At the end of last week, the gates of the CZUB (Česká Zbrojovka Uherský Brod) were opened for two days to expert journalists from all over the world. Forty or so invited guests were not only able to visit the CZUB factory, but also to try out almost all types of weapons produced by CZUB. The event was held as part of the celebration of the 85th anniversary of the company. It was founded in 1936 as part of the defence activities of our state against the growing tensions in Europe. Today, thanks to almost 97% of exports, CZUB contributes to the good condition of the domestic defence industry.

Picture: This week, the gates of the CZUB were opened for two days to professional journalists from all over the world. | Jan Zilvar / CZ Defence

The factory complex undergoes permanent modernisation according to the development of market opportunities and needs. The production of individual types of weapons is not a unified activity, which is why professionally trained and experienced workers play an indispensable role here. On site you can see classic reliable machines that have been in service for several decades, but also the latest computer-controlled sets. And it's the same with the people. Along with the experienced "old bards", there are also young people who are learning their trade here.

The CZUB has undergone a really interesting development during its existence. Indeed, this can be seen most eloquently in the so-called Hall of Fame of the company, where exhibits of weapons that have made an indelible mark on Czech history or weapons that are rare in their uniqueness can be seen.

Picture: The so-called Hall of Fame of the company, where exhibits of weapons that have made an indelible mark on Czech history or weapons that are rare in their uniqueness are on display. | Jan Zilvar / CZ Defence

Among the significant years related to the CZUB factory, let us mention, for example, 1959, when the now legendary vz. 58 submachine gun was introduced. In 1975, the first CZ 75 pistol appeared, which was produced at the Czech Armoury until 2007 and thanks to its excellent characteristics became a popular weapon all over the world.

Picture: CZ 75 pistol with serial number 00001 | Jan Zilvar / CZ Defence

An interesting milestone in the modern history is the year 2016, when the production of BREN 2 assault rifles began, which definitely marked the expansion into the defence market. The years 2019 (start of production of the CZ P-10 pistol in the USA) and 2021 (purchase of the American company COLT).

Picture: Percentage representation of destinations within the export of Czech Armaments products | Jan Zilvar / CZ Defence

In addition to the important historical events, the journalists were also presented with the current state of the arms factory and its future prospects. An interesting fact is that last year, despite the major problems caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the CZUB managed to achieve an impressive sales of 402,830 weapons, which was 71,449 more than in 2019.

Picture: In 2020, Česká zbrojovka managed to achieve impressive sales of 402,830 weapons, 71,449 more than in 2019 | Jan Zilvar / CZ Defence

The company continues to expect overall growth in weapons sold, which is interesting information for the Czech market, where CZUB is a significant co-contributor to the total volume of trade and production (CZUB supplies 90 countries worldwide). Currently, CZUB is expected to reach a total sales volume of CZK 7 billion in 2025.

Picture: CZUB is currently expected to reach a total sales volume of CZK 7 billion in 2025. | Jan Zilvar / CZ Defence

The journalists were also briefed on the technical innovations, products and plans that should contribute to the above-mentioned goal. The event of the CZUB also included a practical introduction of the expert journalists to individual CZUB weapons.

Picture: The Czech Armaments Factory event also included a hands-on introduction of CZUB's individual weapons to expert journalists. | Jan Zilvar / CZ Defence

Picture: The Czech Armaments Factory event also included a hands-on introduction of CZUB's individual weapons to expert journalists. | Jan Zilvar / CZ Defence

At four thematically divided shooting stations, journalists could see and, of course, shoot all types of weapons offered by the factory. These were weapons intended for the armed forces, hunting or sporting pistols and rifles. We could try shooting from various modifications of the BREN 2 assault rifle, SCORPION EVO 3 submachine gun or pistols from the CZ P-10 series, CZ SHADOW 2, etc.

Picture: The Czech Armaments Factory event also included a hands-on introduction of CZUB's individual weapons to expert journalists. | Jan Zilvar / CZ Defence

Among other things, we were also introduced to hot new products from the CZUB's hunting weapons portfolio, which we will inform you about at the beginning of next year.