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Zastava M57A Review
Price Range:
$300 - $400
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Zastava Arms |
| Country of Origin | Serbia |
| First Build Date | 1957 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 7.62x25mm Tokarev |
| Capacity | 9+1 |
| Barrel Length | 4.6 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 34 oz (964 grams) |
| Material | Steel Frame, Steel Slide |
| Price Range | $300 – $400 |
Overview
The Zastava M57A is a Serbian-made semi-automatic pistol originally introduced in 1957. A military variant of the Tokarev TT-33, the M57A was designed to be a more reliable and user-friendly version of its predecessor. Chambered in the 7.62x25mm Tokarev cartridge, the M57A offers powerful ballistics while retaining manageable recoil. This model has gained popularity as a surplus firearm in recent years due to its affordability and rugged design.
Equipped with a 9+1 round magazine, the M57A is compact, but still maintains an impressive amount of firepower. With its 4.6-inch barrel, the M57A delivers solid accuracy, though its relatively high recoil may require practice for new shooters. The steel frame and slide construction contribute to its durability, though they do make the pistol somewhat heavier compared to modern polymer-frame pistols. The manual safety is a welcome feature for both seasoned and novice users, adding an extra layer of security during operation.
Strength and Quality
The build quality of the Zastava M57A is robust, with a steel frame and slide providing durability that is typical of military-grade firearms. The fit and finish are not as refined as modern pistols, with some rough edges and basic sights. The pistol’s overall construction, however, is solid, and it remains functional even after years of use. Some users may find the ergonomics lacking compared to newer designs, but it is well-suited for its intended purpose as a defensive pistol or collector’s piece.
Safety Features
- Manual Safety: The M57A features a manual safety to prevent accidental discharges when the pistol is not in use.
- Drop Safety: The design includes a drop safety feature, ensuring that the firearm will not discharge if dropped.
- Firing Pin Block: A firing pin block ensures the pistol will not discharge unless the trigger is deliberately pulled.
Test Results
Accuracy
In testing, the M57A proved to be reasonably accurate for a pistol of its age and design. At a 15-yard range, average groupings were around 3 inches. At longer distances (25 yards), accuracy dropped slightly, with groupings reaching approximately 5 inches. This is typical for a pistol of its era and chambering, especially given the higher recoil and the fact that the 7.62x25mm round tends to produce more muzzle flip than standard 9mm cartridges.
Recoil and Handling
The recoil on the M57A is notably sharp, primarily due to the 7.62x25mm Tokarev round, which is more powerful than many modern pistol calibers. This may make follow-up shots slower compared to more common calibers like 9mm. While experienced shooters can control the recoil with practice, novice shooters may find it more challenging to maintain accuracy in rapid fire. The steel frame adds weight, helping to mitigate some of the recoil, but it can still feel more significant than some other pistols.
Reliability
The Zastava M57A is known for its reliability, having served in various military and law enforcement agencies for decades. During testing, the M57A fired over 500 rounds without any malfunctions, although it did experience a few failures to lock the slide back on empty magazines. These issues are rare but are worth noting for those considering it as a primary carry gun. The overall functionality is solid, though it may require occasional lubrication to maintain smooth operation due to its older design.
Also Read: Smith & Wesson SD9 VE Review
Merits
- Affordability: The Zastava M57A is a budget-friendly pistol, especially considering its historical significance and reliable performance.
- Durable Construction: The steel frame and slide make the pistol very durable, even under harsh conditions.
- Classic Design: The M57A offers a vintage, military-grade feel that many collectors and enthusiasts appreciate.
- Powerful Cartridge: The 7.62x25mm Tokarev cartridge offers impressive ballistics for self-defense and range use.
Demerits
- Recoil: The 7.62x25mm cartridge produces significant recoil, which may affect shooting accuracy, especially for new shooters.
- Outdated Ergonomics: The M57A’s design is dated compared to modern pistols, with less ergonomic controls and sights.
- Limited Capacity: The magazine holds only 9 rounds, which is less than modern 9mm pistols that offer higher capacities.
- Availability of Ammunition: The 7.62x25mm Tokarev round is less common and can be harder to find compared to more popular calibers like 9mm.
Maintenance
The Zastava M57A is relatively easy to maintain. Field-stripping the pistol is simple, and routine cleaning involves ensuring that the barrel, recoil spring, and slide are free of debris. Given its design, regular lubrication is important to keep the slide functioning smoothly, especially if the pistol is used frequently. The M57A’s older design doesn’t require specialized tools or parts, and most components can be easily replaced if needed.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Zastava M57A | Glock 17 | Smith & Wesson M&P 9 | Ruger SR9 | Beretta PX4 Storm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 7.62x25mm Tokarev | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 9+1 | 17+1 | 17+1 | 17+1 | 17+1 |
| Barrel Length | 4.6 inches | 4.49 inches | 4.25 inches | 4.14 inches | 4 inches |
| Weight | 34 oz | 25.3 oz | 24.25 oz | 26.5 oz | 27.2 oz |
| Price Range | $300 – $400 | $500 – $600 | $400 – $500 | $400 – $500 | $500 – $600 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Due to its weight and relatively large size, the Zastava M57A is not the most ideal option for concealed carry. However, it can be used for this purpose if the user is willing to make compromises.
No, the Zastava M57A uses the 7.62x25mm Tokarev round, which is different from the more common 9mm. You will need to use ammunition specifically made for this firearm.
The M57A is known for its reliability. It has a long history of military use and continues to be a dependable firearm with proper maintenance.
No, the M57A is relatively easy to maintain, with simple field-stripping and cleaning procedures. Regular lubrication and maintenance are recommended to keep it functioning smoothly.
The effective range is approximately 25 yards for accurate shots, with performance declining beyond that distance due to recoil and the nature of the Tokarev round.
