Zastava Model 70

Posted May 19, 2023

The Zastava Model 70 is a true classic. Manufactured in Yugoslavia and later Serbia, the Model 70 is a variation of the popular SKS-45 (“Semi-Automatic Carbine 45” in Russian) rifle. It is known for its reliability and its history has been intertwined with the Yugoslavian and Serbian people since its introduction in 1972.

The Zastava Model 70 is a semi-automatic rifle in 7.62x39mm caliber. It is based off the design of the SKS-45, which was manufactured in the Soviet Union during and after World War II. The Model 70 has several design and function differences from its original ancestor, making it a better choice for hunting, target shooting, and self-defense.

The Zastava Model 70 is a rugged and dependable rifle, and its design allows it to remain reliable and accurate while firing the 7.62x39mm cartridge. The rifle is made from a heavy-duty, black-painted steel receiver with a milled top cover and a black polymer stock. This design is integral in the rifle’s capability to take to hard use with minimal wear and tear. It also helps the Model 70 to remain well balanced and comfortable to carry and shoot.

The Model 70 is also known for its ruggedness and reliability. The rifle is easy to maintain and clean, and its parts are resistant to corrosion from moisture and dirt which can be common in wet and muddy conditions. The proven design of the Model 70 is also capable of withstanding a considerable amount of hard use, in both military and civilian contexts. The safety and trigger are both easy to use, helping to ensure a safe and controlled firing experience. Much like its SKS-45 ancestor, the Model 70 features a ten-round capacity fixed magazine.

The Zastava Model 70 is also a relatively accurate rifle, due in part to its reliable gas port system. The barrel is chrome lined, and it features four groove rifling with a 1:10 twist rate, which allows it to accurately shoot heavier bullets. The Model 70 also features adjustable iron sights as well as a wider variety of mounts for higher-end optics.

With a street price of around $500, the Zastava Model 70 is an affordable, reliable, and accurate basic rifle with a great history. It is a great choice for the budget-conscious shooter who wants a reliable, classic rifle. It is well suited for hunting, target shooting, and some forms of competitive shooting. It is also an excellent choice for those who live in states with restrictive hunting laws, as it allows you to enjoy hunting without having to buy a more expensive, restricted rifle.

For those who desire a more tactical and modern rifle, the Zastava Model 70 is, unfortunately, an unsuitable choice. Its inability to accept larger capacity magazines and its lack of ergonomic features make it less than ideal for tactical or especially competitive use.

In conclusion, the Zastava Model 70 is a reliable and dependable rifle at an affordable price. It is well suited for hunting and target shooting, and it has a great history. It is not ideal for tactical or competitive use, however, as it lacks the ergonomics and features to make it suitable for those purposes. That said, the Model 70 is an excellent choice for the budget-minded shooter who wants a classic, reliable rifle for more general shooting tasks.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Reliable and durable construction

Reasonably priced

Good manual safety

Accurate shooting

Available in several caliber sizes

Available with open sights and mounting rails for optics

Low recoil

Cons:

Hammer spring is somewhat heavy to pull back

Heavy trigger pull

Plastic component parts like trigger and magazine

Not as easy to mount optics on the factory rails

Limited availability of parts & accessories

Who Should Buy

The Zastava Model 70 is a military-style assault rifle, so it should only be purchased by someone who has the proper training and licensing to do so and is familiar with the laws in their relevant jurisdiction when it comes to owning or using firearms. People who do not have the proper training or licensing to possess and use firearms should not attempt to purchase this rifle.

Comparisons

Zastava Model 70	Similar 1	Similar 2	Similar 3

Caliber: 7.62x39mm	Caliber: 7.62x39mm	Caliber: 5.56x45mm	Caliber: 5.56x45mm
Muzzle Thread: M14x1LH	Muzzle Thread: M14x1LH	Muzzle Thread: M16x1LH	Muzzle Thread: M16x1LH
Capacity: 10 Rounds	Capacity: 30 Rounds	Capacity: 30 Rounds	Capacity: 20 Rounds
Barrel Length: 16.25 in	Barrel Length: 16.25 in	Barrel Length: 16 in	Barrel Length: 16 in
Weight: 8.8 lbs	Weight: 6 lbs	Weight: 6 lbs	Weight: 6.6 lbs

Features / Specs

•Caliber: 7.62x39mm

•Action: Short-Stroke Gas-Delayed Blowback

•Barrel Length: 19.7 inches

•Overall Length: 37.8 inches

•Weight: 8.3 pounds

•Magazine Capacity: 5, 10, or 30 rounds

•Sights: Adjustable Notch Rear, Fixed Post Front

Popular Accessories

The most popular accessories for the Zastava Model 70 include replacement magazines, recoil pads, scope mounts, trigger guards, and slings.

Accuracy

The Zastava Model 70 is one of the most popular guns in history, and for good reason - its accuracy is renowned. Its cold-forged steel barrel and the long double action trigger pull are features that give it an extremely tight shot grouping and low recoil.

The Zastava Model 70 has been known to deliver impressive accuracy even when firing at long distances. With its precise and well-made barrel, the Model 70 has been capable of delivering its full potential for those shooting .22LR rounds and 9mm Luger rounds alike, with maximum accuracy for targets at up to 100 yards away, and even more on experienced shooters. Experienced shooters have been able to deliver accurate shots beyond the 100 yard mark given the right conditions.

To top all this off, the Zastava Model 70 is an inexpensive and reliable home-defense pistol. So, if you’re looking for economical and accurate means of defending your home or engaging in target sports, the Zastava Model 70 is a weapon to consider.