CZ 38
Česká zbrojovka Strakonice · Pistol · Discontinued · 1938
Also known as: CZ vz. 38, ČZ vz. 38, Pistole 39(t), vz. 38
Overview
The CZ 38 is a Czechoslovak blowback-operated semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 ACP. Designed by František Myška at Česká zbrojovka Strakonice and adopted in 1938 as the vz. 38, it was intended to replace the vz. 24 with a simpler, safer service sidearm. Its double-action-only mechanism allowed quick first-shot readiness but the very heavy trigger pull severely degraded practical accuracy. A hinged bushing at the muzzle let the barrel pivot upward for tool-free field stripping. Only around 10,000 were built before the German occupation halted Czechoslovak deliveries, after which most production was absorbed by Nazi police and security organizations.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 921 g (32.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 198 mm (7.80") |
| Barrel Length | 120 mm (4.72") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Only |
| Magazine Capacity | 9 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 300 m/s (984 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 277 J (204 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .380 ACP · primary — also known as .380 Auto, 9x17mm, 9mm Kurz, 9mm Short, 9mm Browning Short
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Double Action Only Trigger
- Features: Hinged Barrel For Field Stripping, Single Stack Magazine, Exposed Hammer
Service history
Operators
- Czechoslovak Army · adopted 1938 · as vz. 38
- Nazi Germany police and security forces · adopted 1939 · as Pistole 39(t)
- Bulgarian Army · adopted 1939
Conflicts
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Estimated total produced: 10,000 · Production years: 1938-1939
Approximately 10,000 produced; Czechoslovak military deliveries were pre-empted by the German occupation in 1939, and most output went to Nazi police and security forces. Manufacture ceased by 1945 and was never revived.
Origin
Country of origin: Czech Republic
Designer: František Myška
Discontinued: 1945
Notes
Widely regarded as overly large and heavy for the modest .380 ACP cartridge it fired, with a double-action-only trigger too heavy for accurate shooting. Designated Pistole 39(t) in German service.
Background
The CZ 38 was ordered in large numbers by the Czechoslovak Army on the eve of World War II, but Germany occupied Czechoslovakia before any pistols could be issued to Czech troops. The guns that had been built were diverted into German service as the Pistole 39(t).