Make: Ceska Zbrojovka, imported by C.A.I.

Model: 52

Serial Number: A1305

Year of Manufacture: 1953

Caliber: 7.62x25mm Tokarev

Action Type: Single Action, Roller-Locked, Semi-Auto with Removable Magazine

Barrel Length: 4 3/4"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to the top of the rib in the slide. The rear sight is a flat topped "U"-notch dovetailed into the top rear of the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are serrated brown synthetic panels that are held in place with a steel clip around the back. The grips show light handling wear with scattered light nicks and scuffs on the smooth portions. There is crazing in some surfaces. The serrations are well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Parkerized

Finish Originality: Original to the parts, the barrel is not serial-marked and was likely arsenal-replaced. The import mark is through the finish on the right slide flat.

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion but there is some stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8+/10.

Overall Condition: The handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at most edges, and there are some scattered minor nicks along edges. There are a few other scattered minor marks. The action shows minor operational wear. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a leather flap holster and a single 8-round magazine.

Our Assessment: The CZ 52 is a semi-automatic pistol designed by two brothers, Jan and Jaroslav Kratochvíl, in the early 1950s for the Czechoslovak military. Around 200,000 vz. 52s were made by Ceska Zbrojovka in Strakonice from 1952 to 1954. The CZ52 is a roller-locked short recoil operated pistol chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev. This example is in Fine condition with about 96% of its metal finish, a good bore in its replacement barrel, and strong mechanics. This will make someone a great addition to a Cold War-era small arms collection, especially with its included holster. Please see our photos and good luck!