CZ 82 in 9m.m. Makarov

[RWMC]

I am considering using the Presidents "Stimulis Package" check to stimulate growth in my firearm collection. I am looking at buying a CZ 82 in 9mm Makarov. The price ($215) seems right, and I have not read any negative reports on the CZ 82 in this caliber. Would the CZ be a good choice for possible ccw with a decent pancake holster, or is there something bad about them that I do not know about? I will appreciate all feedback. Thanks!

 

[mavracer]

Mine is very accurate and has functioned 100% with ball ammo I have some Silver bear JHP the don't feed that well 2-3 FTF per 50 I pretty much think its somthing with the ammo my MAK does the same thing.so I doo things backward practice with JHP(I bought a 1000) and carry ball.not a big deal 9X18 IMHO doesn't have enough energy to expand and penatrate

 

[FEG]

These are good pistols, but I would recommend the commercial version even higher (CZ-83).

Here are the only drawbacks to the vz-82:

1. It's military surplus. There's really no warranty.
2. It is very close, but it does not have 100% parts compatability with the CZ 83. There is always a chance you might have trouble finding a part ten years from now.
3. All 9x18mm (Makarov) pistols are designed for ball. This means most of the JHPs available, particularly the Russian commercial ammo, have JHPs that mimic FMJ. That is, they have a rounded ogive and small diameter hollowpoint. As mavracer points out, your probably better off carrying FMJ anyway, but some would consider this a drawback. (When I carried a PA-63, it was loaded with S&B ball.)

In case that seems like a lot of negatives, remember that these are pretty much universal to all mil surp 9x18mm pistols: vz-82, PM, PA-63, etc.

 

[Keeterbird]

I love my 82. I have never had a FTF. It is accurate and a lot of fun. It is military, but they seem to be made to last. I have 2 and I love them. Each has passed the 2k mark. I get the ammo for about 160/K. And that is not bad. I got my first one for $199, My second was $215. And that was only about a year later.

The gun is smooth, accurate and fun.
I don't think you will be sorry
Keeterbird

 

[gripper]

Am I having a brain freeze,or is the CZ83 the .380 version of the same???

 

[Marlin 45 carbine]

I had a CZ83 - good pistol, I also now won a Mak - good pistol. I carry hot-loaded FMJ in the mag with a hot-loaded Hornady XTP in the spout.

 

[SouthpawShootr]

You used to be able to find the CZ-83 in 9mm Makarov. I don't think the 9 Mak 83 has been imported for a while now. Used to see them on Gunbroker. The gun was also chambered in .32 ACP. That one's probably not imported anymore either.

 

[Billll]

I got my 82 for $190 as part of a group buy. According to CZ, the 83 comes in .380 as a default, but can be had in .32 or 9Mak by special order. the 83 also is MSRP of nearly twice as much.

 

[loneviking]

I picked up one of these guns about two months ago and although there is a lot to like, I've found three drawbacks:

1. Ammo--I either drive about an hour for ammo, or order online. The ammo is more expensive than a standard 9mm. I can load my own, but there is no saving in cost with this ammo.

2. Holsters--I can only find one hip holster, a 'Double-Triple' brand that fits the gun. I can't find a level 2, 3 or 4 holster for open carry. The gun would be tough to carry concealed as it's a double stack and quite thick. I've decided to get a Uncle Mikes belt pack holster for when I carry it.

3. Parts--such as magazines. I'd like to attend some of the advanced handgun classes, many of which ask that you bring five or six mags. I have two and good luck finding any more! Parts are going to be a problem soon with no more CZ 82's being produced and sites like Makarov.com going out of business.

I wish I could find a little gun identical to the CZ 82 but in 9mm, but so far no luck. The CZ Rami is the closest in size, but the grip and balance doesn't feel the same.

 

[jwr_747]

mags for the CZ83 .380 will work in the 82,most parts from the 83 will work in the 82,parts shouldn't be a problem jwr

 

[camper]

Buy the 82 and with the money saved, order a case of ammo. Had mine out today and the wife did really well with it.

 

[Hoffy]

I like my CZ-82 and it seems to work well for the people I've talked to who carry it. It is an excellent pistol for the money.

I have had some misfire problems with mine when using the cheaper ammo, which is compounded when it is less than 100% clean. It is a sure thing on higher quality ammo right after a cleaning.

 

[xjchief]

I just got one a few weeks ago and couldn't be more pleased with it.

 

[makanut]

I used to own 2 CZ 83's in 9mm mak. Neither would function reliably with JHP. With ball they worked fine.

 

[VirgilCaine]

Anyone try Pow'rball in these?

 

[chrismc410]

I like and carry mine. Silver Bear and Horandy works fine in it.

 

[Mastiff]

I use Pow'rball as the carry load in my CZ-82. No problem with it at all. At that price, I haven't run hundreds of rounds through it, though.
All the carry ammunition I use is Pow'rball. I use the 9x23 Winchester, .45 ACP, 9x19 Luger, and the 9mm Mak. Every handgun but my 1911 is a military surplus pistol.