How to determine the age of a CZ-70?

rballi

I just got a CZ-70 in 32 cal and would like to know the approximate age of the gun. There is an '81 on the top left of the slide and the serial number is in the 700k range. Does the '81 stand for the year 1981? Or, is it some type of proof or import mark?

Roy

lrarmsx

The "81" would be the year yes, 1981.

rballi

Thanks for the response, but, is that the actual mfg date or import date?

Roy

lrarmsx

They usually don't have an import date. The importers mark should be there, but that should be "who" imported it not "when". Just for reference, that gun wasn't allowed for import in 1981. We did not have trade relations with the Czechs until after the fall of communism. That is why a CZ 75 could cost over $1000 15 years ago. They were not allowed to be imported into this country. The only way you'd see one here, was if a US soldier bought one while stationed over seas and brought it back home when he returned to the US.

So no, the import was not 1981. Just for reference, you'll still see the date stamp on new CZ pistols like the CZ75, CZ85, CZ83, and CZ97. It is usually found on the slide near the ejection port. There usually is a crest stamp near it as well. I hope this helps.