CZ Shadow 2 SA (91245) or CZ Tactical Sport

[356robo]

I have the opportunity to buy a new Shadow 2 SA or a new Tactical Sport.  The prices are close enough to not be a consideration. I've handled both.  I'll use the pistol for range only, no organized competition.  I'm an aspiring "trigger snob" that is rapidly learning the joy of really good triggers.  So far, my thoughts are: 

Tactical Sport pros:  the trigger is amazing (2 lbs), with short reset, and minimal take up.
Tactical Sport cons:  The front sight is NOT fiber optic, the grip is thick, magazine prices are high.
Likely future changes: fiber optic front sight.

Shadow 2 SA pros:  better (for me) ergonomics, fiber optic front sight, trigger is good, at a bit over 3 lbs with slightly more reset and take up, magazines prices are reasonable.
Shadow 2 SA cons:  I'll have to spend a little more to lighten the trigger to make it closer to the Tactical sport trigger.
Likely future changes: Trigger & sear parts from Cajun Gun Works

I have likely missed some considerations, so I'm asking for some input from those more knowledgeable than I.  Since I'm new to fine triggers, I don't know what I don't know.  Thanks to all.

[Earl Keese]

For range toy purposes, I'd go with whichever gun is more comfortable ergonomically. FWIW, a TS Orange will feel closer to the S2 than a std TS.

[356robo]

Thanks Earl

[ScoobyDoo]

I think the CGW TRS dropped the pull on my Shadow SA by 1/2 lb.  I was surprised, but that's what happened.

[356robo]

A little research has determined that I'd have to spend a lot, about $400, at Cajun Gun Works to improve the Shadow 2 SA trigger and still can't get it to a Tactical Sport trigger.  So now, I have to decide how important is a slightly better trigger.  Decisions....Decisions.

[coolbox]

Reduced power TRS, CGW
Reduced power main spring (13 lbs is safe), CGW/CZC
Extended firing pin, CGW/CZC
Reduced power firing pin spring, CGW/CZC

These dont cost much.

Additionally, if you want to convert to SAO, what you need is SAO trigger, costs about $35-45 range, from both CGW and CZC.
If you want to maintain the DA/SA, reduced reset disconnector is recommended, CGW/CZC, abt $50. Not needed if converting to SAO.

You do not need a sear.
You may want to get a CGW race hammer or CZ Customs Competition hammer.
This would be $70 to 80 odd. Most expensive item. But not always needed. And, you might need it in a TS too, so even stevens here.

Well under $200.


I would convert to SAO, get a competition hammer, and all the small parts on top of page.

At the end, the TS trigger will end up at about 1.5 lbs after use, and Shadow trigger at about 2 lbs after above mods. I keep the factory main spring and trigger return spring to keep weight over 2.25 lbs in SP01 Shadow, a requirement in local club matches.


EDIT TO ADD
I would pick the one that fits me better, and then work on it as conditions permit.

[Luvdog]

Of the 2, I'd probably go with the S2 SA.  I like the little extras in the frame, mag release, safety, etc over the TS.

Now, if you were talking TSO, then I'd got the the newest version of that since it has those extras.

[em44052]

I ordered the CGW Shadow 2 kit for $238 and installed myself. The Shadow is the easiest CZ to work on IMO and if you have any mechanical abilities at all, this will be fairly easy. There are plenty of videos that will show you exactly how to install the CGW kit and properly polish your components.

[George16]

Go with the TSO. I have both and the TSO is way better.

If you want to spend more, go for the Czechmate.

Either one you choose will be great for range plinking or competition if you decide to do the that later on.

[scroadkill]

well.. to be  a proper trigger snob you will want sub 2#.. and the TSO's single sided trigger bar cuts the drag in half.   

The TSO comes tapped for an Alex rest, and supports LOK palmswells, and large magwell. Once you get your meat hooks locked in and torqued down on the thumb rest and mag well it makes the sights stable and track nicely.

[Tok36]

well.. to be  a proper trigger snob you will want sub 2#.. and the TSO's single sided trigger bar cuts the drag in half.   

The TSO comes tapped for an Alex rest, and supports LOK palmswells, and large magwell. Once you get your meat hooks locked in and torqued down on the thumb rest and mag well it makes the sights stable and track nicely.

Interesting, i never considered that a magwell could support your hand. I have not tried one on any of my CZs. I had assumed that their only purpose was to facilitate the magazine insertion.

[356robo]

OK...I made my decision.  Thanks to all who responded, You gave me lots to think about.  I chose the Shadow 2 SA. Direct comparison revealed to me that for me, the triggers were overall similar. The Tactical Sport trigger was lighter, in both take up and pressure required to release the hammer. but slightly gritty.  The Shadow 2 SA trigger was slightly heavier but smoother.  Since I am still learning about triggers, I think I can use the Shadow 2 SA as is, and if needed, I can lighten the pull. Thanks again to all.

[em44052]

Congrats! Hard to go wrong with either choice.

[scroadkill]

Interesting, i never considered that a magwell could support your hand. I have not tried one on any of my CZs. I had assumed that their only purpose was to facilitate the magazine insertion.

A thumbrest and magwell both provide great contact points to help stabilize the gun during recoil. The magwell is like a thumbrest for your pinky fingers