CZ-97 B in .45acp caliber

[JAH 3rd]

I don't know about you guys and gals, but when I get something on my mind, it festers there until I act.....usually by purchasing what is on my mind. Well the old brain (literally) is bouncing around the CZ-97 B or BD which is a .45acp. I see they are now showing up online after months, if not years, of being out of stock.

The pistol is certainly heavy and large. It will either be for me a range or house pistol. Trigger reach may be an issue for the first DA shot. The "B" model can be cocked and locked, while the "BD" is a decocker version. Reviews appear to be positive. Any thoughts or hands-on experience with this 97? Thanks in advance!.....Jesse

[iveschris]

I have an older - imported early on in the days of current CZ USA ownership - '97. It was called (IIRC) a "Police Model" for some reason. Mine's blued (really well) and has front slide serrations with a flattened slide on top. These '97s have a threaded bushing which contributes to the gun's accuracy. I finally put slimline, polymer grips on the piece, though it's a challenge to shoot one-handed.

The piece shoots well, very well. My son put his first ten rounds into one ragged hole at 5 yards the first time he fired it with S&B ball. I have carried it without much difficulty, though not often since I don't have a good leather holster for it and I don't want to mar the great blueing training/carrying the '97 in a kydex holster.

Do you have any specific concerns or questions?

My EDC is a Cold Bore Custom-grip reduced/finger grooves removed Glock 21.

[KevH]

I remember someone brought one to the range probably around 1998 or 1999. It was wearing a set of Hogue finger groove grips. The owner asked me if I wanted to shoot it for a bit. A few boxes of 45 ACP later and I was in love. I have to say it was one of the most ergonomic and pleasant shooting pistols I've ever fired and to this day. I think of it very fondly and every now and then get a hankering to buy one.

With that being said, I've never purchased one because I have no practical use for it. It is a BIG and HEAVY pistol and anything that it would do a 1911 or a USP 45 would do more efficiently for me. So if I were to purchase one it would just be a range toy and I don't have money burning a hole in my pocket.

[LittleLebowski]

Really nice, really huge pistol.

[LockedBreech]

For practical purposes, I think a M&P 2.0 4.6" .45 or HK45 are better choices.

That said, I bought a CZ-75B Omega in February of this year simply because I wanted one. I am content with it and happy with the purchase. If getting one would scratch the itch, I can't see any harm in that.

[Dave Williams]

I remember back in the day Col Cooper talking about the development of this pistol and his disappointment when it came out. Too big.

[Lon]

It’s hard to go wrong buying a pistol that’s monster hunter approved for use in killing various undead.

38879

Sorry, I’m currently re-reading the MHI series and that just popped into my head.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=monster+hunter+international&sprefix=monster+hunter+inter&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_20

[tgoldie00]

I purchased a copy a few weeks ago (the BD version as I am presently spending a bit fo time on my DA/SA pulls).

Outside of one little issue quite prevalent across the board (specifically the Loaded Chamber Indicator hex screw walking out - easily remedied with a little blue LocTight and about 30 seconds) I have not had a single issue at now just through 300 rounds.

I is a large pistol, no questioning this whatsoever. It manages to feel good in the hand despite its size, and balances well with a loaded magazine present. The DA pull isn’t as good as a Shadow/Shadow 2/Shadow Line Compact - but I wasn’t expecting it to be. It is on-par with other DA/SA CZ pistols that have the firing pin block installed - which is to say one can feel that about half-way through the DA pull. If one gets the B - and carries Condition 1, they would never experience it. The SA is a clean break with a little takeup...call it a “2 stage” trigger but very smooth.

The pistol shoots very flat....much moreso than a typical government 1911, so precision shots are not too hard to come by even at reasonable distance. Recoil is very manageable...probably average for something of its size.

