~ WW2 Era German Nazi Czech made CZ28 Semi-Automatic Pistol – Deactivated ~
The CZ vz. 28 semi-automatic pistol, often referred to as the CZ 28, is a relatively obscure firearm with ties to the interwar period and the German occupation of Czechoslovakia during World War II. Produced by the Česká Zbrojovka (CZ) factory in Strakonice, this pistol has historical significance, particularly as an example of a Czech design repurposed by Nazi Germany after its annexation of Czechoslovakia.
The Pistols is serial numbered 73864. It comes with its EU/UK deactivation certificate.
The slide and trigger move under spring pressure but it doesn’t dry fire nor can be striped.
The right side of the frame is stamped with a Waffenampt and a series of poof marks.
The top of the slide bears the factory mark and the matching serial number.
~ Condition ~
The magazine seems to be jammed and the bakelite end is cracked and missing a piece but is not loose.
There is age-related pitting on the piece.
Dimensions:
Overall Length: Approximately 160 mm (6.3 inches).
Barrel Length: Around 85 mm (3.3 inches).
Weight: Roughly 700 grams (1.5 pounds) unloaded.
Historical Context
The CZ 28 was designed in the late 1920s, reflecting the evolving demand for compact, reliable semi-automatic pistols.
It was primarily intended for civilian use and law enforcement, filling a niche market for small, concealable handguns.
Following the German occupation of Czechoslovakia in 1939, the Nazis seized control of Czech arms manufacturing facilities, including the Česká Zbrojovka plant.
The CZ 28, like other Czech firearms, was appropriated and issued to German military and police forces during the war, although it was not a standard-issue weapon. It was primarily used as a secondary sidearm or for auxiliary personnel.
The weapon’s simple blowback operation and small caliber made it suitable for non-frontline roles, such as police duties or arming rear-echelon troops.
Design and Features
The CZ 28 was chambered for the .380 ACP (9x17mm Browning Short) cartridge, a popular round for compact pistols of the era.
It operates on a simple blowback mechanism, which is cost-effective and reliable for smaller calibers.
The pistol is constructed with a steel frame and slide, ensuring durability.
Its compact size made it well-suited for concealed carry or as a backup weapon.
The pistol features a single-stack magazine with a capacity of 7 rounds.
Equipped with fixed iron sights, typical for pistols of its class and period.
A manual safety lever was included, providing basic operational security.
Markings:
Early CZ 28 pistols bear standard Czech factory markings, but those issued under German control may include Waffenamt inspection stamps or other German military markings, enhancing their collectibility.
The grip is straightforward and functional, though less refined compared to later designs.
Its small dimensions made it ideal for civilian use, law enforcement, and roles requiring concealed carry.
While overshadowed by more prominent pistols such as the Walther P38 or Luger P08, the CZ 28 served as a useful supplement to German forces during the war.
CZ 28 pistols are less common than other WWII-era handguns, and examples with Nazi markings are particularly sought after by collectors.