Make: ?eská Zbrojovka (CZ)

Model: Model 45 (Vz. 45)

Serial Number: 115136

Year of Manufacture: 1950 (per “50” date code and Czech lion proof)

Caliber: .25 ACP (6.35mm Browning)

Action Type: Blowback-Operated Semi-Automatic with Removable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “?ESKÁ ZBROJOVKA – NÁRODNÍ PODNIK / STRAKONICE” with the CZ round logo ahead of the text. The frame below the slide is marked “MADE IN CZECHOSLOVAKIA” with the Czech rampant lion proof and “50” date code. The right side of the frame is marked with the serial number “115136”. The black plastic grips bear the CZ medallion molded into each panel.

Barrel Length: 2.25" (approximately)

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small rounded blade integral to the slide. The rear sight is a small U-notch, also integral to the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are molded black checkered plastic with CZ medallions. They are well fit to the frame and free of cracks or chips. Handling wear is minimal and the checkering remains sharp. Overall, the grips are in Fine to Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 95% of its original finish. There is light operational wear at the muzzle and exposed edges, along with minor surface handling marks throughout. The slide serrations are clean, the screw heads remain serviceable, and the markings are crisp. Overall, this pistol rates in Fine-plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is no manual safety on this model, as was standard for the simplified Vz. 45 design. The magazine locks securely, and the trigger and slide operate properly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol includes one magazine. Also one leather Holster

Our Assessment: The CZ Model 45, or Vz. 45, represents a transitional moment in post-WWII Eastern European firearm design. Built under nationalization at the Strakonice plant in Czechoslovakia, it was a refinement of the earlier Vz. 36 and Vz. 1945 pistols. Designed with simplicity and cost-efficiency in mind, the Vz. 45 eliminated the manual safety found on earlier versions—reflecting both its intended role as a backup pistol and the evolving military doctrine of the early Cold War.

Despite its compact form and modest chambering in .25 ACP, this pistol is historically significant as one of the last blowback pocket pistols produced by CZ before the Communist Bloc's shift toward standard-issue Makarov and Tokarev-type designs. The date code “50” places this pistol firmly in the first decade of the Cold War, offering collectors an authentic, unaltered example of Eastern Bloc manufacture during a pivotal time in small arms development.

Whether you're collecting early Cold War handguns, CZ pistols, or small-caliber backup guns, this Vz. 45 is a fascinating and well-preserved piece that exemplifies utilitarian design in the face of geopolitical transition.