If you have any more specific questions, please feel free to ask!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[1911Nut]

I purchased a CZ 97B from CZ Custom here in Mesa, AZ a few months go. Had them convert it to SAO, remove the FPB, and install an adjustable rear sight along with a F/O front sight. Also tuned the action. It is a really nice pistol and very, very accurate. Naturally, it is a large pistol, but the only place I really notice it is in the grip length (front to back), and with my large hands (size 12 gloves), it is not an issue at all. It is surprising how close the exterior dimensions are to my CZ 75 SP01 Shadow pistols. It weighs 49.2 oz. when full up (10+1) with 230 gr. ammo. Recoil is about like a typical 9mm steel pistol with 124 gr. ammo.

[JAH 3rd]

Do you have any specific concerns or questions?

My EDC is a Cold Bore Custom-grip reduced/finger grooves removed Glock 21.[/QUOTE]

No concerns or questions. I have a H&K USP 45 full-size and it's a big pistol too. I was just curious of opinions, especially from those who have shot or owned one. Thanks to everyone for their responses!

[Lon]

CGW 97BD for sale. I have no dog in the hunt. Just saw it and though of this.

https://czfirearms.us/index.php?topic=103290.0

[MattyD380]

This is one gun I've always kinda known was there... and just haven't given a lot of thought to--until recently.

When I was researching .45s in non-concealed carry oriented sizes, the 97 inevitably crossed my mind. I've never actually seen one. But it seems... charismatically large. Like something a modern-day Sonny Crockett would carry... in a shoulder holster, of course.

Most seem to say they shoot really well. One question: would it be a total no-go for small hands? (i.e., trigger reach)

[tgoldie00]

This is one gun I've always kinda known was there... and just haven't given a lot of thought to--until recently.

When I was researching .45s in non-concealed carry oriented sizes, the 97 inevitably crossed my mind. I've never actually seen one. But it seems... charismatically large. Like something a modern-day Sonny Crockett would carry... in a shoulder holster, of course.

Most seem to say they shoot really well. One question: would it be a total no-go for small hands? (i.e., trigger reach)

I wouldn’t say it’s a no-go definitively (what is your glove size to help approximate?).

The base of the grip is quite wide, but like most CZ pistols, one can really grip up on it, and the grip tapers towards the top. Have you been comfortable handling any other double stack .45 (HK, Glock, etc)? If you have and have been fine, I see no reason why the CZ 97 would be any different.

The only way to really tell is get your hands on one and find out for sure.

[jeep45238]

I purchased a CZ 97B from CZ Custom here in Mesa, AZ a few months go. Had them convert it to SAO, remove the FPB, and install an adjustable rear sight along with a F/O front sight. Also tuned the action. It is a really nice pistol and very, very accurate. Naturally, it is a large pistol, but the only place I really notice it is in the grip length (front to back), and with my large hands (size 12 gloves), it is not an issue at all. It is surprising how close the exterior dimensions are to my CZ 75 SP01 Shadow pistols. It weighs 49.2 oz. when full up (10+1) with 230 gr. ammo. Recoil is about like a typical 9mm steel pistol with 124 gr. ammo.



May as well have them install a barrel bushing while they're in there :)

[Dave T]

I have a close friend of 40+ years who has been a 1911 devote all that time. His one quirk is not wanting his 1911s cocked when they are not in a holster on his belt. Since he is also a dedicated 45 ACP fan and he has very large hands, I recommended he look at the CZ-97B. I went with him when he found one and once he had a look and got the feel of it he bought it. He is quite pleased with the gun and now has several thousand rounds through it. No malfunctions that weren't ammo related.

His problem with it and any other gun without a SA trigger is the DA first shot. When he wears it it is cocked-n-locked but any other time, when it is in a case or the drawer by his bed, the hammer is down. For that reason he has spent considerable time working on his first pair and the transition, from DA to SA. He has some mastery of it but complains that he must constantly train or the skill deteriorates. I have shot the gun (SA only) and as stated above it is heavy (and large) and consequently very easy to mange in recoil control. It feels like it just sets there waiting for the next trigger press.

Dave

[1911Nut]

"May as well have them install a barrel bushing while they're in there"

I seriously considered installation of a bushing, and, can of course have that work done at a later date if desired. I have shot the pistol with only three different types of ammo so far (230 gr. factory JHP, 230 gr. factory FMJ, and 230 gr. MG 230 gr. CMJ hand load). All three have been very accurate, shooting at or near the same size groups as my Wilson Combat and Ed Brown .45 ACP 1911 pistols.

