Skorpion vz. 61 E

Ceska Zbrojovka Uhersky Brod (CZUB) · Submachine Gun · In Production · 2009

Also known as: Sa vz. 61, Samopal vzor 61, Scorpion

Overview

The Skorpion vz. 61 E is the modern-production version of the Czechoslovak vz. 61 Skorpion, a compact select-fire submachine gun (machine pistol) chambered in .32 ACP (7.65x17mm Browning). Built by Ceska Zbrojovka Uhersky Brod, it retains the original blowback, open-bolt action with an integral rate-reducing mechanism in the grip that tames the otherwise high 850 rpm cyclic rate, along with the signature single-strut folding wire stock and 10- or 20-round curved box magazines. Small enough to be carried in a holster yet capable of automatic fire, it was designed for vehicle crews, special forces, and security personnel.

Specifications

Weight (empty)1280 g (45.2 oz)
Overall Length517 mm (20.35")
Folded Length270 mm (10.63")
Barrel Length115 mm (4.53")
Action TypeBlowback
Firing MechanismOpen Bolt
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity20 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity320 m/s (1050 fps)
Muzzle Energy243 J (179 ft·lbf)
Effective Range25 m (27 yd)
Maximum Range150 m (164 yd)
Rate of Fire850 rpm
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Number of Grooves6
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialSteel
FinishPhosphate

Calibers

Features

Variants

Base model

Skorpion-Vz-61

Service history

Operators

Conflicts

Production

Production years: 2009-present

Modern-production run; the original vz. 61 was manufactured 1961-1979 in large numbers before CZUB resumed production.

Origin

Country of origin: Czech Republic

Designer: Miroslav Rybar

Notes

The 'E' designation denotes the current-production model reintroduced by CZUB (production resumed 2009) after the original 1961-1979 run. The rate-reducer in the pistol grip delays the bolt to keep the compact weapon controllable in full-auto.

Background

The Skorpion's rate-reducing device is hidden inside the pistol grip: a spring-loaded weight that catches the bolt and briefly delays it on each cycle, cutting the felt cyclic rate so a gun small enough to fire one-handed does not empty its magazine uncontrollably.