At the Eurosatory 2024 defence and military technology trade fair, held in Paris in June, a new single-shot rifle from the Czech armoury of the international Colt CZ Group — the CZ BREN 3 rifle — made its world debut. We asked Markus Staiger, Technical Director of the Czech Armoury, for details about this new product.

Three months have passed since the introduction of the new CZ BREN 3 rifle. What has the response been so far?

From the very beginning, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Our previous CZ BREN 2 platform already enjoys an excellent reputation. In addition to the Czech Army, it is used by the Hungarian Armed Forces, the Mexican Federal Police, the Polish Border Guard, the Romanian Gendarmerie, the Portuguese Military Air Force, and various foreign special forces, including the elite French anti-terrorist unit GIGN. More recently, it has also proven highly effective in the hands of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The CZ BREN 3 builds on this popular series and, drawing on extensive feedback from soldiers, police officers, and special forces personnel worldwide, incorporates many incremental yet significant user improvements. We’re talking about over a hundred different modifications, many of which may not be immediately apparent but have a substantial impact on reliability, accuracy, and durability.

Can you highlight the most important features of the new model?

During development, we paid close attention to ergonomics and overall shooting comfort. We understand the importance of the seamless interaction between the shooter’s body and the gun’s controls. This is the only way to maximize the rifle's potential.

The CZ BREN 3 features an extended forearm made of highly durable aluminum alloy, which allows for easy operation of the three-position gas regulator. The increased forearm area incorporates the mounting interface of the popular M-LOK system, which can be paired with the standardized STANAG 4694 rail. We also offer a version with a forearm that allows easy installation of a suppressor.

The non-reciprocating, ambidextrous charging handle can now be folded during firing. The longer, telescopic, and folding shoulder stock is based on the CZ BREN 2 BR model, designed for the powerful 7.62×51 NATO cartridge. This makes aiming easier and enhances durability. The hinge has been reinforced to make it even more robust. Users will also appreciate that the shoulder stock no longer needs to be removed to disassemble the weapon. Additionally, we offer a variant equipped with a PDW-style armrest that extends to four positions.

We retained the breech housing material, the proven 7075 duralumin, but to enhance durability, we added steel reinforcements in specific areas. The breech has been fitted with a second ejector to ensure maximum reliability, even in the most challenging modern battlefield conditions. The CZ BREN 3 also features a slightly thicker, cold-forged barrel with a chrome-lined bore compared to its predecessor.

Additional enhancements include seven QD (Quick Detach) points for quick-release carrying strap buckles positioned at various points on the weapon.

The CZ BREN 3 is presented as a multi-caliber rifle. What ammunition is it designed for?

We currently offer models chambered in 5.56 × 45 NATO and 300 AAC Blackout — another significant new feature. We have extensive experience with the 300 AAC Blackout cartridge, which is optimized for suppressed shooting, but this is the first time we are mass-producing a semi-automatic rifle for the armed forces in this caliber.

Are there any specific orders for the CZ BREN 3 from the armed forces?

We are confident that such a high-quality product will soon find buyers. Representatives from armed forces and police units will have the opportunity to see the CZ BREN 3 series at all major global defense and security technology exhibitions. This autumn, for example, it will be showcased at the renowned American trade fair organized by AUSA — the Association of the United States Army. In the Czech Republic, the CZ BREN 3 will be on display at the NATO Days event in September.

Is this platform primarily intended for military use, or will it also be used by police forces?

The base version of the CZ BREN 3 is primarily a military weapon. However, thanks to its modular design, we also offer more compact versions suitable for certain police or security force tasks. Police forces have long been important customers for us, and the Colt CZ Group is ready to provide them with a comprehensive modern solution, from CZ short and long guns to 4M TACTICAL gear and Sellier & Bellot ammunition.

In which markets are you aiming to succeed with the CZ BREN 3?

We plan to build on the success of the CZ BREN 2 and attract an even wider range of customers. With the CZ BREN 3 series, we aim to establish a strong presence, particularly in Western markets — in EU and NATO member states. The CZ BREN 2 has provided a solid foundation for long-term partnerships and trust in our products, which customers can rely on in any situation.

How would you summarize your personal feelings about the new CZ BREN 3 platform?

I believe that with this model, we have once again pushed the boundaries of automatic small arms design and production. The modern soldier or police officer can fully rely on the CZ BREN 3, even in the most demanding conditions. All variants, regardless of their specific configuration, offer high accuracy, extreme durability, and excellent shooting comfort. In short, I am truly proud of this series.