Lightening a Shadow 2 Slide?

[BobRockefeller]

I've seen a number of Shadow 2 slides lightened to make IDPA weight. Some cuts expose the barrel towards the muzzle, Others reduce the slide thickness at various points. And some add in a direct milling for a RDS.

Is there a consensus on where to cut and how much to take off in those places? Especially if there will be no cut for an RDS?

[no.vale.la.pena]

I would say your best bet would be to go with an established company that has done hundreds to low thousands of Shadow 2 cuts, namely Primary Machine or Fire-4-effect; especially if you want to do a cut without an RDS.  These companies specialize in Shadow 2 milling, have done the internal R&D on their cuts and have had their work tested by numerous customers. Plus I am sure they would be able provide estimates on expected weight reduction. The cuts come at a cost premium, but if you are going to mill a slide you might go with something proven versus risking an unknown and ruining a slide. 

I have not personally owned a Shadow 2 milled by either but I have seen plenty work well in my local USPSA circuit and they seem to be very well regarded. I have not seen any (that I recall) in IDPA matches but I don't shoot many IDPA matches, and the ones I do have most of the competitors in SSP or CCP divisions.