Zenith MKE Z43P HK53 Clone 5.56 NATO 12.5” Semi-Auto Pistol, Brace, 2015
SOLD FOR: $2,725.00
LSB#: LSB250809NF030
Make: MKE, Turkey, Zenith Import
Model: HK53
Serial Number: T06424-15 BF00152
Year of Manufacture: 2015
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Roller Delay Blowback, Fed by Detachable Magazines.
Markings: The left side of the magwell is marked, “MKE Z43P 5,45×45 T06424-15 BF00152”. The right side of the magwell is marked, “Zenith Firearms Afton, VA / Turkey”.
Barrel Length: 12.5” Threaded 1/2 x 28 with flash hider.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded post set into the triple frame. The rear sight is a four position adjustable diopter/rotary drum.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This pistol has a two piece furniture set with a slim textured handguard, and thumb shelf pistol grip integral to the trigger housing. The rear of the receiver has a SB side folding pistol brace. The triple frame has a sling loop and the magwell has a 3-point sling hook. There are minimal handling marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The furnature rates in about Excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None.
Type of Finish: Black Enamel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are light chips in the enamel along with light handling wear. The screw heads are sharp and pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol rates in about Fine + condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. The bolt gap is 16 thousandths.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This Zenith Z43P is a faithful semi-automatic pistol clone of the legendary HK53—a compact, roller-delayed blowback rifle chambered in 5.56 NATO and designed for high mobility, control, and reliability. Manufactured by MKE (the Turkish state arsenal licensed by Heckler & Koch) and imported by Zenith Firearms in 2015, the Z43P is regarded as one of the highest quality civilian HK53 clones ever offered in the U.S. market. With a 12.5” threaded barrel, diopter drum sights, and classic slimline handguard, this pistol captures the look, feel, and performance of its select-fire military counterpart while remaining fully semi-automatic for civilian ownership. Built using HK-spec parts and tooling, the Z43P features a roller-delayed blowback system known for its smooth recoil impulse and reliability under adverse conditions. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, and the bolt gap measures .016”, which is nearly perfect. It is fitted with a side-folding SB Tactical pistol brace, giving the platform enhanced stability while retaining its pistol designation. The black enamel finish shows light wear and small chips consistent with careful use, with approximately 97% finish retained. The markings are crisp, and the furniture—including the thumb-shelf grip and textured handguard—is in Excellent condition with no cracks or damage.
HK enthusiasts know how difficult it is to find high-quality HK53-style firearms in the U.S., and the Zenith Z43P fills that niche with precision manufacturing, excellent parts compatibility, and Cold War-correct aesthetics. Whether used as the foundation for a registered SBR project, kept in its current pistol configuration, or added to a collection of roller-lock firearms, this is a reliable and accurate platform with pedigree and presence. -R.E.
