Norinco NZ 85B Review

When it comes to budget-friendly pistols with a military heritage, Norinco often finds its way into the conversation. The Norinco NZ 85B, a Chinese-made clone of the legendary CZ 85, is no exception. Combining rugged durability with an affordable price tag, the NZ 85B has gained a loyal following among gun enthusiasts who want performance without breaking the bank. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in and explore the key features, pros and cons, and what it’s like to shoot this intriguing pistol.

Bottomline

It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters, beginners, or anyone who appreciates the CZ design but doesn’t want to spend a fortune.

Norinco NZ 85B Specs

Caliber	Capacity	BBL	OAL	Height	Width	Weight
9mm	15+1, 10+1	4.62″	8.11″	5.7″	1.46″	37.6 oz.

A Brief History of Norinco and the NZ 85B

Norinco, short for China North Industries Corporation, is well-known for producing firearms with a focus on practicality and cost-efficiency. While their products have been the subject of political debates and import restrictions in some countries, their reputation for making affordable and reliable firearms remains strong.

The NZ 85B is essentially a clone of the CZ 85, itself a variant of the iconic CZ 75. Designed in the 1970s in what was then Czechoslovakia, the CZ 75 set the standard for modern double-action/single-action (DA/SA) pistols with its steel frame, excellent ergonomics, and high magazine capacity. The NZ 85B takes those same design principles and packages them in a no-frills, cost-effective firearm.

Key Features of the Norinco NZ 85B

• Steel Frame and Slide: The pistol has a full steel construction, giving it a sturdy and durable feel. This also contributes to reduced recoil, making it easier to control during rapid fire.
• DA/SA Trigger: Like the CZ 85, the NZ 85B offers a double-action/single-action trigger system. This means you can fire the first shot in double-action mode, with a longer and heavier pull, and subsequent shots in single-action mode, with a lighter and crisper pull.
• Ambidextrous Controls: One standout feature is its ambidextrous safety and slide stop, catering to left-handed shooters.
• High Magazine Capacity: The pistol comes with a 15-round magazine, which is competitive for a full-size 9mm handgun.
• Military-Inspired Design: Its roots in the CZ 85’s military pedigree shine through in its rugged design and straightforward functionality.
• Affordable Price: Perhaps the most appealing feature, the NZ 85B is significantly cheaper than many of its competitors, including the CZ 85 itself.
• Easy Maintenance: Field-stripping the NZ 85B is simple, making cleaning and maintenance hassle-free.

Shooting the Norinco NZ 85B

On the range, the NZ 85B is a pleasant surprise. The weighty steel frame soaks up recoil, making it comfortable to shoot even during extended sessions. The sights are basic but functional, and the accuracy is more than adequate for most casual shooters. Rapid fire is manageable thanks to the ergonomic grip and the pistol’s natural pointability.

However, the trigger is where things get tricky. The double-action pull feels heavy and somewhat gritty, which could throw off your first shot if you’re not used to it. The single-action pull is better but still lacks the crispness of a higher-end pistol. With practice, though, these quirks can be overcome.

Is the Norinco NZ 85B Right for You?

If you’re looking for an affordable, rugged pistol with a military-inspired design, the NZ 85B deserves a spot on your radar. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters, beginners, or anyone who appreciates the CZ design but doesn’t want to spend a fortune.

That said, it’s not without its flaws. The heavy trigger, lack of aftermarket options, and inconsistent quality control are notable drawbacks. If you’re willing to invest a little more, you might find better options in the CZ lineup or other mid-tier pistols. But if you’re on a tight budget and want a reliable range or home defense gun, the NZ 85B is a solid contender.

Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews

Final Thoughts

The Norinco NZ 85B is a classic example of “getting what you pay for,” but in a good way. It’s not the prettiest or most refined pistol on the market, but it delivers solid performance at a price that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a fan of military-style firearms or just need a dependable 9mm without emptying your wallet, the NZ 85B is worth considering.

Just be prepared to work with its quirks and possibly invest a bit of time in smoothing out its rough edges. In the end, you’ll have a dependable workhorse that gets the job done without a fuss. And that’s something any shooting enthusiast can appreciate.