The CZ 75 is said to be the most commonly used pistol by military and police forces worldwide. It’s a classic in handgun design and, despite being nearly 50 years old, remains a favorite among firearm enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Originating from the Czech Republic during the Soviet era, this pistol is known for its exceptional ergonomics, smooth double-action/single-action trigger, and robust construction.

Its design, influenced by the Browning Hi-Power and Walther P38, combines reliability with a refined feel. Despite being overshadowed by more modern pistols, the CZ 75 continues to be a compelling choice for competitive shooting and collectors.

Historical Background

A Soviet Block Exception

The CZ 75, known for its association with the Soviet Union’s Spetsnaz, remains a standout firearm and holds a unique place in firearms history. There is a good reason the Spetsnaz has chosen to utilize the pistol. It is reliable. The simple fact is when you are using a handgun in a tense situation, you want to pull the trigger and hear it go “bang” every time. The CZ is known for this, as evidenced by numerous “torture test” videos on the internet. It is like a Glock in that respect.

Here are some nations that utilize the pistol for military and law enforcement purposes:

Czech Republic: The Czech military and police forces have used the CZ 75 extensively, as it is a product of the country’s own arms industry.

Slovakia: After the split of Czechoslovakia, the Slovak military and law enforcement agencies continued to use the CZ 75 due to its proven track record.

Poland: Polish military and police units have utilized the CZ 75 and its variants, appreciating its reliability and performance.

Greece: The Hellenic Army (Greece) has used the CZ 75, particularly in their special forces and other select units.

Turkey: The Turkish military and police forces have been known to use CZ 75 pistols, particularly among specialized units.

Israel: The Israeli security forces, including some elite units, have been known to use the CZ 75 for its reliability and ease of maintenance.

United States: While not officially adopted by the U.S. military, various law enforcement agencies and some military personnel have used the CZ 75 due to personal preference.

India: Some Indian law enforcement units and military personnel have utilized the CZ 75, especially within specialized units.

CZ 75 compact
A CZ 75 compact.

Unlike many Soviet-block weapons, the CZ 75 showcases a level of refinement that sets it apart. In this review, we’ll dive into what makes the CZ 75 a cherished piece for enthusiasts and a reliable tool for practical use.

During the Soviet era, most Eastern Bloc countries had limited control over their firearm manufacturing. However, Czechoslovakia managed to retain some autonomy, allowing them to produce higher-quality weapons like the CZ 75. Drawing design elements from both the Browning Hi-Power and the Walther P38, the CZ 75 combines the best features of these two classics.

Design and Features

The CZ 75 features a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system and ergonomic design. This combination offers a smooth trigger pull and comfortable handling, making it a favorite among shooters.

Modern Relevance

Competition and Range Use

While the CZ 75 might be considered outdated by some standards—lacking a light rail and featuring the DA/SA system that has fallen out of favor—it still excels in certain areas. Its weight and robust construction make it ideal for competition shooting and general range use.

Concealed Carry Considerations

For those who appreciate a retro aesthetic, the CZ 75 can serve as a stylish concealed carry option. Despite being heavier than modern polymer-framed pistols (around 2.5 lbs), it offers excellent reliability and a unique charm. Whether you prefer inside-the-waistband (IWB), appendix IWB, or outside-the-waistband (OWB) carry, the CZ 75 accommodates (at a total length of a little over 8 inches) various carrying styles.

Magazine and Reloading

Standard and Extended Magazines

The CZ 75 comes with a standard 16-round magazine, but you can also find 17-round magazines with a slightly longer base pad. For competitive shooting, 26-round magazines are available, fitting within the USPSA 170mm category. These magazines are produced by Mec-Gar, the original equipment manufacturer for CZ, offering affordable and reliable options.

Magwell Design

One area where the CZ 75 shows its age is the magwell. With no flaring, reloads can be less than forgiving if not executed perfectly. However, for many, this is a minor drawback, given the pistol’s overall performance.

