The CZ 83 is a semi-automatic medium-frame pistol chambered in .380 ACP. The CZ 83 has a blowback design so the initial explosion for gun powder pushes the slide back as well as forcing the projectile out of the barrel.

The CZ 83 has an all-steel construction plastic grips and cold hammer forged steel barrel. During hammer forging a mandrel is carefully passed through the bore to carve the rifled grooves. The process increases durability and precision. Features include a manual safety and fixed 3-dot sights.