Vektor Z-88

History

In response to the South African Defence Force's request for a new standardized pistol, the Vector Z-88 became a licensed production copy of the Italian Beretta Model 92 (M92) semi-automatic pistol, self-introduced in 1975. South Africa began local manufacturing of the Z-88 pistol in 1992, and by all accounts, the pistol looks and functions almost identically to its Italian counterpart, while retaining many of the key attributes of success and quality.

Development of the Z-88 system began in 1986 and was approved for use with the South African Army in 1988, with production beginning the following year. Although the pistol is based on the Model 92, there is no known direct link between the LIW Denel and the Beretta.

Action, internal features and appearance are almost completely modeled after the Beretta 92, following Beretta Type 92 specifications, the Vector Z-88 features a double-action firing mechanism, a 15-round detachable magazine and a muzzle velocity of 1,280 feet per second. The name "Z-88" is derived from the first letter of the surname of T.D.

Zeederberg, acting general manager of LIW. The "88" in the name is derived from the year the weapon was licensed (1988).

Externally, the Z-88 has the same clean lines and edges as the M92. The curved trigger is held in an elongated trigger ring. The rubber sides of the pistol grip are patterned to promote a secure grip.

As with traditional semi-automatic types, the magazine is located at the bottom of the pistol grip. There is a spine above the back of the grip and the hammer is clearly visible on the back of the slide.

The sights are mounted on the top, front and rear of the slider, with the ejection port between them.

The Beretta M92 also forms the semi-automatic pistol of the US military "M9" series (Beretta M92F), adopted in 1985 after extensive testing.

Specification

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Changes