When someone mentions “Zastava,” most AK enthusiasts instantly picture classic Serbian craftsmanship, a thundering M70, and that sweet wood grain stock that smells like Cold War victory. But the story of Zastava Arms isn’t stuck in a 1980s action movie montage—it’s alive, evolving, and, surprisingly, now includes a suburb of Chicago.
Yes, you read that right. Zastava in Des Plaines, Illinois, isn’t just a warehouse full of boxes with Cyrillic labels. It’s a modern hub fine-tuning the legendary AK platform for American shooters, collectors, and anyone who likes their rifles built like tanks and as reliable as death and taxes.
Let’s take a trip from Kragujevac to Illinois and see how Zastava’s U.S. facility is rewriting the book on AKs—without forgetting the chapters written back in Serbia.
A Serbian Legend Lands Stateside
For over 170 years, Zastava has been the pride of Serbian firearms manufacturing. The company has been building guns since before the lightbulb was invented. It’s been through kings, communists, and capitalists—and somehow emerged stronger every time.
Zastava’s relationship with the Kalashnikov platform began in the mid-20th century and evolved into iconic models like the M70, M85, and M92. These rifles quickly became favorites not just in Eastern Europe, but in conflict zones, jungle outposts, and training ranges around the globe.
The craftsmanship was never in question. But to truly compete in the modern U.S. firearms market, Zastava needed more than just historical clout. They needed boots—or maybe boots and toolboxes—on the ground.
Enter Des Plaines.
Why Des Plaines?
If you’re wondering why a Serbian firearms icon picked Des Plaines, Illinois, for its U.S. HQ, you’re not alone. The answer is refreshingly practical: logistics, accessibility, and a robust local shooting community.
Located just outside of Chicago and close to O’Hare International Airport, Des Plaines provides the ideal infrastructure for importing, warehousing, quality control, and distribution. It also allows Zastava Arms USA to remain close to major freight routes and retail networks, while offering quick service for warranty work and upgrades.
And let’s be honest—if you’re going to build battle-ready AKs in the U.S., you might as well do it with Midwestern grit and some good Polish sausage on your lunch break.
AKs, But Smarter: What’s Different in Des Plaines?
This isn’t just a showroom or a mailroom. The Zastava in Des Plaines facility upgrades the classic AK platform for the American market in ways that are both technical and tactical.
Here’s what’s happening under the hood:
1. Rigorous U.S. Quality Control
Zastava Arms USA puts every rifle through strict quality assurance, including headspace checking, component testing, and functional reliability runs. If it doesn’t run like a Swiss watch (but with a lot more recoil), it doesn’t make it out the door.
2. Tailored U.S. Compliance
American import laws are as complex as an AK’s simplicity is legendary. Zastava in Des Plaines handles compliance modifications, such as U.S.-made furniture, fire control groups, and other 922r regulation tweaks. This ensures the rifles are 100% street-legal—well, range-legal.
3. Enhanced Finish and Fit
American shooters are picky—in a good way. The U.S. facility often improves finish work, tightens tolerances, and ensures fit and finish meet the expectations of collectors and shooters who are used to modern ARs but want the soul of an AK.
4. Custom Parts and Accessories
Want that M70 with a folding triangle stock, or an M90 with a Zhukov handguard? The Des Plaines team can help match the rifle to your dream setup. It’s like Build-A-Bear, but it growls instead of squeaks.
5. Customer Support That Gets It
Ever tried emailing a factory in Eastern Europe about a stuck mag release? Yeah, good luck. Zastava in Des Plaines bridges that gap with American customer support, responsive service, and a team that speaks fluent Kalashnikov and English.
Upgraded Legacy: M70, M90, ZPAP, and Beyond
Since setting up shop, Zastava Arms USA has been busy. The ZPAP M70 is now one of the most popular AKs on the American market—and for good reason. It retains the classic feel of the Yugoslav design but meets modern standards thanks to the Des Plaines touch.
Even more exciting, the M90 has stormed into the 5.56 scene, giving AR shooters a familiar caliber in a whole new (old-school) platform. From milled receivers to chrome-lined barrels, the U.S. facility ensures that these rifles perform as well at a Texas range as they do on a Balkan hillside.
Oh, and for purists, the underfolders are still a thing. Nostalgia and shoulder pain go hand in hand.
From Kragujevac to Des Plaines: A Journey 170 Years in the Making
Zastava didn’t just set up shop in the U.S. to sell more guns. This move represents a deeper commitment to blending heritage with innovation.
If you haven’t already, check out this article for the full story of how a factory in Kragujevac became one of the most respected names in firearms history. Spoiler alert: it includes royal rifles, partisan warfare, and some serious machining excellence.
Des Plaines is the next chapter in that legacy—a place where precision meets passion, and old-world craftsmanship meets American ingenuity.
So What’s Next?
Zastava in Des Plaines continues to grow. The facility’s team actively listens to the AK community, takes feedback from the range, and rolls out small but impactful improvements.
We’re talking:
- New rifle variants tailored for hunting, competition, and tactical use.
- Limited-edition commemoratives that celebrate Zastava’s long history.
- More U.S.-made parts and furniture options to give shooters a bigger sandbox to play in.
Rumor has it there might even be a few surprises on the horizon—but mum’s the word for now. Just know that if it’s wearing the Zastava crest, it’s not here to mess around.
Final Thoughts (and a Nod to the Motherland)
Whether you’re a longtime AK collector or just dipping your toes into the world of stamped steel and slant brakes, Zastava in Des Plaines represents the best of both worlds. Serbian soul, American precision, and a little bit of that Midwestern elbow grease.
And yes, it still takes a bayonet.
Explore Zastava’s legendary history here, and keep an eye on the next generation of AK excellence coming straight out of Illinois.
Ready to join the legacy?
Visit the homepage and see what’s in stock. You might just fall in love with steel and wood all over again.
