The hosts introduce a Zastava ZPAP M70 AK-47 finished in 24 karat gold plating. The rifle is presented as a visually striking variant hanging on the studio wall, immediately drawing attention. It is described as an AKM-style rifle chambered in 7.62x39, and the conversation sets the tone that, despite the flashy appearance, it is still a serious firearm. The mood lighting and presentation emphasize that this is a special version of the ZPAP M70, distinct from standard production rifles mainly because of its finish and overall aesthetic.
The Zastava ZPAP M70 is described as an AKM-style semi-automatic rifle chambered in 7.62x39, using a 30-round detachable magazine. It features a 1.5 mm thick receiver with a bulged trunnion, consistent with other Zastava rifles. The rifle wears American walnut furniture and includes a matching gold-plated magazine. The hosts note that the gold plating extends beyond the exterior surfaces, reaching up to the feed lips and even into the interior of the magazine. They speculate that an electroplating or dipping process may have been used, while making clear they do not know the exact method. Overall, the core mechanics remain standard ZPAP M70, with the gold finish as the primary difference.
Several Zastava-specific features are highlighted. The rifle includes a left-side optics rail for mounting compatible AK optics. On the right side, it has a bolt hold-open safety selector. A notable Zastava feature is the locking mechanism for the dust cover, designed to prevent the cover from popping off under recoil, which can happen on some AKs if the cover is not properly fitted. The hosts also mention that Serbian-style AKM rifles, like this ZPAP M70, use slightly different furniture and buttstock attachment methods compared to other AK patterns, so replacement stocks and handguards must be specific to Zastava. These details distinguish it from more generic AKM platforms while retaining familiar operation.
The rifle is characterized as a showpiece or wall display gun, with pricing in the several-thousand-dollar range, around the five-thousand-dollar mark. The hosts emphasize that, despite being treated as a display item, it remains a fully functional Zastava M70. They note that it would be capable of defensive use if needed, even if its cost and gold finish might make it a less likely first choice in an emergency. The conversation includes lighthearted references to it fitting the aesthetic of a Middle Eastern dictator or a luxury mansion, underscoring that its primary appeal is visual and collectible rather than purely utilitarian.
The hosts explain that this specific gold-plated ZPAP M70 has been fired on the range, including a session with Black Rambo, and not just kept as a pristine display piece. They report that it runs well and functions like other Zastava AKs, reinforcing that the gold finish does not compromise reliability. They compare it to a max-level, prestige-style gold skin from video games such as Call of Duty, but stress that underneath the cosmetic treatment it remains a standard, dependable AK platform. The rifle is presented as both a functional firearm and a conversation piece that can actually be shot without concern for basic performance.
The discussion turns to standard ZPAP M70 features that carry over to this gold-plated version. The rifle uses a 45-degree slant muzzle brake and a front sight that is elevation adjustable by screwing the post in or out, with windage adjustment at the front sight block. The rear sight is elevation adjustable in typical AK fashion. The hosts reiterate the well-known durability and reliability of the AK platform, noting that, despite its appearance suggesting it belongs in a high-end setting like Beverly Hills, it would be equally at home in harsh environments such as beaches or trenches. The gold finish does not change the underlying rugged construction of the rifle.
Closer inspection reveals that Zastava did not cut corners on the gold plating. Even small components such as the sling mount and buttpad are gold-plated, matching the rest of the rifle. The trigger is described as a typical Zastava AK trigger, consistent with other ZPAP M70 rifles. The rifle also features a slightly extended magazine release, making it easier to manipulate. These details, combined with the thick receiver, bulged trunnion, and walnut furniture, reinforce that this is a standard, well-built Zastava M70 mechanically, with the gold finish applied comprehensively across external parts and accessories.
In closing, the hosts mention their contact at Zastava and briefly joke about the idea of a gold-plated Draco-style mini AK or “chopper” as a fun concept. They invite viewers to leave reviews and comments, particularly from anyone who has experience with a gold-plated AK or a Zastava M70 in general. The video ends with a straightforward sign-off encouraging safe firearm handling and hinting at the desire to take the rifle back out to shoot. The overall impression is that this ZPAP M70 is a functional AK rifle that happens to be finished as an elaborate, collectible showpiece.
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