Compared to its predecessors, the third generation of the legendary BREN assault rifle can be recognised at first glance by the modern M-LOK aluminum handguard. The entire new BREN series from Česká Zbrojovka, CZ for short, consists of six different basic models with barrel lengths from 7 inches (180 mm) to 16.5 inches (420 mm). The barrels are chrome lined for maximum durability. All optional barrel lengths and further technical specifications can be found in the table below. The new models also include special versions such as the ultra-compact CZ BREN 3 7" SR with A-TEC A-Flow silencer located under the handguard. The modular design ensures mission-specific versatility, allowing the rifles to be quickly converted with folding and length-adjustable or extendable PDW (Personal Defence Weapon) stocks, for example. It goes without saying that the new assault rifle series has already passed all standard military endurance tests (immersion, salt water, icing, sand, safety drop, case barrel obstruction) with flying colours.
Česká Zbrojovka launches the new CZ BREN 3 assault rifle family with six models
The BREN 3 models with polymer lower receiver and aluminum upper receiver work, like their predecessors, with an indirect gas impingement system with short-stroke gas piston and multi-lug rotating bolt. They have a freely accessible, tool-free adjustable three-position gas block in the front handguard area.
The adjustable gas regulator is an essential feature in the event of extreme fouling or in suppressed mode. The BREN 3 assault rifles, which are consistently designed for ambidextrous operation, have AR-style controls (45° safety/fire selector and magazine release) on the lower receiver with interchangeable grip backstraps. The bolt catch/release is located inside the front trigger guard area. The optional single or double-sided, folding charging handle, which is non-reciprocating, also serves as a forward assist. The trigger units are factory-set to a trigger pull weight of 2,500 g and have 7 mm travel and 4 mm reset, which supports targeted, quick single-shot fire. The rifles are equipped as standard with seven interfaces at relevant positions for the individual attachment of quick-detachment sling swivels and thus tactical rifle slings. Typical factory-fitted accessories for the CZ BREN 3 rifles include the Spuhr RDF-20225K mount and the Aimpoint COMP M5 red dot sight in combination with the Aimpoint 3-Mag 1 magnifier. Assault rifles from the BREN series are known to have been adopted by the Czech and Hungarian armies as well as the French GIGN anti-terrorist unit. The list – from Argentina to Zambia – includes over 20 countries where CZ BREN rifles are in service.
Technical specs of the new CZ BREN 3 series assault rifles
Model: | CZ BREN 3 7" SR | CZ BREN 3 9" | CZ BREN 3 7" PDW |
Caliber: | .300 Blackout | .300 Blackout | 5.56x45 mm |
Magazine Capacity: | 30 rounds | 30 rounds | 30 rounds |
Barrel Length: | 7"/180 mm | 9"/229 mm | 7"/180 mm |
Twist Rate: | 1:5" ( 4 grooves) | 1:5" (4 grooves) | 1:7" (6 grooves) |
Muzzle Thread: | 5/8-24 | 5/8-24 | 1/2-28 |
Stock: | Folding, 4-position telescopic | PDW 1+3 position telescopic | |
Length (with stock folded/unfolded): | 565/760 to 830 mm | 520/715 to 785 mm | -/550 to 725 mm |
Weight: | 3.6 kg* | 3.1 kg | 3.0 kg |
Notes: | All weights without magazine, all models with M-LOK handguard systems, *with A-TEC AA-Flow silencer fitted as standard on this model. | ||
Here you can see the official manufacturer's video for the new CZ BREN 3:
Further technical specs of the new CZ BREN 3 series
Model: | CZ BREN 3 11" | CZ BREN 3 14.5" | CZ BREN 3 16.5" |
Caliber: | 5.56x45 mm | 5.56x45 mm | 5.56x45 mm |
Magazine Capacity: | 30 rounds | 30 rounds | 30 rounds |
Barrel Length: | 11" (280 mm) | 14.5" (367 mm) | 16.5" (420 mm) |
Twist Rate: | 1:7" (6 grooves) | 1:7" (6 grooves) | 1:7" (6 grooves) |
Muzzle Thread: | 1/2-28 | 1/2-28 | 1/2-28 |
Stock: | Folding, 4-position telescopic | ||
Length (with shoulder rest folded/unfolded): | 569/763 to 833 mm | 656/850 to 920 mm | 709/903 to 973 mm |
Weight: | 3.1 kg (3.15 kg**) | 3.3 kg (3.35 kg**) | 3.4 kg (3.45 kg**) |
Notes: | All weights without magazine, all models with M-LOK handguard systems, **with optional rail handguard and folding steel sights. | ||
Also on show for the first time at Eurosatory 2024: new CZ GL grenade launcher in 40x46 mm NATO
To match the new BREN 3 assault rifle, there is also the newly developed, compact and lightweight CZ GL grenade launcher in 40x46 mm NATO, which can be attached to the rifle or used as a stand-alone weapon with an additional 4-position telescopic stock. In the former version it weighs only 1.16 kg and in the latter version it weighs 2.15 kg. The CZ GL with ambidextrous safety and trigger safety has a double action only (DAO) trigger with a pull weight of 5,000 g. The manual safety has a 60° travel to prevent any unintentional activation of the grenade launcher. A tactile and visible loaded chamber indicator rounds off the safety package. An innovative feature is the 6.5 inch (163 mm) long "Hybrid Double Layered" barrel, which is made from a combination of monolithic aluminum and polymer body. The grenade launcher can, of course, be loaded from the right or left side and mounted underbarrel on any STANAG 4696 mounting rail of an assault rifle. Mechanical folding sights are included as standard.
You can find out more about the manufacturer's military and civilian products on the CZ website.
