AK with a real bolt catch | Zastava M70 A

Published on May 26, 2019
Duration: 5:57

This guide details the operation of the unique factory bolt hold open mechanism on the Zastava M70 A, an early Yugoslavian AK variant. It highlights how a modified magazine follower interacts with an integrated receiver device to lock the bolt back on an empty magazine, facilitating faster reloads. The demonstration emphasizes the practical application of this feature during live fire at a shooting range.

Quick Summary

The Zastava M70 A features a unique factory bolt hold open mechanism. This system requires a specially modified magazine follower to engage an integrated receiver device, locking the bolt rearward on an empty magazine for faster reloads. This design, while effective, was likely discontinued due to production complexity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Zastava M70 A
  2. 01:17Bolt Hold Open Mechanism Explained
  3. 02:44Range Demonstration
  4. 03:52Design Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main advantage of the Zastava M70 A's bolt hold open feature?

The primary advantage is the ability to lock the bolt to the rear on an empty magazine, allowing for potentially faster and more efficient reloads compared to standard AK-47s where the bolt closes on an empty chamber.

What is required for the Zastava M70 A's bolt hold open to function?

It requires a specific receiver modification, including an external screw, and specially modified magazines with a unique follower cut to engage the bolt catch mechanism.

Why might the bolt hold open feature have been discontinued on later AK variants?

The feature likely increased production complexity and cost. Simpler designs were favored for mass production, even if it meant sacrificing some reloading efficiency.

How does the bolt hold open mechanism work on the Zastava M70 A?

When the last round is fired, the follower of a modified magazine pushes up on an internal bolt catch device, locking the bolt in the rearward position.

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