Ergonomics and Grip

Comfortable and Customizable

Despite being designed in the late ’60s and early ’70s, the CZ 75 offers excellent ergonomics. The grip feels natural, and while it lacks modularity, the removable grip panels allow for some customization. You can switch out the grips to change the texture and feel, enhancing your shooting experience.

Beavertail Design

The beavertail on the CZ 75 is particularly well-designed, allowing for a high grip without the risk of slide bite. This feature contributes to the pistol’s comfortable handling, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions.

Sights and Aftermarket Options

Standard Sights

The CZ 75’s sights have not seen significant updates since its introduction. They are standard three-dot sights, somewhat small by modern standards but still functional. While options for aftermarket sights are limited, CZ Custom Shop and Dawson Precision offer some alternatives.

Red Dot Compatibility

Zelensky CZ 75
This custom-built, one-of-a-kind “Order of the White Lion” CZ 75 was recently gifted to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky by Czech President Petr Pavel during an official visit to Prague.

The CZ 75 does not have a factory red dot mounting option, but custom shops can modify the pistol for this feature. For those interested in adding a red dot, options like the Holosun 507K or the Trijicon RMRcc are compatible with custom mounts.

Controls and Functionality

Safety Mechanisms

The CZ 75 features a thumb safety designed for cocked and locked carry, similar to a 1911. The safety is easy to access and operate, providing a positive feel without the risk of accidental engagement. You can run the CZ 75 in single-action only or in DA/SA mode by manually decocking the hammer.

Magazine Release and Slide Stop

The magazine release is a standard push-button style and reversible for left-handed shooters. However, reaching the mag release without adjusting your grip can be challenging for those with average-sized hands. The slide stop is similarly positioned, requiring the support hand thumb to drop the slide using the Vickers method, a nod to its retro design.

Trigger Performance

Smooth and Consistent

The CZ 75’s trigger is one of its standout features. The double-action pull is smooth and consistent, breaking cleanly despite its heavier weight. The single-action trigger offers a short reset and a clean break, with a slight amount of take-up and minimal creep. While not perfect, the trigger is impressive for a firearm of its era.

Maintenance and Disassembly

Simple and Straightforward

Maintaining the CZ 75 is straightforward, thanks to its simple disassembly process. After ensuring the pistol is unloaded, align the index marks on the slide and frame, and use a pen or punch to remove the slide stop. This allows the slide to come off, providing access to the barrel and recoil spring for cleaning. Reassembly is just as easy, reversing the steps taken to disassemble the pistol.

Aesthetics and Appeal

Classic Design

CZ 75 4
A detailed view of a CZ 75 with custom wooden grips and engraved slide, blending functionality with elegance. The inscriptions on the slide add a touch of historical significance to the firearm. (CZ Defence)
Desert Rat
On the grip of this particular pistol, we see the motif of a Czechoslovak flag and quite a unique image on the base plate: a desert rat, the nickname of Allied soldiers fighting in North Africa during the siege of Tobruk (21 October 1941 to 10 December 1941). This pistol recently sold at auction for over $200,000.

The CZ 75’s design is undeniably attractive. Its proportions are balanced, and it exudes a retro charm that appeals to many shooters. Holding the CZ 75 evokes images of Cold War espionage and classic firearm craftsmanship.

Range Performance

Smooth Shooter

On the range, the CZ 75 performs exceptionally well. Its recoil impulse is smooth, and the heavy frame helps manage muzzle flip. This makes it a joy to shoot, providing a stable and controllable platform for both novice and experienced shooters.

Personal Preference

Despite its weight, the CZ 75 remains a favored choice for many. Its reliability, accuracy, and classic design make it a valuable addition to any firearm collection. While I might not carry it daily due to its heft, it certainly holds a special place in my rotation, especially when I feel like embracing a bit of nostalgia.

Final Verdict

The CZ 75 is more than just a relic from the past. It represents a time when firearms were built with precision and care, offering a blend of functionality and style that remains relevant today.

Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a range enthusiast, or someone who appreciates a good concealed carry option with a retro vibe, the CZ 75 is worth your consideration. Its blend of historical significance, ergonomic design, and reliable performance makes it a firearm that stands the test of time.

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Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.