Zastava ZPAP85 556 Serbian Red Brace – Reliable 5.56 AK Pistol

Description

The Zastava ZPAP85 556 Serbian Red Brace (Zastava model ZP85556TBSR) is Zastava’s 10 inch AK pistol chambered in 5.56 NATO, with red Serbian furniture and an SB Tactical TF1913 triangle folding brace. It combines AK operation with the most common rifle cartridge in the US.

Zastava ZPAP85 556 Serbian Red Brace Overview

Lipsey’s lists the ZP85556TBSR as a 223 Rem/5.56 NATO semi-auto pistol with a 10 inch chrome-lined barrel, 1-in-7 twist, 26×1.5mm left-hand threads, Krinkov-style sights, Serbian red furniture, the TF1913 brace, a 30-round magazine, 19.3 inch length and 6.6 pounds. Like the ZPAP92, it uses a 1.5mm receiver with a bulged trunnion.

AR Magazines in an AK

The ZPAP85 is built to take standard AR-15 pattern magazines, so you can share PMAGs and other STANAG magazines with an AR. Some polymer magazines fit tighter than aluminum ones; test yours. This is one of the biggest practical advantages of the M85 design.

5.56 From a 10 Inch Barrel

5.56 loses a lot of velocity from a 10 inch barrel, which reduces fragmentation and range compared with a rifle. The 1-in-7 twist stabilizes heavy 62 to 77 grain bullets. Blast and flash are severe from short 5.56 barrels, so hearing protection is a must.

TF1913 Brace

The triangle folding brace mounts on a rear picatinny section and folds for storage. Practice running the controls folded and open. Brace rules have changed several times; the ATF brace rule was vacated by a federal court in 2024, but check current federal and state law. The brace close-up in our gallery is a Zastava photo of the same red grip and TF1913 brace on the 7.62×39 ZPAP92; the 5.56 ZPAP85 differs mainly in its magazine well and caliber.

Metric Threads

The muzzle is threaded 26×1.5mm left-hand, not the 1/2×28 common on 5.56 ARs. Muzzle devices and suppressor mounts must match. Suppressors require an approved ATF Form 4 and must be legal in your state.

Ammunition Choice

Brass-cased 55 grain FMJ is the affordable practice load. For serious use, choose loads designed for short barrels. Steel-cased 223 can run, but check reliability with your pistol first.

State Laws and Ownership

AK-pattern pistols are banned or heavily restricted in California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Illinois, Washington, Delaware, Colorado and some cities, and many of those states also cap magazines. Pennsylvania has no assault weapon ban or magazine limit, and handgun transfers run through the PICS check. Check your state and local rules and confirm with your receiving FFL before ordering.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Zastava Arms (Kragujevac, Serbia), imported by Zastava Arms USA
• Model: ZPAP M85, ZP85556TBSR
• UPC: 685757099004
• Caliber: 5.56 NATO / 223 Rem
• Action: Gas-operated semi-auto pistol
• Barrel: 10 in. cold hammer forged, chrome lined, 1 in 7 twist
• Muzzle: Threaded 26×1.5mm LH
• Receiver: 1.5mm stamped receiver with bulged trunnion
• Furniture: Serbian red
• Brace: SB Tactical TF1913 triangle folding brace
• Sights: Krinkov-style
• Capacity: 30+1, one 30 rd magazine; accepts AR-15 pattern magazines
• Length: 19.3 in.
• Weight: 6.6 lb (Lipsey’s)

Before You Buy

Federal law requires handgun buyers to be at least 21 years old when buying from a licensed dealer, and this AK pistol transfers at your FFL with a Form 4473 and background check. Check the legal status of pistol braces in your state before ordering.

Who It Is For

The Zastava ZPAP85 556 Serbian Red Brace is a great fit for AR owners who want an AK-action pistol that shares their 5.56 ammunition and magazines.

Buy the Zastava ZPAP85 556 Serbian Red Brace at MAG5 Firearms

MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the Zastava ZPAP85 556 Serbian Red Brace online and ship it to your local FFL dealer, or browse our full selection of firearms for more pistols. For factory details, visit Zastava Arms USA.