CZ-85 Combat - First Impressions

[obxned]

I just got my CZ-85 Combat in dual tone.  It is definitely a very handsome gun.  I have always loved the look created by the contrast of bright against blued steel since way back in the dark ages when I was building fancy 1911s.  

The slide to frame fit is about the tightest I have ever seen on any pistol at any price. Despite this extremely tight fit, right out of the box racking the slide was absolutely smooth as glass.

The DA pull is smooth but a bit heavy.  The SA pull has the creep from the odd sear angle, but is fairly crisp after that initial creep.  I hope this will improve with use.  

Friday I took it to the range.  The weather was terrible - very cold with the wind howling out of the north.  It was so windy that I did not post a target, but instead shot at a light colored rock in the backstop.  Since my main purpose was function testing, that was okay, and I would leave real accuracy testing for a better and warmer day.  From where the dirt flew up at 55 yards I learned:

1.  This has got to be a very accurate pistol.
2.  It is really easy to shoot it accurately and rapidly.
3.  When I'm concentrating on the sights, I don't notice any shortcomings in the trigger.

I did however discover that when my hands are cold and very dry, I could use some checkering on the front of the grip.

All in all, I am very happy with this pistol.  I think it can become exactly what I want: a pistol as accurate as my old early 70?s slightly tricked-out Colt Gold Cup, with a SA trigger that good, and with a DA trigger just a tough lighter than it is now.  The goal for the trigger will likely require some professional help, but I think it can be done.  In comparing accuracy, I mean with full power loads.  Light target loads do not interest me.  I suspect that with the right load, the CZ may already meet that requirement.

So now I have to pray for warm weather.  I am also waiting for the Kadet adapter and the ? bushel of magazines I?ve ordered.  I do believe this pistol and I are going to have a very busy and fun spring!

[Canuck44]

Excellent!  A lighter mainspring will do wonders with the DA pull.  You might consider a 13# mainspring.  Replacing the stock hammer with a competition hamemr will end the creep you feel and give you a very crisp trigger.   That said it isn't all that bad i stock form.  If you get half the enjoyment out of your 85 Combat as I have you will indeed be a very satisfied shooter.

Take Care

Bob

[obxned]

Actually, right out of the box I would rate it as excellent.  There is still the potential to take it way beyond that.  I plan to use it as-is until the weather turns ugly next winter.  I may put a heavier recoil spring in, but will wait and see on other changes.  I will also try the Hogue grips, although I am not a big fan of finger grooves.

The competition hammer is definitely on my list, but I am not sure about a lighter mainspring.  This pistol must absolutely without fail ignite the primers on any commercially produced ammo available.  A summer of heavy use will give me a much better Idea of what it needs.  I will probably get the work done in the custom shop.

[vinogeek]

I just picked up an 85 Combat today. I also happened to have a #13 Main spring at home. Slapped it in, did a quick clean and lube and went to the range. Put about 150 rounds of WWB through it. Absolutely perfect. I agree it is excellent out of the box. Much better than my 75B was. I plan on putting the CZ Custom hammer in it as soon as they are back in stock at the custom shop.

I am puzzled as to why 85 Combats aren't more popular. Really great guns and a pretty good bargain.