First Shots: CZ Shadow 2 Compact

New from CZ USA is the Shadow 2 Compact, a compact, aluminum framed version of its traditional double action/single action, steel-framed competition pistol. The standard CZ Shadow 2 measures 8.53 inches overall and weighs 46.5 ounces. The new CZ Shadow 2 Compact is smaller and lighter than its larger cousin, creating a faster-handling pistol with all the accuracy for which CZ is known. The new pistol is also slightly thinner, measuring 1.38 inches compared to the 1.41-inch width of the Shadow 2. The 1 mm fiber optic front and serrated rear HAJO sights giving you the same great sight picture of the original Shadow 2. In addition to this, the new Shadow 2 Compact’s slide is optics-ready right from the factory.

The CZ Shadow 2 Compact is built around the same ergonomics and trigger system that CZ pistols are known for. The shape of the pistol grip and the deeply undercut trigger guard are built for ergonomics, and the slide and barrel sit low inside the frame rails to mitigate muzzle rise. The Shadow 2 has a traditional double action/single action trigger without a decocker, meaning the hammer must be lowered manually to be use the double action on the first shot. There is, however, a manual safety for use when carried as a single-action gun.

CZ Shadow 2 Compact Specifications

• Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds
• Sights: Fiber optic front sight, checkered rear sight
• Height: 5.4 inches
• Length: 7.5 inches
• Width: 1.38 inches
• Weight: 30 ounces
• Trigger pull: 3.4 pounds single action, 10.3 pounds double action
• Trigger travel: .11 inches single action, .19 inches double action
• Frame: Aluminum alloy
• Grips: Duralumin
• Safety Manual safety, safety notch on the hammer

MSRP for the Shadow 2 Compact is $1,299, and to learn more about this new pistol or other products from CZ-USA, visit cz-usa.com.