Kosa, Scorpion, Pumpička: Can You Decode Shooting Slang?

Shooting slang is full of expressions that may sound unusual to outsiders, yet carry clear meaning within the community. What lies behind nicknames like Kosa, Pumpička or Scorpion? In this article, we’ll explore their origins, usage and historical context—and show that similar language is shared by shooters around the world.

In many ways, shooting is a hobby like any other—and like any community, it comes with its own slang. Train enthusiasts have their own nicknames for locomotives, car lovers do the same for their favorite models. And what about us shooters?

CZ Scorpion EVO 3, a modern evolution of the “Scorpion” concept, shown with a red dot sight and adjustable stock alongside pistols and spare magazines. Photo: Rigad

Pumpička (Submachine Guns 24/26)

If you hear someone say they went to the range with a “pumpička,” there’s no need to worry—they weren’t fixing a flat tire. Pumpička is a familiar nickname for the good old submachine guns 24 and 26.

One detail worth noting is the use of the designation “vz.” (short for vzor, meaning “model”). In this case, it doesn’t apply in the same way as with some other firearms of the period. The term was originally used for earlier versions chambered in 9 mm Luger—namely the submachine guns 23 and 25, which were introduced into service as vz. 48a and 48b. The designation was changed later on, reportedly in part to confuse the “imperialist enemy” watching from across the western border.

So where does the nickname pumpička come from? Just take a look at its shape. It closely resembles a classic hand pump—the kind almost everyone used to have at home, and many still do.

Unlike a bicycle pump, however, the pumpička didn’t stay in service for long. By the late 1950s, it had been phased out and replaced by the more modern vz. 58.

Kosa and Pádlo (vz. 58 Rifle)

There’s a Czech saying that goes, “Even a hoe can fire when God wills it.” And it turns out this applies to more than just gardening tools—take the kosa, for example.

We’ve already mentioned the vz. 58, a legendary rifle that served in the Czechoslovak military for decades and can still be encountered in reserve service today. In Slovakia, it has remained in use in certain roles even in recent years.

The nickname kosa (scythe) is commonly used for the vz. 58, although it technically refers only to the airborne variant with a folding stock, designated “V.” Its shape does, in fact, resemble a scythe.

The standard “P” (infantry) version with a fixed stock is nicknamed pádlo—literally “paddle.” Whether anyone has ever tried paddling with it is another question. Probably not the best idea—but as they say, necessity is the mother of invention.

The padesátosma, as the rifle is also often called, is a true icon. Ask almost anyone who went through mandatory military service, and chances are they’ll have a story about it—often involving how they managed to earn a bit of extra leave with it.

Sa vz. 58 in the P (infantry) configuration with a fixed stock. This version is commonly nicknamed “pádlo” (“paddle”), while the term “kosa” (“scythe”) properly refers to the folding-stock airborne variant.

Scorpion (vz. 61)

Last but not least among famous Czechoslovak firearms is the Scorpion—the vz. 61. Often described as a precursor to the modern PDW concept, this compact weapon is so iconic that even many non-shooters can recognize it—and most simply call it the Scorpion.

The name refers to its distinctive folding stock, which flips over the top of the weapon toward the muzzle, resembling a scorpion’s tail. And that’s not the only similarity—like its namesake, the vz. 61 is small, compact, and surprisingly effective.

There’s also a well-known story connected to its development. At the time, there were doubts about whether a firearm could combine near-pistol compactness with practical usability. Otakar Galaš, a member of the development team, famously demonstrated its compact size by carrying it concealed in an underarm holster to a meeting—then pulling it out from under his jacket in front of everyone present. After that, it was hard to argue that such a weapon couldn’t be carried discreetly.

Shooting Slang Around the World

If you thought these kinds of nicknames were just a uniquely Czech quirk, think again. In reality, they’re a common part of shooting culture, and firearms slang exists in one form or another all over the world.

Take the American Grease Gun, for example. The M3 submachine gun earned this nickname thanks to its resemblance to a period grease applicator—much like our own pumpička.

The Mauser C96 pistol is often called the “broomhandle,” referring to its distinctive grip, which really does resemble the handle of a broom.

And finally, there’s the now largely forgotten Colt Browning M1895 machine gun, nicknamed the “potato digger.” The name comes from the operating lever of its gas system, which swings downward during firing in a motion that could, at least in theory, be used to dig up potatoes.

Fun Factor at a Reasonable Price

And what’s the best part about today’s topic? All three of these iconic representatives of Czechoslovak firearms design—each with its own distinctive nickname—are still available today at relatively reasonable prices.

Of course, that depends on holding the appropriate firearms license, and they are only available in semi-automatic versions. But make no mistake—each of them is genuinely fun to shoot.

Speaking from personal experience, I own all three, and every time I take them to the range, they still manage to put a smile on my face.