AK-47
Zastava M70 vs. AK-47: Key Differences
Mar
Table of contents
The Zastava M70 is one of the most popular AK-47 versions, known for being durable, accurate, and having a unique Yugoslavian design. Whether you’re a collector, an AK fan, or want a dependable rifle, the Zastava M70 offers much. Its strong build easily handles harsh conditions, and the gun has unique features like a heavy-duty receiver, reinforced parts, and comfortable wood or polymer furniture. This guide covers its main features, comparisons, and accessories and explains why it stands out from other AK rifles, showing its reliability for civilian and military use.
What is the Zastava M70?
The Zastava M70 is a Yugoslavian/Serbian-made AK variant manufactured by Zastava Arms. It has been widely used in military conflicts and is favored for robustness. Unlike many AK-47 variants, the M70 features a thicker 1.5mm stamped receiver, a bulged trunnion, and a reinforced front end, making it one of the most durable AK rifles on the market. Additionally, the M70 is celebrated for its exceptional performance under harsh conditions, easily resisting damage from prolonged firing sessions and environmental factors. Its distinctive Yugoslavian design and reputation for dependability make it highly sought after by collectors and shooters alike.
Key Features of the Zastava M70:
- 1.5mm stamped receiver (thicker than standard AKs)
- Bulged trunnion for added durability
- Non-chrome-lined barrel with a high-quality cold hammer-forged design
- Yugoslavian-style gas system for improved reliability
- Bolt hold-open notch on the safety selector
- Heavy-duty front handguard
- Grenade-launcher sight (on some models)
- Zastava’s traditional wood or polymer furniture
Zastava M70 vs. Standard AK-47
While the Zastava M70 follows the traditional AK design, several distinctions set it apart.
Differences Between the Zastava M70 and Standard AK-47:
| Feature | Zastava M70 | Standard AK-47 |
|---|---|---|
| Receiver | 1.5mm stamped, bulged trunnion | 1mm stamped or milled |
| Barrel | Cold hammer-forged, not chrome-lined | Chrome-lined |
| Stock Design | Slightly different lengths & setup | Standard wood/polymer |
| Handguard | Yugoslavian pattern | Standard AKM design |
| Gas System | Slightly different length & setup | Standard AK gas system |
| Weight | Slightly heavier due to the thicker receiver | Lighter standard build |
Strength and Durability
The Zastava M70 is often considered more substantial than a regular AK-47 due to its reinforced receiver and bulged trunnion. This makes it ideal for prolonged use and high-stress environments. However, this added strength comes at the cost of additional weight, making it slightly heavier than a standard AK-47.
Zastava M70 Accessories and Customization
A significant benefit of the Zastava M70 is its customization potential. With a range of aftermarket parts, you can tailor your rifle for a tactical setup and improved ergon. A significant benefit of the Zastava M70 is its customization potential. With a range of aftermarket parts, you can tailor your rifle for a tactical setup, improved ergonomics, or a classic AK aesthetic. The rifle’s versatile platform supports various modifications, from adjustable stocks and enhanced trigger groups to specialized muzzle brakes and compensators, allowing shooters to optimize performance, accuracy, recoil management, and comfort according to personal preferences or specific use cases.
Popular Zastava M70 Accessories:
Zastava M70 Tactical Upgrades: For a modern tactical setup, adding a red dot sight, light, or foregrip can enhance the rifle’s usability, ergonomics, or classic AK aesthetic.
Zastava M70 Scope Mount: Mounting optics are made easy with side rail mounts designed for the M70. Many users opt for RS Regulate or Midwest Industries mounts.
Zastava M70 Furniture: Upgrading the stock, handguard, and pistol grip is common. Brands like Magpul and Zastava’s OEM options offer solid choices.
Zastava M70 Sling Mount: Securing your rifle, whether using a QD sling mount or a traditional AK-style sling, is crucial for comfort and readiness.
Popular Zastava M70 Accessories:
- Zastava M70 Scope Mount: Mounting optics are made easy with side rail mounts designed for the M70. Many users opt for RS Regulate or Midwest Industries mounts.
- Zastava M70 Furniture: Upgrading the stock, handguard, and pistol grip is common. Brands like Magpul and Zastava’s OEM options offer solid choices.
- Zastava M70 Sling Mount: Securing your rifle, whether using a QD sling mount or a traditional AK-style sling, is crucial for comfort and readiness.
