ZK-383

The ZK-383 was a submachine gun manufactured in Czechoslovakia during the interwar period and World War II. Designed by Josef Koucký, it was produced by the Zbrojovka Brno arms factory from 1938 until the German occupation in 1939, and continued under German control throughout the war. The "ZK" designation refers to Zbrojovka Koucký, representing the factory and the designer. The "383" signifies the year of the initial prototype (1938) and the third prototype version.

The ZK-383 was notable for its robust construction, reliability, and relatively high accuracy compared to other submachine guns of the era. It fired the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge and fed from a 30-round box magazine inserted from the left side of the weapon. One distinguishing feature was its bipod, which was integrated into the front of the weapon to improve stability and accuracy during sustained fire.

The weapon saw service with the Czechoslovak army prior to the German occupation. Following the occupation, it was used by German police units and also exported to various countries, including Bulgaria. It was also used in limited quantities by some resistance groups. After World War II, production was continued in limited numbers and the weapon remained in service with some armed forces for a time.