When you think of concealed carry, a few words probably come to mind: compact, dependable, and—if we’re being honest—something that won’t poke you every time you sit down. Zastava Arms, a Serbian powerhouse with decades of firearms experience, has delivered precisely that with its line of pistols that punch way above their size class.
Let’s break down why Zastava pistols might be your next best friend for everyday carry. Whether you’re a seasoned permit holder or just joined the concealed carry club, this article will cover everything from firepower to comfort (and yes, even fashion—because holster choices matter).
1. What Makes a Great Concealed Carry Pistol?
Before diving into specific models, let’s set the stage. A good concealed carry pistol checks a few boxes:
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Compact size: Easy to hide, even in the summer with fewer layers.
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Manageable recoil: Because you actually want to hit your target—not the tree behind it.
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Reliable operation: It must go bang every time.
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Ergonomic design: It should feel like an extension of your hand, not a brick.
Zastava Arms gets it. These aren’t just cut-down service pistols—they’re purpose-built with concealed carry in mind.
2. Zastava CZ999 SC: A Compact Beast
The Zastava CZ999 SC is the compact sibling of the full-size CZ999. Don’t let the “SC” (short for “Subcompact”) fool you—this pistol brings serious firepower to the table with a 9mm chambering and double/single action trigger system.
Key Features:
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Caliber: 9mm
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Capacity: 10 rounds (enough to feel secure, not enough to get cocky)
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Frame: Alloy with a steel slide—lightweight but solid
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Sights: 3-dot system for fast target acquisition
The CZ999 SC is ideal for concealed carry thanks to its reduced barrel length and slim profile. It slides into an IWB holster like it was born there. Plus, the ambidextrous decocker makes it friendly for southpaws (finally, some love for the left-handed crowd).
This pistol is also refreshingly non-finicky with ammo. Whether you’re running FMJs or high-end defensive loads, it eats without complaint.
3. Zastava CZ999: Full Size, Still Concealable?
Wait, what’s a full-size pistol doing in an article about concealed carry?
Well, believe it or not, some folks do carry full-sized handguns. Maybe you’ve got a tall frame or the world’s most forgiving wardrobe. If that’s you, the CZ999 offers extended control, greater sight radius, and slightly better recoil management—all while keeping the same reliable action as its SC counterpart.
Highlights:
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Caliber: 9mm
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Capacity: 15 rounds—yes, you read that right
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Same alloy/stainless steel combo
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Ergonomic grip design
The CZ999 gives you a more authoritative feel in the hand. It’s especially great for winter carry when coats offer extra concealment. Just be warned: your hoodie pocket might not love the bulk.
Still, it’s an excellent home-defense AND carry option. Two birds. One pistol. Very Balkan efficiency.
4. Don’t Forget the Holster
🔗 Shoulder Holster for M57A, M70AA, M88A
A gun without a holster is like a dog without a leash—free-spirited but wildly inappropriate in public.
Zastava offers a dedicated shoulder holster designed for its classic models like the M88A. While not the traditional choice for concealed carry, shoulder holsters shine in colder climates or for drivers who spend a lot of time seated. You don’t want to dig into your waistband when you’re buckled in tighter than a burrito.
This leather rig balances the pistol under one arm with spare mags on the other side—very Bond, very functional. It’s also surprisingly comfortable, especially when you’re rocking it with a jacket or blazer.
5. Accuracy and Reliability: No Compromises
Let’s get something straight—Zastava pistols aren’t just about being affordable. They’re battle-tested designs that prioritize function. Serbian police forces and military units use these sidearms regularly. So if you’re worried about whether your pistol will run when needed, rest easy.
Zastava barrels are cold-forged, which means longer service life and better accuracy. The slide-to-frame fit feels tight and clean—none of that rattle-and-roll business you’ll find on cheap clones.
And yes, Zastava triggers won’t win Olympic gold medals, but they break consistently and reset cleanly. Which, frankly, is what matters when adrenaline’s doing the cha-cha in your veins.
6. Concealed Carry With Confidence (and Style)
Concealed carry isn’t just about shoving a pistol in your waistband and hoping for the best. It’s about building a system you can trust daily. Zastava delivers on that with:
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Ergonomics that don’t punish your hand
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Safeties that make sense
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Durable finishes that withstand sweat, lint, and life
You also get the benefit of European-style craftsmanship without the snooty price tag. Zastava pistols won’t require you to take out a second mortgage. Unless you want to accessorize with gold grips. (No judgment.)
7. Zastava’s Hidden Gem: The M88A
We’d be remiss not to give a nod to the Zastava M88A—a compact, all-steel pistol chambered in 9mm. It’s not on the U.S. website at the moment, but it often shows up on the market in great condition.
The M88A fits the concealed carry role like a glove. Solid weight, manageable recoil, and clean lines make it a favorite for minimalist carriers. If you find one in good condition, grab it before someone else does.
8. The Final Word: Concealed Carry Made Simple
Zastava doesn’t play games. Their pistols are built for real-life use—not flashy Instagram range days. With the CZ999 SC, the CZ999, and accessories like the shoulder holster, you’ve got a complete concealed carry setup that won’t break the bank—or your back.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to add a rugged European piece to your carry rotation, Zastava offers something worth considering.
So next time someone asks you what you’re carrying, you can say, “Zastava.” And when they look confused, just smile and say, “It means business. Serbian business.”
🔗 Visit Zastava Arms USA and explore their lineup—because carrying concealed shouldn’t mean compromising.
