The CZ Scorpion EVO | Where it All Started
In 2009 the Ceska zbrojovka Uhersky Brod arms company, better known as CZ in the United States released a modified version of the Laugo LG 205-A submachine gun. Manufactured in the Czech Republic, and imported through CZ USA, based in Kansas City, KS. The new prototype was designed with maneuverability, weight efficiency, and functionality in mind. Chambered in 9X19mm the new CZ Scorpion EVO 3 comes in at just over 6 pounds with a fully loaded detachable high capacity magazine. The CZ Scorpion is designed with urban combat, close quarters, and confined spaces like inside buildings and vehicles in mind. This initial rifle has gained in popularity over the years and has become a keystone of the firearms and shooting industry, much like the M4, AR-15, and AK-47. The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 is highly adaptable and versatile, lending itself to be run as a carbine rifle, a pistol, and a short barreled rifle (SBR). The CZ Scorpion platform readily accepts high capacity magazines with OEM magazine options in 10, 20, and 30 round capacities.
Why 9mm Chambering
9X19mm, 9mm Luger, or just 9mm are all names for the same pistol cartridge, the nation’s most popular centerfire pistol cartridge. 9mm is a versatile centerfire, brass cased pistol cartridge that is easy to shoot, is accurate within its limitations, and is widely available with hundreds of millions of rounds on the market today. Offered in multiple bullet weights and designs on the market including full metal jacket, hollow point, and personal defense rounds. CZ’s choice of the 9mm for the chambering in the Scorpion platform is perfectly matched. Light recoil in the 9mm round makes it a pleasure to shoot, considering muzzle velocity somewhere between 1100 and 1300 feet per second with bullets weighing in over 100 grains, there is plenty of knock down for close range work. The 9mm cartridge is lightweight and compact to carry, and easy to load. Sacrificing velocity and range for convenience and recoil, the 9mm load is a terrific fit for the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 use case of close quarter work.
Versatile Options
Originally designed for military and law enforcement use in the A1 variant, the rifle features a select fire switch providing the shooter with 4 firing options. Safe mode, semi-auto, three-round burst and fully auto fire modes. The A1 model give the operator discretion to select the right fire mode for the situation. CZ quickly offered the Scorpion EVO 3 platform in a civilian model and multiple civilian variants. The CZ Scorpion EVO S1 and the CZ Scorpion EVO S2 are offered in the civilian market in multiple configurations that allow for easy customization and adaptation. Proficient as a carbine rifle, pistol, and SBR; with plenty of rail space and a threaded barrel for accessories like muzzle brakes and suppressors. The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 product line provides enthusiasts with the options they demand.
The Pistol
First available in the United States in 2015 on the civilian market and imported as a pistol with its short 7 3/4” barrel, the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Pistol is an iconic firearm on the market today. The Scorpion pistol works on a blowback semi-auto action and is equipped with low-profile sights. The pistol features a threaded barrel, and simple ambidextrous controls that are easy to use and reliable. With features like a swappable charging handle and adjustable trigger reach, the Scorpion is full of features with the shooter in mind. Larger than the 9mm concealed carry mini pistols on the market today, the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 pistol may have a larger frame than many other 9mm pistols, but it offers detachable high capacity magazine functionality, built in accessory rails, and a rugged frame designed for combat.
Make it a SBR
CZ offers the Scorpion EVO 3 S1 as a pistol, with corresponding classification at the ATF. However, with the appropriate licensing, and consideration of federal, state, and local laws; the Scorpion pistol readily accepts the CZ designed SB Tactical arm brace. Under federal law and ATF policy, attaching a stock to a pistol or a device that is intended as a stock constitutes a short-barreled rifle. Short Barreled Rifles (SBR) require registration with the ATF and a federal tax. If a SBR is on your list, and your willing to do the legal and regulatory leg work, the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S2 with the optional micro brace is the perfect fit. A pint sized pistol with a telescoping or folding stock chambered in 9mm is big on functionality, practicality, and on cool!
Pistol Caliber Carbine
Pistol caliber carbine rifles have been popular for years, and for good reason. A short rifle chambered in a light recoiling, yet effective centerfire pistol cartridge is a practical tool that fits many uses. The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 fits just that bill. Utilizing the proven Scorpion action, fit with a 16.2” barrel and a factory folding adjustable stock, CZ has built a practical and reliable pistol-caliber plinker. The rifle is setup factory with M-LOK attachment points, keeping the profile low and ergonomical while allowing for easy customization. The cold hammer forged barrel is cut with 1/2X28 threads to accept a flash hider, muzzle brake, or suppressor. CZ built in low-profile adjustable aperture and post sights for use as a primary or backup sighting system, providing accuracy and practicality without bulk. The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 Carbine is a lightweight, low recoil, shoulder fired rifle that accepts high capacity mags ready for range time, tactical training, or for things that go bump in the night.
Final Thoughts
A fast handling, lightweight firearm with low recoil and a tough proven action will find its place in the hands of tactical operators, law enforcement, and range time plinkers the world over. The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 is no exception. Law enforcement, Special Forces, and shooting enthusiasts from Egypt to Poland, and Vietnam to the United States have adopted the Scorpion platform in at least one of its versatile forms. Highly adaptable, practical, and versatile from pistol to SBR and carbine too, the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 deserves a hard look. Practical use cases are plenty for this sturdy little transformer including home defense, tactical application, law enforcement, and paper punching range time. Whatever your reason to squeeze the trigger on a CZ Scorpion EVO 3 9mm, it’s sure not to disappoint.