If you’ve stumbled upon the term “zaztava-m57-238687”, you’re likely searching for detailed insights into the Zastava M57 pistol, perhaps even related to a specific serial number. This in-depth guide breaks down everything—from its design and history to ballistics, collector value, and troubleshooting tips. Let’s dive in.
What Is the Zastava M57? Origins and Legacy
The Zastava M57 is a Yugoslavian/Serbian semi-automatic pistol, a direct clone of the Soviet TT-33 Tokarev, but with key enhancements. Designed in the late 1950s and entering service in 1961, it became the standard sidearm of the Yugoslav People’s Army until the early 1990s.
Serial production began in 1963, wrapping up around 1982, with approximately 260,000–270,000 units built.
Notable upgrades over the original TT-33 include:
- A longer grip accommodating a 9-round magazine (vs. the TT-33’s eight).
- A magazine safety, preventing discharge when the magazine is removed.
- An adjustable dovetailed front sight and anti-glare slide serrations.
Today, modernized variants like the M57A (with external slide safety) and M70A (chambered in 9×19mm Parabellum) continue to extend its legacy.
Design & Technical Specs: What Makes the M57 Stand Out
Reflecting on its design lineage and specifications:
- The modified grip and magazine improved handling and increased ammunition capacity—key for military use.
- It features a captive recoil spring, making disassembly and maintenance easier than the TT-33.
- The pistol incorporates aggressive slide serrations, enhanced magazine release, and simplified controls—designed for efficiency and ruggedness.
- General specs include:
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Caliber: 7.62×25 mm Tokarev
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Weight (empty): ~854 g
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Length: ~194 mm (barrel ~116 mm)
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Performance & Ballistics: How Does It Shoot?
The Zastava M57 isn’t just historically interesting—it’s known for potent performance:
Chambered in the bottlenecked 7.62×25mm, it delivers high velocity (up to 1,600+ fps in surplus rounds), offering remarkable flat trajectory.
Real-world ballistic testing shows the round can penetrate older body armor and helmets, outperforming 9mm and even .45 ACP in certain scenarios.
Reliability stats are strong—collectors and shooters often report few malfunctions.
From Reddit discussions:
“It is reliable, it shoots an armor piercing little bottleneck round at about 1600 fps and it’s pretty controllable.”
In short, the M57 delivers impressive firepower in a compact, dependable package.
Collectibility & Value: Understanding the Market
If you’re hunting for details related to a serial—like “238687”—or tracking prices, here’s what to know:
- The average used value of a Zastava M57 hovers around $350 as of 2025.
- Market activity shows used prices trending between $300–$400, depending on condition and rarity.
- Rarity, finish (e.g., hard chrome), and proof marks all impact value. Clean, well-preserved pistols often command a premium.
User Experience: Reliability, Ease, and Community Feedback
The M57’s enduring reputation stems from both design and community approval:
- Ease of Disassembly: The captive recoil spring and lever-locked grips make field maintenance user-friendly.
- Shooting Experience: Users report effective shootability despite simpler sights and older ergonomics.
- Community Praise: From commendations to minor critique:
“Reliable… controllable” versus
“Inaccurate as f***, extremely loud.”
These opinions underline normalization of the M57’s quirks—championed by fans of retro military firearms.
Concluding Thoughts on Zaztava-M57-238687
The enigmatic keyword “zaztava-m57-238687” likely denotes a specific Zastava M57 serial or variant. Ultimately, the M57 stands as a testament to effective reverse engineering and smart adaptations of proven Soviet design.
To recap:
- It embodies Yugoslav ingenuity, delivering practical improvements over the TT-33.
- It boasts powerful ballistics, notable reliability, and a niche collector market.
- Its simplicity and craftsmanship continue to appeal to both shooters and enthusiasts.
Quick Reference: Zastava M57 at a Glance
| Feature | Summary |
|---|---|
| Origin & Production | Yugoslavia (Zastava Arms), 1963–1982, ~260,000 produced |
| Caliber | 7.62×25mm Tokarev |
| Design Enhancements | Longer grip, 9-round magazine, magazine safety |
| Notable Features | Captive recoil spring, anti-glare serrations |
| Ballistic Highlight | High penetration, up to 1,600+ fps |
| Market Value (Used) | Approx. $300–$400 average |
| Collector Value Factors | Condition, finish, serial, historic provenance |
| User Feedback | Reliable, powerful, with polarizing opinions |
In Summary:
The Zastava M57 is a fascinating piece of firearms history—blending practical design, historic relevance, and ballistic power. Whether you’re hunting for a specific serial like “238687” or simply delving into its legacy, the M57 delivers both substance and intrigue.
