From the Vault: Czech ZK-383 Submachine Gun
This video from the "From the Vault" series features Keith Ford and Caleb Savant from Brownells Gun Tech™ examining a rare Czech ZK-383 submachine gun at Rock Island Auction Co. The ZK-383, chambered in 9mm Luger, was designed in the 1930s as a light squad automatic weapon. The video highlights its simple barrel swap and easy cleaning process. It also details the ingenious mechanism for changing the rate of fire between 450 and 750 rounds per minute, as well as the unique side-mounted, tilted magazine that aids feeding and ejection. The discussion touches upon the ZK-383's production history from 1938 to 1948/49, its use by the Nazi Waffen-SS, and exports to Bulgaria. The three variants—standard, police (ZK-383-P), and bipod-less (ZK-383-H)—are also mentioned, emphasizing the firearm's solid engineering and smooth operation.










