Original Czech Cold War Era CZ-Brno Rv85 26.5mm Flare Launcher Rifle With Case – Serial Number 0340 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. In 1985, the Czech Government issued a design requirement for the RV85. RV stands for “Rucni Vrhac” or in US translation, “Hand Thrower”. The intentional use of the RV85 is still sketchy, but one thing is certain, this launcher was made to do more than fire signal flares. Research has shown this was used by the Czech Special Forces Unit to fire rocket assisted tear gas canisters and barrier penetrating rounds. The RV85 is a classic cold war era Czech military weapon. Less than 3,000 were made and according to the importer, less than 1,000 made it into the US.

The RV-85 is 37 inches in overall length with a barrel that is 19.75 inches. The bore is 26.5mm as are the flares. Commercial flares and smoke rounds are still available but may take some searching to locate. Flip up sights are set for 50-75-100 yards. The front sight is a hooded blade that is dovetailed to a base that is banded to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a rotating sight that is a square notch with two white dots marked “50” in one position. The sight rotates up to an aperture with a square notch and two white dots at the bottom as well as a square on top of it that also has two white dots.

The stocks are three piece smooth wood with a grooved forestock, and separate pistol grip piece, fluted straight comb, sling swivel front and rear, and a brown ventilated CZ recoil pad. The wood shows scattered light rubs consistent with storage wear. There are no chips or cracks.

This rifle retains nearly all of its blued finish with nice crisp markings. The action of the flare rifle is still smooth and operates flawlessly though we have not test fired it. All parts with a serial number are matched (S/N 0340). Included with the flare rifle is the original green canvas carry case with leather accents and buckles. There is no extensive damage present with the case but there are signs of slight storage wear.

A lovely, hard to find flare launcher that comes more than ready for further research and display.