CZ 83 .32 Accuracy.

[HotPb]

Took my “new” CZ 83 to the range on Monday after completing chores.   Ran 50 rounds of factory Fiocchi 73 grain FMJ .32 ammo.   Pistol ran flawlessly.   Extremely pleasant pistol to shoot. 

I was tired and the sun was low in my eyes and the CZ is new to me.  I was able hold the 8” bullseye of the NRA B8 target at 25 yards.   That’s not horrible, but I suspect me and the gun can do a lot better. 

Anyone have data for expected accuracy of the .32 caliber CZ 83?   Seems like with a fixed barrel and good ammo it should shoot quite well.   

FYI, I’m a long time Bullseye competitive shooter, so I’m a bit picky about this.   I have various target guns, and many regular S&W revolvers (.38, .357, .44 Special) that will group an honest 1” or less at 25 yards.  I’d like to get 3” or better with the CZ 83, but maybe I’m being unrealistic. 

Any feedback appreciated.   I’ll keep experimenting and report results

[Fuzzy Sights]

Had one when I was stationed in Germany.  Mine would shoot 9 ring groups (ISU standard target) with virtually any ammo I could get for it at 25m (usually GECO).  Initially had issues adjusting the sights and another member let me use his rear sight pusher.  Excellent pistol, sadly let my boss buy it when I PCS'd.  Honestly the gun could probably shoot better, but that was what could do with it off hand.

Good luck and hope this helps.

JW

[Joe L]

I bet there aren't many folks who have tried 25 yards on a B-8 target, so you may be setting the standard here.  Since it is fixed barrel, I'm thinking your ability to hold a consistent sight picture with the short sight radius open sights is going to have more of an effect than anything mechanical with the gun.  At least that is what the limitation would be for me.  I hope you make your 3" goal.  For me it would take a two handed grip from a wrist rest and a lot of practice with the open sights.

[Fuzzy Sights]

JoeL,

It helped greatly to be in my late 30s and still doing PT 3 times a week.  At nearly 65 I am lucky to stay in A zone on a IDPA target at 30 feet.  9 ring on a ISU target is like 4 1/4 inches, so it really is not that good.  Only owned two pistols at the time it and a Hammerli 22.  The ammo the Hammerli liked was more expensive than 32 ACP and I shot it more.  On most German ranges 25 meters was as close as you could get, unless shooting a air gun.

JW

[Fuzzy Sights]

I think a 3in group at 25 yds is quite doable with an 83.  Have always found 32 ACP to be quite accurate.  Unfortunately it is usually the trigger, geometry of the grip and non-adjustable sights that are the issue.  One of my favorite pistols of my youth was a FN-1922 in 32.  It would role pop cans at 40 paces.  Sadly you had to put the sights about 8 inches to the right to do it.  Trying to tap those sights was an exercise in futility.

Wish you the best on your project.

JW