Zastava M21
Zastava Arms · Assault Rifle · In Production · 2004
Also known as: M21 S, M21 ABS
Overview
The Zastava M21 is a select-fire assault rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, produced by Zastava Arms since 2004. This Serbian-manufactured firearm reflects the engineering traditions and quality standards of its country of origin, designed to meet the demands of both civilian and professional users in a competitive global marketplace.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3600 g (127.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 3950 g (139.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1000 mm (39.37") |
| Folded Length | 730 mm (28.74") |
| Barrel Length | 460 mm (18.11") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 920 m/s (3018 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1700 J (1254 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1000 m (1094 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 680 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 178 mm (7.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56 NATO — also known as .223 Remington, 5.56mm NATO
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety Selector, Hammer Notch
- Features: Chrome Lined Barrel, Cold Hammer Forged Barrel, Rotating Bolt, Select Fire, Side Folding Stock, Bulged Trunnion 1 5mm, Picatinny Rail Top, Three Cooling Vents Handguard, Nato Standard Ammunition
Variants
- Zastava M21S — Compact
- Zastava M21 ABS — Modernized
- Zastava M21 SBS — Short Barrel
- Zastava M21 BSF — Civilian
Base model
Service history
Operators
- Serbian Armed Forces · adopted 2004 · as M21
- Serbian Police · as M21
Production
Production years: 2004-present
Production numbers not publicly disclosed. Sufficient to partially equip the Serbian Armed Forces, though the M70 remains in parallel service.
Origin
Country of origin: Serbia
Notes
The M21 represents Serbia's transition from Soviet-era 7.62x39mm to NATO-standard 5.56mm while preserving the proven Zastava AK platform. The bulged 1.5mm trunnion inherited from the M70 provides superior receiver rigidity. The M21S is a compact carbine variant with shortened barrel. The M21 ABS (Advanced Buttstock System) variant adds improved ergonomics. Despite adoption, Serbia has not fully transitioned from the M70, with both calibers remaining in parallel service. The rifle competes in the same market as the Polish Beryl and Russian AK-101 as NATO-caliber AK derivatives.
Background
The M21 represents Serbia's attempt to modernize its infantry weapon into NATO compatibility while preserving decades of institutional knowledge with the AK platform. Despite its adoption, Serbia has not fully transitioned from the 7.62x39mm M70, and both calibers remain in parallel service -- a pragmatic acknowledgment that NATO membership, while pursued, has not yet been achieved.