If its a real ZB37 you can have a look at "Small Arms of the World" in most of its editions. Not a lot written about these guns otherwise.
If you're talking about some semi built by who knows who you need to check with whoever built it or have a look at the semi builders boards.

Good luck
Frank

 

It's a Vz37, or a ZB53 (export Model). There should be info about in Czech and German ( They were extensively used all through WW II, and IDF had quite a few in the 1950s).

Nothing very special about dismantling it, Pragmatic , like most Czech MGs.

Doc AV

Ask Bob Naess at Black River.

 

It's marked ZB. Md. 37, so I'm unsure what service it was manufactured for. The top cover doesn't seem to want to sit flush enough to get the pin at the rear to pop in. Always wary of forcing these things.

 

The "Md" marking is typical of Romanian Guns...so your has come to Ireland via either Romania or arms dealers in Czech Republic. ZB is the Manufacturer ( Zbrojovka Brno)

Being in Ireland (Eire) is it a Euro deact, or just Czech deact? Various Vz37, ZB53s ( and other designations of the same guns) have been available since the 1990s in Independent Czech Republic. ( even "go-ers").

Nice find...Photos please?

Doc AV
(Down Under)

 

Thanks for the info! It's from Germany, I'll get hold of a camera this evening and take some photos.

 

The top cover only closes as far as in the picture, I don't want to force it. I'm sure it's something simple, but I can't see what's sticking.

 

It appears to me that the feed pawl in the feed tray is not properly engaged in its drive. Open the topcover fully. The bolt should be fully cocked since it will not go into battery with the feed pawl out of its drive. On the bottom front of the belt exit tray there is a small knurled lever. Push this lever in while lifting the little tray and lift it out. The feed side tray can now be lifted vertically. It does not need to come all the way out. Lift it up just enough to slide the feed pawl to the left, as viewed from behind the gun, and when the pawl part is extending about 3/8" past the inside edge of the tray let the feed tray down and feel the pawl go into its drive. Settle the feed tray fully down into place. Topcover should close completely. FWIW

 

That was just the thing, bmg17a1. You're a gun wizard, many thanks!

 

Glad to help out. The ZB37 is a very enjoyable MG to shoot. Some minor drawbacks, but a very solid, sturdy and dependable MG. Hope you get to shoot on me someday!