Is there no end to Predom Lucznik army surplus pistols?

[45flint]

I wonder if this relatively recent crop of Predoms could be a resurrection of the original pistol of the late 1970’s, but with more corners cut, possibly originating from China? This happened with the Czech Tex 3 air pistol, a good quality pistol of the 1970’s, which was closely copied in China in the late 1990’s and which was then sold up to about 2005 under various brand names. Parts were interchangeable with the original Tex, but of poorer quality.

As far as is known, the original Predoms were made only up to about 1980. The company was in financial difficulties by 1990 and was declared bankrupt in 2000.

I wonder about this because I have owned a minty 1978 Predom for many years, and when I compare it with my equally minty LP53 I can’t honestly say that I can see that much difference between their build qualities. Yes, the front sight is not adjustable, the rear sight is not as cosmetically slick (although equally functional), and the grip lacks a thumb rest, but I can’t discern any major differences between finish quality, trigger sensitivity, muzzle velocity, general heft or weight.

Although the LP53 is undoubtedly the better gun, IMO the Predom still has some better build features than the LP53. The barrel is bored from solid steel, is deeply rifled and has a traditionally blued finish. In contrast the LP53 barrel consists of a steel tube sleeved into an alloy outer tube, and has a chemical anodised type finish that does not wear well. The solid steel barrel of the Predom probably accounts for its slightly heavier weight.

It would be interesting to know if these currently prevalent Predoms have different markings to the 1970‘s guns. For example, are they stamped PREDOM LUCZNIK on the rhs of the receiver, and date stamped along with a 5 figure serial number on the rhs of the barrel housing?

Interesting thought but I doubt that the one I got is a Chinese copy. For one these are Polish surplus trainers. Mine came and it was no doubt used but not that much. But the internals definitely had the look of grease and lubricant that was totally dried out. I cleaned everything no way was this a new gun. I soaked the leather seal in 30W nondetergent oil for a while and it was fine. Not worn out but lubricant dried out. Mine has serial numbers on barrel along with date 1975. I think in comparing to the LP53, they may have varied in finish quality over the years. But my mint 1955 LP is a much better pistol. I can give you the steel blued barrel argument but the sights, trigger, and fit and finish don't compare with my LP53. Still have to do more shooting with Predom, only have had 10 pellets through it.