The Zastava M83 Revolver

Introduction to the Zastava M83 Revolver

The video opens with an overview of the Zastava M83 revolvers featured on the table. These revolvers have 4-inch barrels and six-shot cylinders. The hosts explain that the M83 is produced by Zastava, a well-known manufacturer, and that these examples are surplus revolvers. The discussion focuses on examining the general configuration and purpose of the M83, setting up a closer look at their features and how they were used. The revolvers shown represent typical surplus condition examples that have seen prior service.

Calibers, Capacity, and Trigger Characteristics

The hosts explain that the Zastava M83 is chambered in .357 Magnum and can also fire .38 Special. They note that .38 Special is lower powered and easier to shoot, while .357 Magnum offers greater terminal effect at the cost of increased recoil. Each revolver uses a six-shot cylinder. The triggers are described as having a nice, crisp feel, with some variation between individual surplus examples. Single-action trigger pulls are highlighted as particularly clean and light, while double-action operation is also available, giving the revolver both single- and double-action capability.

Surplus Origins, Grips, and External Variations

These Zastava M83 revolvers are identified as surplus imports that originally came from law enforcement entities overseas. Because they were carried and used over many years, individual revolvers show differences in external features. The hosts point out that grips vary noticeably: some examples have elongated, beefier grips, while others retain what appears to be a more standard or stock grip profile. Certain revolvers have tape on the grips or visible numbers, reflecting how previous users labeled or modified them. The variety in grips and markings is presented as typical of surplus service revolvers rather than factory-new production.

Model Markings, Sights, and Cylinder Operation

Attention turns to the markings and basic operation of the Zastava M83. One revolver is marked M83 with an additional “/92,” which the hosts interpret as indicating manufacture in 1992, with M83 as the model designation and 1992 as the production year. The revolvers are confirmed as double- and single-action designs. The sights are fixed and built into the top of the frame, with a slim rear notch and a front post that is described as easy to pick up when aiming. The hosts briefly demonstrate opening the cylinder, loading the six chambers, and closing it, emphasizing that the cylinder is swung out and checked before pointing the revolver for sight discussion.

Recommended Revolver Grip Technique

The conversation shifts to how to properly hold a revolver. The hosts distinguish revolver grip from the typical grip used on semi-automatic handguns, warning that placing the support hand too far forward on a revolver can expose fingers to hot gases and potentially cause injury. One host shares a technique learned from a revolver competition shooter: for a right-handed shooter, the right hand grips the revolver normally, while the left thumb rests over the joint of the right thumb. This grip is described as very stable and easier to control under recoil. The technique is presented as practical advice for shooters unfamiliar with revolvers.

Closing Thoughts and User Feedback

The video concludes with a brief recap that the firearm discussed is the Zastava M83 revolver, a surplus .357 Magnum six-shot model with 4-inch barrel and various grip configurations. The host notes an appreciation for revolvers in general, while clarifying a personal background that is not focused on revolver shooting. Viewers who have experience with the Zastava M83 are invited to leave reviews and comments describing their own observations. The segment ends with a short sign-off, closing out the overview of these surplus Zastava M83 revolvers.