Zastava Z5: Old School Mini .22
38:11 December 01, 2009
Science & Technology
nutnfancy
Little .22 bolt action guns are a riot. They're fun and engaging recreational shooting options for everyone. In some ways theyre easier and less intimidating instructional tools for kids, some female, or new shooters. The Serbian-made Zastava Z5 Youth gun is just such a rifle. Formerly imported by Charles Daley, Interarms, and then marketed by Remington Model Five (version shown and discussed here), this little .22 bolt gun fun and fast. Bolt lift is only 60º and the action is smooth. Trigger out of the box is a bit stagey buy as shown can be easily improved using factory adjustment screws. Current versions wear a press checkered laminated stock but other hardwood versions, like this one, have been issued. This stock is diminuitive for the smaller shooter and features 12 3/8" length of pull (vs 13 3/8" for adult Z5 model). Weighing only 5 ½ lbs (6 lbs with laminated stocks), the Rem Five/Z5 is quick into action and won't weigh down the new shooter (as long as you dont mount a heavy optic!). The bluing in this model is superb: high gloss and smooth. The Z5 comes with a 5 round magazine with is a bit thumb busting but ruggedly built. These magazines are not readily available but currently can be had from USSG Inc directly for around $25. Having more with make your shooting sessions a bit funner. But the Z5 can also function as a single shot with the included single shot adaptor (may be optional on some models), thus teaching the new shooter ammunition conservation and appreciation! The sights are good but have an overly short radius, commonplace with many European rifles. Putting on a red dot sight will easily cure that problem and allow adults to interchange in firing the Z5 youth without any eye relief problems as well. Accuracy is excellent and users have shown one hole capabilities with the gun to 50 yards. About the only downsides would be the 5 round limitation on the magazines and the Z5's somewhat increased costs over the years (this one was $140!). But this little rifle remains an excellent all-around training, plinking, hunting, and recreational .22 that remains affordable, durable, easy to use, and fun. It has enduring quality that will link your generations to you long after you're gone. /////////////////////////// Nutnfancy LIkability Scale: 9 out of 10 (my price considered!) ///////////////// Music: http://jimmyg.us