Legend, icon, classic... These three words come to mind when we think of the long-standing staple of Czech soldiers' armament - the Sa Vz. 58. This assault rifle (terminologically incorrectly named as a submachine gun) entered the equipment of our army in 1959. It also found use in the armament of police forces and soldiers of the Slovak Army.

According to the appearance of this rifle, it is easy to compare it to the AK-47. However, when we disassemble both weapons, we come to the conclusion that they are completely different weapons. Of course, the designers based their product on the rifles available at the time (StG 44 and AK-47). However, tests have confirmed that the Vz. 58 is an equally, if not more reliable weapon than the AK-47.

The Vz. 58 uses a 7.62x39mm cartridge. The magazine has a capacity of 30 rounds. The two most famous variants of this rifle are the paddle (fixed stock) and the scythe (drop-arm version with folding shoulder rest). The maximum range is up to 2,800 meters, with a cadence of 800 rounds per minute (the AK-47 has a cadence of 600 rounds per minute).

Since the 1980s there was talk of upgrading, but it didn't happen for a long time afterwards. It was not until 1 February 2010 that the winner of the tender for rearmament of the Czech Armed Forces was announced - CZ 805 BREN. However, the swan song of the iconic Vz. 58 rifle remains its use by the Active Reserve of the Czech Armed Forces.

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