POTD: Arma Zeka BARK9 - Czech-Slovak PCC Collaboration
In today’s Photo Of The Day here at TFB, we shine a spotlight on the BARK9, a collaborative creation from Puškařství Haluza of the Czech Republic and Slovakia’s Balko Rifle. At first glance, the BARK9 echoes familiar design cues from the M16, M4, and AR-15 platforms, but as you look closer, you’ll find a distinctively Central European approach. The BARK9 uses the complete magazine well and trigger mechanism from the CZ EVO 3.
Chambered in 9×19mm (with optional 9×21mm), the BARK9 operates via a blowback system and is available in both self-loading pistol and rifle configurations, depending on the barrel length.
Available with barrels ranging from 195mm to 420mm, the BARK9 adapts to various operational needs — from compact personal defense weapon to full-length training carbine. As mentioned, the Scorpion EVO 3 magazine well and trigger group are fully integrated, providing rugged reliability and magazine commonality with one of Europe’s most proven SMGs.
Machined from lightweight alloy and fully compatible with AR-15 components — grips, stocks, and forends — the BARK9 offers a familiar feel with a uniquely tuned heart. It's divided bolt mass shifts recoil impulse closer to the shooter’s shoulder, reducing felt recoil and improving control during rapid fire.
Whether used in sport shooting, home defense, or tactical training, the BARK9 blends Eastern European durability with Western modularity.
You can find out a little bit more at https://www.bark9.cz/
Images by the author and BARK9.
Ex-Arctic Ranger. Competitive practical shooter and hunter with a European focus. Always ready to increase my collection of modern semi-automatics, optics, thermals and suppressors. TCCC Certified. Occasionaly seen in a 6x6 Bug Out Vehicle, always with a big smile.
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They put the CZ Scorpion trigger module into a 9 mm AR 15.
Why?
The trigger module is the worst part of the mostly excellent Scorpion.
The magazine release is too short and most Scorpion users replace it with longer ones.
The safety is hated by many and is the first part replaced.
This 9 mm AR comes with a short barrel and even longer barrels are available.
After a certain length, there is no more velocity or accuracy gained from a 9 mm.
Putting the ambidextrous charging handle in the middle is a clever idea.
But they left a gap that goes through both sides of the gun.
That seems like an invitation to debris entering the action.
And the gun won’t lay flat on either side.
I have to say I don’t see a reason for this.
If you have lots of Scorpion mags, why not shoot a Scorpion?
They have long barreled Scorpions available.