CZW 438 PDW

History

The CZW 438 is a modern Czech automatic weapon used in Personal Defense Weapon (PDW) roles. Such weapons are usually issued to second-line operators such as drivers and logisticians, but can also be used without reservation by vehicle crews and special forces.

The PDW is similar in form and function to a submachine gun (SMG), but with slightly extended range and penetration, and acts as a bridge product between standard pistols and standard SMGs, these design types currently embodied in the Belgian FN P90 and German HK MP7 Series - Both guns are described elsewhere on this page.

The CZW 438 is primarily known for the rather unique 4.38x30mm cartridge, also known as the .17 "Libra", which provides the weapon's long-range sonic prowess and great human-stopping capabilities. Two magazine capacities are shown - 15 and 30 rounds and the gun has an overall length of 690mm with an extended wire stock (otherwise 445mm) and a 220mm long barrel.

The total weight is in the range of 2.7 kg. Iron sights have a range of 50 to 200 yards, although the super-receiver portion of the MIL-STD-1913 rail allows the installation of accessories such as optical and laser sights.

The recoil action is delayed by a lever, and the rate of fire is specified at 850 rounds per minute. A selector lever allows two or three circular burst firing patterns.

Like most other modern assault weapons, the CZW 438 has been designed with modularity in mind, meaning the basic form can be configured in many ways to suit mission roles without complex management or changes to the weapon's basic functionality. In this way, the system can switch from personal defense to attack in just a few steps. The overall layout is roughly similar to the classic Kalashnikov weapon, the receiver is square, and the function and maintenance of the weapon is as simple as possible, suitable for all levels of shooters. The magazine is bent and inserted forward of the trigger assembly, and the pistol grip is angled to facilitate some ergonomic comfort.

The nose section is covered by a handguard under the barrel, which itself is covered by a slotted flash suppressor.

The CZW 438 series has been expanded to a more traditional submachine gun model in the CZW 438 M9. This model holds the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge, which is common in many pistols and submachine guns around the world.

Specification

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Changes