[TFB GUNFEST] NEW 5.56 AK – The Zastava Arms M90
Zastava Arms arrived at TFB’s GunFest 2021 with the brand new PAP M90 PS. The Serbian made Zastava M90 is being imported by Zastava USA to satisfy customer requests for a full size 5.56 AKM pattern rifle. In addition to its larger size, the Zastava M90 is packed with new features while maintaining the quality and consistency Zastava is known for.
NEW 5.56 AK – The Zastava Arms M90
Adjustable Gas System
At the front of the gun there’s a very important feature on the M90; A three-position adjustable gas block that’s almost identical to the one used on the larger Zastava M91.
The new three-position gas block allows shooters the ability to tune the gun based on conditions, ammunition, and suppressor use. Setting 3 (the most gassed) is used for the first 200 rounds while the rifle is breaking in, and then you can switch to setting 2 for normal use. Setting 1 is the lowest gassed and is for suppressed or high-temperature use.
Adjustments to the gas block can be made by removing the handguard or by lifting up the small leaf spring and rotating the block to its new position.
New Furniture
In order to make the rifle 922r compliant, Zastava added a new Magpul ZKUKOV-s Stock and MOE Grip to the rear of the rifle. The stock folds out of the way and to the right for transport, and the MOE grip is comfortable and gives the user additional storage space inside the grip.
At the front of the rifle is a very comfortable OverMolded Handguard from Hogue.
The Hogue rubber handguard is the perfect blend of modern function and comfort. It features additional M1913 Picatinny rails (not pictured) that can be added for to use of accessories.
Zastava USA confirmed also that existing M70 furniture (including wood) would fit the rifle, and that multiple options would be available at launch.
New Polymer Magazines
New polymer magazines were also unveiled alongside the Zastava M90 rifle. In addition to the 5.56 magazines already available, Zastava will be bringing new 30 round polymer magazines to the market this year as well.
These new polymer magazines feature a rear steel-reinforced locking block as well as a last round bolt hold open (LRBHO) follower. Designed to both meet and exceed military standards, the new polymer LRBHO mags will be available sometime this February and will retail for $24.99. Steel Magazines without LRBHO will still be available for $39.99. Zastava confirmed that one magazine will ship alongside the new M90 rifle.
Final Thoughts and First Shots
- Barrel Length: 18.25″
- Barrel Coating: Chrome Lined (Chrome Lined Chamber)
- Twist Rate: 1:7
- Muzzle Thread Pitch: 14x1LH
- Gas System: Long Stroke 3-Position Adjustable
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO / .223 Rem
- Receiver Thickness: 1.5mm
- Handguard: Hogue Rubber Handguard (w/ rail mounting points)
- Pistol Grip: Magpul MOE
- Stock: Magpul ZHUKOV-S (Additional Options Coming After Launch)
- 922r Compliant Parts: Muzzle break – Foregrip – Pistol Grip – Stock – Magazine
- Price: TBD (Competitive)
- Release Date: Pre-Summer 2021
The author is a military contractor who enjoys conducting independent firearms research and reloading. Article inquiries and suggestions are welcome at austinjrex at gmail.com
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Now if they can just bring back the AR15 mag adapter, this thing would be tits up! As it is,...I have no reason to get excited.
Will this M90 work with Bosnian AC Unity 30-round and 45-round polymer 5.56 AK magazines?
The AC Unity mags have metal reinforced front and rear locking lugs and metal reinforced Yugo-style bolt-hold-open follower and clear side windows, yet cost only about $14 each (30-rounders), much less than most 5.56 AK mags. The vendor RTG Parts states "these work in most Yugoslavian 5.56mm M90/M85," but it would be nice to hear from Zastava which magazines work.