Some rifles just have that “it” factor. The Zastava M70 is one of them. Whether you’re gripping an old-school stamped beast with real-world battle scars or cradling a fresh-from-the-box ZPAP M70 decked out in polymer furniture, one thing’s certain—these rifles deserve more TLC than a ‘69 Camaro.
Preserving legacy M70s and their modern PAP counterparts is not just about function; it’s about honoring the legacy of Yugoslavian craftsmanship while keeping your baby looking (and shooting) sharp for generations. This isn’t just maintenance—it’s conservation with style.
Legacy M70s: Born Tough, Aged Like Whiskey
The original Zastava M70s weren’t range toys. They were built for action, baptized in mud, and forged for endurance. These stamped-receiver tanks pack heavy-duty RPK-style trunnions and cold-hammer-forged barrels. But even tanks need a tune-up now and then.
If you’ve got a legacy M70, you’re holding a piece of history. Preserving it means respecting its rugged design without letting corrosion or neglect chip away at that steel-and-wood majesty.
1. Clean It Like You Mean It
Don’t just spritz and wipe. Field-strip that rifle like you’re prepping for a museum exhibit. A proper cleaner like DRNCH not only dissolves fouling like it’s butter under a blowtorch, but it also conditions the metal and guards against rust.
Focus especially on:
- Gas block and piston (carbon central)
- Barrel (because accuracy matters)
- Bolt carrier and trunnion area (high-wear zones)
2. Oil, Don’t Soak
You’re not making a salad. Wipe with a lint-free cloth, apply light oil to key metal parts, and avoid overdoing it. Too much oil attracts dirt faster than free pizza attracts coworkers.
3. Wood Furniture Woes
Original wood handguards and stocks crack and dry with age. Treat them like a classic guitar:
- Clean with a damp cloth (never soak)
- Use furniture oil or wax to keep the grain alive
- Avoid storing in damp or overly dry conditions
Modern ZPAP Models: New Blood, Same DNA
Zastava USA’s modern ZPAP M70 rifles are like the legacy M70’s chiseled grandkids—better optics mounts, diverse finishes, and tighter tolerances. They’re built to run, but even athletes need recovery time.
Whether you’re eyeing the classic lines of the ZPAPM70 ZR7762SRA or rocking a tactical beast like the ZR7762CBG, care and storage make a huge difference in long-term reliability.
4. DRNCH It Regularly
This cleaner isn’t snake oil—it’s the holy grail of bore-care. Use DRNCH for deep cleaning after every range session, especially with corrosive ammo. Modern M70s are chrome-lined, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible.
5. Polymer Furniture Perks
Many modern PAPs come with polymer furniture, like the ZR7762RTF or ZR7762MPF. These kits resist warping and cracking—but they’re still susceptible to sun damage and grime. Clean with a mild detergent and soft brush. Skip the abrasive nonsense.
Storage Tips: No Rifle Left Behind
Let’s say you’ve got a ZR7762RT, ZR7762SRGL, and a ZR7762MLB just chilling in the safe. First off—congrats. Second, let’s make sure they age better than 90s jeans.
6. Avoid Foam-Lined Cases for Long-Term Storage
Foam holds moisture. That means rust. If you must use a case, choose one with a desiccant packet and breathable lining.
7. Use a Dehumidifier in Your Safe
Don’t let your safe become a sauna. Throw in a dehumidifier or silica gel packs. Your rifles will thank you in reduced pitting and zero moldy smells.
8. Cycle the Bolt Regularly
Even if you’re not shooting weekly, work the bolt occasionally. Keeps springs from developing memory and ensures smooth operation.
When to Upgrade: Modern Comfort Meets Classic Cool
Zastava offers an entire buffet of upgraded ZPAPM70 models. Here are a few that blend historical character with modern appeal:
- ZR7762LM: Great blend of old-school aesthetics and robust internals.
- ZR7762XR: All about tactical versatility.
- ZR7762WMGL: Classic grenade sight vibes, minus the Cold War tension.
If your legacy model is showing wear or you just want a backup for your backup’s backup, check out the wide ZPAP lineup here.
Range Rituals: Caring on the Go
Long-term care doesn’t stop at home. When you hit the range:
- Bring a cleaning cloth and oil in your bag
- Avoid setting the rifle down on gravel, mud, or suspiciously sticky tables
- Wipe down after shooting, especially if ammo was dirty (we’re looking at you, steel-case warriors)
Bonus tip: Always carry a basic field cleaning kit, even if you think, “It’s just a few mags.” That’s exactly when something gunky happens.
Conclusion: Care Is an Act of Respect
Preserving legacy M70s isn’t just about resale value—it’s about carrying on a tradition. Whether you’re running a vintage stamped beast or the latest ZR7762CFL, your rifle tells a story. Clean it, oil it, and let it age gracefully—just like your favorite pair of boots or that cast iron skillet no one’s allowed to touch.
Zastava’s legacy lives on not only in Serbian factories and battlefields of the past but also in every well-maintained rifle on a weekend range in America.
To explore the full family of M70s—old soul or new hotness—visit Zastava Arms USA.
