The video opens with an overview of the Zastava M83 revolvers featured by Classic Firearms. These are double- and single-action revolvers with a 4-inch barrel and a six-shot cylinder. The hosts note that Zastava is a well-known manufacturer with a long history, and these particular revolvers come from law enforcement service overseas. The discussion sets the stage for a closer look at their configuration, surplus condition, and how they handle on the range.
The hosts explain that the Zastava M83 is chambered in .357 Magnum but can also fire .38 Special. They point out that .38 Special loads are lower powered and easier to shoot, while .357 Magnum offers greater terminal effect at the cost of increased recoil. The revolver uses a six-shot cylinder. Attention is given to the trigger, which is described as having a nice, crisp break, especially in single-action mode. One sample revolver has a slightly softer trigger pull than another, illustrating minor variations between individual surplus guns.
The conversation shifts to surplus characteristics and external differences among the Zastava M83 revolvers. Because these are surplus imports, previous users often modified them, particularly the grips. Some revolvers have elongated, beefier grips, while others retain a more standard grip profile. A few examples include tape on the grips or visible numbers, likely from prior inventory or unit markings. The model designation M83 is discussed, along with markings such as “/92,” indicating production in 1992. Overall, the hosts emphasize that exact grip style and cosmetic details will vary from one revolver to another.
The hosts briefly review the Zastava M83’s fixed sights and basic operation. The rear sight is a slim, built-in notch along the top of the frame, while the front post is described as easy to pick up when aiming. They demonstrate opening the cylinder, loading the revolver, and ensuring it is clear while discussing the sight picture. The revolver is presented as a straightforward double- and single-action design: open the cylinder, load the six chambers, close it, and the gun is ready to fire. The focus remains on the practical, no-frills nature of the sights and controls.
A segment is dedicated to how to properly grip a revolver, contrasting it with common semi-automatic pistol grips. The hosts caution against placing the support hand too far forward, which can expose fingers to hot gases escaping at the cylinder gap. They relay advice from a revolver competition shooter: for a right-handed shooter, the left thumb should rest over the joint of the right thumb, creating a secure, compact grip behind the cylinder. This technique is described as very stable and easier to control under recoil, particularly with .357 Magnum loads.
The video concludes with a brief recap of the Zastava M83 revolver’s characteristics as a surplus .357 Magnum sidearm with .38 Special compatibility. The hosts reiterate their appreciation for revolvers in general, even if they do not specialize in revolver shooting. Viewers who have experience with the Zastava M83 are encouraged to leave reviews and comments about their own examples. The segment ends with a simple sign-off, closing out the overview of these surplus law-enforcement revolvers.
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