cz-83 mag release

[reds]

after a few trips to the range where my surplus cz83 performed well, I began to have an issue with the mag release. It became very stiff and hard to depress on either side. A good cleaning did not seem to help that much and the parts seemed ok - not broken. Any one else have this problem or can you recommend a solution before I take the gun to a gunsmith?

[rdcinhou]

I have both a CZ82 (very used) and a CZ83 (factory new).
My 83's mag release is great.

The 82 had problems at first, it turns out that the little parts were worn over time but you can buy the replacement parts from CZUSA and replace them yourself (82 and 83 share a lot of the same parts). 

The design is rather odd, so I suggest you watch any of the complete disassembly videos on the internet before trying it yourself.

[Blackwatch]

Just as rdcinhou suggests - watch the disassembly/re-assembly vids and tackle the mag release yourself if you feel comfortable. Neat little mechanism to strip and clean 

[JoePfeiffer]

Also, googling "sailor Curt cz" will turn up an outstanding series of blog posts on disassembling and reassembling the pistol (I for one detest instructional how-to videos because of all the time I spend backing up and rewatching a step that ought to be a simple photo).

Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

[il.bill]

SOMETIMES if you take the mag release apart you can gently clean up the worn angle(s) on the small pieces with a jeweler's file and significantly improve the function.  You might try that first - it sounds like you have nothing to lose.

If contact edges are simply worn too much to successfully smooth out, just get replacement parts from CZ-USA and you will be good to go.  Here is the general CZ-USA Parts Finder starting point:  http://shop.cz-usa.com/company/click-n-go-part-finder.

Here is the CZ82/83 specifics:  http://shop.cz-usa.com/czpartslists/CZ83.pdf.  You will most likely need Part Numbers 43, 44, and 46 to get it working properly.  I usually also get one each of the related Pins and Springs when I am putting together an order.  If you own more than one CZ82 and/or CZ83, go ahead and get two each of the Magazine Catch(44) Push Button(43) and Lever(46) for when the other pistol acts up from worn parts.

[JAKELEG]

Go here, start from part one to get the full benefit.

http://sailorcurt.com/2009/01/cz-82-gunsmithing-part-13.html/

I have followed the complete write-up to redo 4 83's...easy to follow instructions led to 4 great functioning 83's.
The mag release components are usually just dirty...clean them up, use a little 400 grit wet or dry paper to smooth the parts a bit, and you're good to go.
easy-peasy.........