The .308 DMR Reborn: A "Retro-Modern" Zastava M77 Build

The Zastava M77 is a beast of a rifle. Chambered in the hard-hitting .308 Win (7.62x51), it occupies that sweet spot between a standard AK and a full-blown DMR (Designated Marksman Rifle). However, out of the box, the classic Yugo furniture can feel a bit dated for the modern shooter who wants to stretch the rifle's legs.

Today, we’re breaking down a dream build that keeps the soul of the Combloc era alive while injecting serious modern performance. By using a suite of JMac Customs parts—specifically selected for their “Z-pattern” compatibility and tan/retro aesthetics—we are building a rifle that looks like it belongs in a futuristic 80s conflict.

Here is the recipe for the ultimate "Retro-Vibe" M77.

The Chassis: Modernizing the Yugo Front End

The biggest challenge with Yugo-pattern rifles like the M77 is finding furniture that fits their unique specs. JMac Customs has solved this with their MMS (Modular Mounting System).

• Handguard: MMS 14.25Z This 14.25-inch aluminum handguard is the backbone of the build. The "Z" indicates it is designed specifically for Zastava receivers. It extends almost to the muzzle, giving you plenty of rail space for bipods and accessories while free-floating the barrel for improved accuracy—crucial for a .308 DMR.
• Dust Cover: DC-ZAK Forget side rails that add weight and offset your optic. The DC-ZAK replaces the factory dust cover with a hinged, railed top cover that locks into the MMS handguard. It holds zero reliably, providing a stable, low-profile platform for our optic.

The Retro Touch: Wood & Steel

To keep the "Combloc" spirit alive, we aren't going full tactical black. We are mixing in warm tones and classic materials.

• Grip: Bakelite Orange Wood Pistol Grip This is the centerpiece of the "retro" vibe. While it performs like a modern ergonomic grip, it is made of birch laminate and stained a vivid "Bakelite Orange." It pops visually against the black receiver and connects the rifle to its AK heritage.
• Muzzle Device: AKML-14 Rather than a generic modern brake, we chose the AKML-14. This is a faithful reproduction of the original Polish/Soviet flash hider designed for night vision use. It has that distinct, slotted "birdcage" look that screams Cold War tech but effectively suppresses flash for the shooter.

The Stock Assembly: Folding & Functional

We need a stock that handles the recoil of a .308 but folds for transport.

• Adapter: RSA-YFS The M77 has a unique Yugo fixed stock rear trunnion. The RSA-YFS bolts directly on and converts the rear end to a 1913 (Picatinny) rail interface.
• Folder: FM-SM-1913 Folding Mech This heavy-duty steel mechanism attaches to the 1913 adapter, giving the rifle a solid lockup when open and a compact footprint when folded.
• Stock: SS-8RP-T The SS-8RP is JMac's 8-inch Skeleton Stock with a Rubber Buttpad. The "T" stands for Tan, continuing our color theme to match the retro vibe. It’s light, rigid, and the rubber pad is a welcome addition for the .308 recoil.
• Cheek Riser: CRSU Because we are running a scope, a good cheek weld is mandatory. The CRSU (Cheek Riser, Skeleton, Universal) snaps onto the stock, raising your eye line perfectly to the optic.

Control & Accessories

Finishing touches to ensure the rifle handles as good as it looks.

• Handstop: HRD-EXT-T The "Hand Retention Device" in Tan. Mounted on the forward end of the MMS handguard, this gives you a tactile index point to pull the rifle into your shoulder, helping manage the heavy battle rifle.
• Sling Mount: RC-QD-T This Tan Retainer Cover does double duty. It covers the factory sling loop gap on the handguard (preventing heat burns) and provides a modern QD sling socket.

The Optic Package

To complete the DMR role:

• LPVO Scope: A Low Power Variable Optic (1-6x or 1-8x) mounted on the DC-ZAK allows for close-quarters engagement and precision shots out to 500+ yards.
• Bipod: Mounted to the forward M-LOK slots of the MMS handguard, providing stability for long-range shots.

The Result

This M77 isn't just a rifle; it's a statement. The combination of the Bakelite Orange grip and Tan anodized parts (Stock, Handstop, QD mount) creates a stunning two-tone aesthetic that pays homage to the FDE and wood of the past. Meanwhile, the free-float chassis and rock-solid optics mount bring the platform firmly into the 21st century.

It’s heavy metal, retro style, and precision engineering all in one.

Disclaimer: Always ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal laws when modifying firearms.