Plizio Visual Lab

HS Produkt Factory

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

factory

Weather…

HS Produkt, based in Karlovac, is a world-leading manufacturer of firearms and represents one of the greatest success stories of the Croatian economy. Founded in 1991 as IM Metal, the company began by producing equipment for the Croatian Army during the War of Independence. International acclaim followed the development of the HS2000 pistol, marketed in the United States under the Springfield Armory brand, which has received several 'Pistol of the Year' awards. Another technological highlight is the VHS bullpup assault rifle, used by the Croatian Army and international special forces. The factory in Karlovac is among the most advanced of its kind globally, utilizing computer-controlled precision manufacturing and cutting-edge materials like high-strength polymers. Over 95% of its production is exported, primarily to the demanding US market. Employing over 1,500 people, the company invests heavily in research and development to maintain its technological edge. HS Produkt is not only a major defense contractor but also a key driver of technological innovation within the Croatian metal industry.

Location: Croatia
Top sights: Karlovački miljokaz · Zorin dom · Spomenik antifašizmu
Nearby: Duga Resa (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	0	1	6	11	15	20	22	22	16	11	6	1
Rain mm	77	87	77	86	107	90	78	92	130	109	116	89

📋 Practical info

🏭

What is this place?

The HS Produkt facility in Karlovac is a globally successful and highly advanced manufacturer of firearms. It serves as a major technological and economic driver for the local region and national export markets.

🚪

Visiting

Due to the military nature of the goods and extremely strict security protocols, the entire factory grounds are completely off-limits to the public. Tourist visits or casual entry are strictly prohibited.

👀

Where to view it

The highly secured compound can only be glimpsed from a distance along the major public roads circumventing Karlovac. High fences and heavy security infrastructure are the most prominent visible features.

🧺

Local products

Given that the facility manufactures firearms, there are no consumer products available for everyday travelers to purchase. The factory's contribution is primarily seen in the region's strong economic stability.

📆

Active season

The facility maintains operations throughout the entire year, with the core manufacturing shifts occurring during standard weekdays. However, the high walls ensure that very little internal activity is noticeable from outside.

➕

Nearby

While the industrial site cannot be toured, Karlovac is famous as the city of four rivers and has the historic Dubovac Castle. Exploring the scenic riverfronts provides a wonderful contrast to the industrial presence.

Geography

Coordinates

45.49400, 15.54800

Facts

Founded in 1991 in Karlovac, originally known as IM Metal.
The HS2000 pistol was voted 'Pistol of the Year' four times in the USA.
The company exports over 500,000 pistols annually to the US market.
It employs more than 1,500 workers at its Karlovac facility.
The VHS assault rifle is used by special forces in Iraq and France.
HS Produkt accounts for nearly 95% of all Croatian defense exports.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Karlovačka Brewery<1 km · NWExplore →

Dubovac Castle Karlovac2 km · SWExplore →

Marib Gas Field6 km · SEExplore →

Duga Resa7 km · SWExplore →

Mrežnica River9 km · SWExplore →

Marib Gas Power Plant13 km · SExplore →

Javorje18 km · SWExplore →

Marib Refinery19 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town HS Produkt Factory (10)

Karlovački miljokaz

Milestone in Karlovac, a historical road marker.

Zorin dom

Theatre in Karlovac, a cultural venue.

Spomenik antifašizmu

Anti-fascist monument in Karlovac.

Hrvatski sokol

Artwork depicting the Croatian falcon.

Gradski muzej Karlovac🏛 museum

Museum in Karlovac, Croatia, with local history exhibits.

ZILIK

Arts centre in Karlovac, a space for creative projects.

Franjevački samostan

Franciscan monastery in Karlovac.

Franjevački muzej🏛 museum

Museum in the Franciscan monastery, with religious artifacts.

Galerija Vjekoslav Karas

Gallery in Karlovac, named after painter Vjekoslav Karas.

Nikola Tesla Experience Center Karlovac🏛 museum

Museum in Karlovac, interactive exhibit on Tesla's life.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does HS Produkt produce?

The company specializes in the manufacture of firearms, particularly pistols.

Where is the factory located?

The factory is based in Karlovac.

Can tourists visit the factory?

No, as a weapons factory, access is strictly prohibited for unauthorized persons.

What is their most famous product?

The HS2000 pistol, marketed in the USA as the Springfield Armory XD.

Does HS Produkt export its products?

Yes, the company exports to more than 40 countries worldwide.

HS Produkt Factory: where is it located?

HS Produkt Factory is located in Croatia.

HS Produkt Factory: what is there to see?

Highlights include Karlovački miljokaz, Zorin dom, Spomenik antifašizmu.

HS Produkt Factory: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

HS Produkt Factory: why is it worth visiting?

HS Produkt, based in Karlovac, is a world-leading manufacturer of firearms and represents one of the greatest success stories of the Croatian economy.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →

Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe

More places in Croatia →