In true Forgotten Weapons form, Ian visited the James D. Julia Inc. auction house to found a weapon that no one but a few historical enthusiasts would be familiar with, the Czech ZK-383. The weapon was used by Bulgaria and the German SS during World War II.

As Ian goes into detail, the sub machine gun has some features not normally found on sub-machine guns such as a quick-change barrel and having a bipod. The idea of the Czechs was that the weapon could be used as a light-support weapon for ranges under 200 yards.

The ZK-383 feeds from a 30 round stick magazine, feeding from the left-hand size side (those who have shot STENs would find it familiar). Operation is from the open bolt and the shooter can select either fully automatic or semi-automatic fire. The safety is cross-bolt style. Sights are open and fully adjustable.

Interestingly, the weapon has user-configurable rate of fire by changing out a weight within the bolt. The “slow” rate was about 470-500 RPM and the high rate at 750 RPM.

For those interested, the weapon will be available at James D. Julia’s upcoming auction, transferable on a C&R FFL or through the standard $200 tax stamp. You can check out their rare firearms auction coming up on March 14th and 15th at their website.