- Zastava M70 Tactical Upgrades: For a modern tactical setup, adding a red dot sight, light, or foregrip can enhance the rifle’s usability.
Zastava M70 Review: Performance and Reliability
Many AK enthusiasts praise the Zastava ZPAP M70 for its durability, smooth action, and reliability. Its rugged build easily withstands heavy use in harsh environments, making it a favored choice among serious shooters and collectors. Additionally, the ZPAP M70’s reinforced components enhance accuracy, stability, and reduced recoil, contributing to better shooting performance.
Pros:
✔ Robust, military-grade construction
✔ Highly reliable gas system
✔ Easy to maintain
✔ Cold hammer-forged barrel for longevity
✔ Accepts standard AK magazines
Cons:
✖ Slightly heavier than standard AKs
✖ No chrome-lining on the barrel (requires more cleaning)
✖ Some proprietary parts make modifications trickier
Zastava M70 for Sale and Price Considerations
The price of a Zastava M70 rifle can vary based on factors such as the specific model, condition, included accessories, and any custom modifications. On average, a new, higher-end variant like the Zastava M70 ZPAP typically costs between $1,100 and $1,600. Premium finishes, upgraded furniture, optics-ready configurations, and additional accessories like slings, optics, or extra magazines often push the price toward the higher end of this range.
Always consider shopping from established firearm retailers such as AR15 Discounts. Doing so guarantees you’ll receive an authentic, high-quality rifle at competitive pricing, often coupled with strong customer support, warranty coverage, and a straightforward purchasing experience.
Zastava M70 FAQs
The Zastava M70 is a Yugoslavian/Serbian-made AK variant featuring a reinforced design. Unlike standard AK-47 rifles, it includes a thicker 1.5mm stamped receiver, a bulged front trunnion for increased rigidity, and reinforced front-end components. These enhancements significantly boost durability, making it particularly robust under harsh conditions and extended use compared to standard AK rifles.
Is it more substantial than a regular AK-47?
It is stronger and more durable due to specific design enhancements, including its thicker 1.5mm stamped receiver and a bulged trunnion. These improvements increase structural integrity, allowing it to withstand heavy use and environmental stresses more effectively than standard AK-47 models.
Can standard AK-47 parts be used on this rifle?
Many components, such as triggers, internal fire control parts, and magazines, are interchangeable with standard AK-47 parts. However, due to unique design features and dimensions, furniture (stocks, handguards, pistol grips) and specific gas system components typically require compatibility with Yugoslavian/Serbian pattern parts.
Does it have a chrome-lined barrel like most AK-47 rifles?
No, this rifle does not have a chrome-lined barrel. Instead, it uses a cold hammer-forged barrel crafted from high-quality steel. While chrome lining is beneficial for corrosion resistance, the cold hammer-forged barrel design offers excellent durability, accuracy, and long-term reliability without compromising performance.
How accurate is this rifle compared to other AK-47 rifles?
The accuracy of this particular AK variant is notably above average, primarily due to its high-quality cold hammer-forged barrel and reinforced receiver, which reduces barrel vibration and improves stability. Shooters often report tighter shot groupings and improved consistency compared to many standard AK-47 rifles.
Is it heavier than a standard AK-47?
This rifle is slightly heavier than standard AK-47 variants due to the thicker receiver and reinforced components, including the bulged trunnion and heavier-duty furniture. This additional weight improves durability and stability during firing but may slightly impact handling and portability.
Should I choose this rifle or a traditional AK-47?
The choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. This rifle is an outstanding option if you prioritize exceptional durability, reliability under harsh conditions, and improved accuracy. However, if lighter weight, broader compatibility with standard AK parts, and easier customization with widely available components are essential factors, a traditional AK-47 might better suit your requirements.
Final Thoughts
The Zastava M70 is a rugged, reliable, and well-built AK variant that offers superior durability and performance. Whether you’re seeking a classic AK aesthetic or a modern tactical build, this rifle delivers. It excels in any environment because it has reinforced components, exceptional reliability under adverse conditions, and versatile compatibility with numerous aftermarket accessories. It blends tradition with contemporary functionality, perfect for both seasoned shooters and newcomers. Check out the latest deals at AR15Discounts.com to find this exceptional rifle at a great price.
For more information, www.zastavaarmsusa.com