M85 vs CZ-527

[txgunsuscg]

So I was looking at getting a little scout type rifle in 7.62 (probably 7.62x39, but I'm open). I'm not really a bolt action aficionado, but I like the couple I have, so I was looking to get an inexpensive one that I could just take to the range and enjoy. I found a CZ 527 for around $650, and the CZs I have seen are beautiful. Then I found a Zastava M85 for $499. Zastava is supposed to make good guns, and it is $150 cheaper than the CZ....

Anyone with experience with either gun is appreciated! Thanks in advance!

 

[wnycollector]

This thread may be helpful http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=654851 Pay special attention to post #21.

 

[viking499]

I just picked up the CZ, but have not had a chance to do any type of report yet. But, I am not worried because it is a CZ. I would spend the extra money........

 

[HankC]

CZ has its share of problems, there were reports on CZ527 for poor accuracy and need high scope mounts to clear the scope. I have a Rem 799 Mini Mauser (Deluxe version of M85) and it is accurate. CZ is nice but it is not $200 better than a M85 mini Mauser. Yes, I would buy a CZ if the price difference is within $50 but not $200 more expensive! Some had problem with M85 extractor, I had one broke on mine, cost me $25 to replace it. The factory extractor had thin tip and broke, the replacement one is much more robust. I suspect there maybe a bad batch since there are so many mini Mausers sold over the years by several vendors but not many reports on extractor problems. Most known "problem" of Mini mausers is small bolt knob but it is a matter of taste and will get used to it. Action is not as smooth as full size mauser action but it will get better. Trigger is adjustable and can be set pretty low for a hunting rifle.

 

[PlusP]

The cz single set trigger is worth the extra money to me ...my 527 carbine is in 223 rem

 

[viking499]

I am sure every model has its share of problems, but I have seen a lot more positives about the CZ than I have negatives. The Mausers have been closer to even.

For $200, I would still take the CZ over the other. I have medium rings on mine and mounted a 3-9x40 with out any problems.

 

[TOU]

CZ has its share of problems, there were reports on CZ527 for poor accuracy and need high scope mounts to clear the scope.

I will grant you the need for higher rings. (You can live with it like I do, or adjust the bolt...I have on a few.) However, I have been shooting 527 variations for a couple of decades. I have personally owned more than a couple of dozen and currently own one in EVERY caliber and configuration that they make and a few that are wildcats...and I have almost never heard this. The only thing that comes close is a few that needed some slight bedding touches...no big deal. (This is probably more due to the stocks changing a bit after they were finished than anything.) Actually, consistent accuracy is exactly what CZ's are known for and why people will spend the increased prices on them. They also really maintain their value.

I will also say, that I have shot small calibers in nearly every make and configuration including M85's and finally settled on CZ's. Furthermore, even though they have increased in price by 40-50% in the past 5-6 years, I still don't waste time or money buying anything else anymore. When it comes to small calibers they are one of the foremost actions to build small caliber wildcats on...there is a reason for that. And they have also not had to change importers, names etc in order to keep selling rifles; I know exactly where to go if I ever need warranty work. (I never have.)

Finally, I personally believe the CZ 527's are not only worth $200 more than an M85, I would spend $300-$400 and feel I still got my moneys worth. (The completely adjustable set trigger alone is technology likely worth $200 by itself.) I believe they are and have been one of the biggest bangs for the buck out there. I will grant you though that CZ does need to be careful in the future though as their prices rise, as I believe that they are getting dangerously close to the max that the market will bare for their rifles. Much higher and they will be in semi-custom territory...especially if Cooper finally gets their act together and releases a repeater.

The M85's are beautiful rifles especially for the money...but they are NO CZ.

"CZ: You can pay more, you can pay less...but you can't buy more for less."

 

[TOU]

Here is an interesting link for you from just a few topics down...

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=654851

I have NEVER read similar of CZ's.

 

[Furncliff]

The CZ will spoil you. I've had an occasion to use the gunsmiths at CZUSA (for work on a CZ82). They get a 5 star rating from me.

 

[greyling22]

I've got the zastava in 223, and I don't recommend it to anyone. nice enough little rifle, blueing is excellent, trigger adjusts nicely, and the gun is 1" or better with handloads.

BUT importation is erratic, parts and customer service are non-existent, the action is very rough, the bolt sloppy, and I had to work the magazine follower over pretty heavily to get it to load and feed right. Some of that can be laid at the feet of buying a barreled action and making my own stock, but not all. I've had terrible luck scoping it. The handle keeps hitting the bell. I'm running warne high or extra high rings.

I vote for the cz or a savage.