Zastava EZ-9 Compact: Is This a Serbian SIG?

Published on November 13, 2019
Duration: 7:13

This review of the Zastava EZ-9 Compact, presented by an experienced TFB TV reviewer, offers a critical look at this Serbian-made pistol. While acknowledging Zastava's historical significance and the EZ-9's potential as a military-style firearm, the assessment highlights significant drawbacks in fit, finish, ergonomics, and reliability with certain ammunition types, ultimately questioning its value proposition at its price point.

Quick Summary

The Zastava EZ-9 Compact is a Serbian-made, DA/SA hammer-fired pistol that modernizes the CZ 999 design with influences from Sig Sauer and Walther. While it offers a 15+1 capacity and a decent single-action trigger, reviewers noted issues with its 'spongy' decocker/slide release, stiff magazine release, and rough fit/finish. Reliability concerns arose with steel-cased ammunition, and its $569.99 street price makes its value proposition debatable against competitors.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Zastava History
  2. 00:43EZ-9 Compact Overview
  3. 01:17Controls and Ergonomics
  4. 02:35Ergonomic Issues and Rail
  5. 03:11Fit, Finish, and Price
  6. 03:59Reliability and Shooting Characteristics
  7. 05:18Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Zastava EZ-9 Compact?

The Zastava EZ-9 Compact is a DA/SA hammer-fired pistol from Serbia, presented as a modernized version of the CZ 999. It blends design elements from the Sig P226 and Walther P88, featuring an alloy frame and a 15+1 round capacity.

How does the Zastava EZ-9 Compact perform with different ammunition?

The EZ-9 Compact performed well with brass-cased Ventura Munitions. However, it experienced multiple light primer strikes when using Wolf steel-cased ammunition, suggesting potential reliability issues with certain ammo types.

What are the ergonomic concerns with the Zastava EZ-9 Compact?

Reviewers noted a stiff and difficult magazine release due to chunky grip panels. The ambidextrous slide release/decocker lever felt 'spongy' and 'vague,' and the accessory rail is rounded like older Sig rails, not a standard Picatinny.

Is the Zastava EZ-9 Compact a good value for its price?

With a street price around $569.99, the EZ-9 Compact enters Glock territory. Its perceived 'lackluster' fit and finish, along with reliability concerns, make its value proposition questionable compared to other options at this price point.

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