[MattyD380]

I wouldn’t say it’s a no-go definitively (what is your glove size to help approximate?).

The base of the grip is quite wide, but like most CZ pistols, one can really grip up on it, and the grip tapers towards the top. Have you been comfortable handling any other double stack .45 (HK, Glock, etc)? If you have and have been fine, I see no reason why the CZ 97 would be any different.

The only way to really tell is get your hands on one and find out for sure.

To be honest, I couldn’t say what my glove size is—which seems odd that I don’t know that. I’ve shot an HK45... seemed okay. Owned a HK45c. DA was a bit of a stretch... some measure of hand readjustment was inevitable for the transition. Even a 1911 with long trigger is a reach for my fingers.

[JAH 3rd]

I bought the above CZ about 6 months or so ago. Have taken it out once, so today, I took her to the range today. I shot 150 rounds of American Eagle 230 full metal jacket. 100% function. This baby really soaks up recoil with a steel frame and full dust cover. A friend at the range who is CZ addicted tried 4 magazine through it. He was really impressed with the accuracy of the pistol. He is quite a bit younger than me, which translates into younger eyes. He easily put 5 rounds in a 1 inch circle, freehand at the 7 yard line. After the 4 magazines, he commented about the accuracy and trigger pull, both of which he was impressed with. He also shot at a gong ( 8-10 inch diameter ) from the 25 yard line and kept it moving with each shot.

This pistol has a chamber loaded indicator assembly. It consists of a small plate, a screw, a spring, and small indicator rod that protrudes up when the chamber is loaded. I had read that the screw which attaches the assembly to the slide can work loose. With my first outing, sure nuff, the little screw loosened. Another shooter had some blue loctite. He applied a drop to the screw threads and tightened it up just snug. I did not shoot the pistol any further that day in order for the loctite to set. Today, I kept a check on that screw and it held tight. All in all, a good day!

[awp_101]

Are our resident 97B owners still happy with them? Because...

I don't know about you guys and gals, but when I get something on my mind, it festers there until I act.....usually by purchasing what is on my mind.

72505

[Evil_Ed]

I have one and yeah...it's big, heavy, super soft shooting, and very accurate. I had a Bar-Sto barrel fitted to mine for...reasons.

72511

I actually have a set of rubber grip swell grips on it now as the factory aluminum ones were just too thin for me..

Edit - It's in the same size category as a USP in 45 for me, and I kind of wish I could find a good AIWB holster for it...

[JAH 3rd]

At the time I bought my CZ 97BD, I was under the impression it was somewhat of a unicorn. Rarely seen and scooped up quickly when available. I also used this thinking when I bought my Ruger P-90. I read when it was being discontinued (years ago) so I bought one. Don't regret it, but kinda see that it lagged behind in several areas when compared to the competition.

My observations since shooting the ole 97. It is a large, bulky pistol. For me and my hands, the DA first shot is a bit of a stretch. The SA mode feels more natural, easier to access the trigger. The grip has a nice beaver tail which I like. Helps anchor the pistol in my hand. The grip also reminds me (somewhat) of the 1911 from the comfort/feel in the hand.

Its been 100% functioning in all aspects. If I had a choice between the 97 or the S&W M&P 45 full-size, I would take the Smith. Both 10 shot with similar length barrel. That first DA trigger pull sways my opinion to the M&P. I use the 97 for a range gun. I know I could send it off to CGW to address the DA trigger but since I don't shoot it that much I don't want to invest the money.

Gonna keep it. Only have the 2 mags that came with the pistol. My Glock 30 is about 3 weeks old and up to 11 mags on that one, if that tells you anything!!

[Evil_Ed]

Yeah it helps if you have large hands for that DA pull. You could get the safety version and carry cocked and locked...but I got it specifically with a decocker because I prefer that DA first pull.

Installing a CGW hammer spring and a couple of other tidbits were pretty easy and worth the price of admission, and it really helped both DA and SA trigger pulls. Then again, I went into it with a decent understanding of the sear cage, and a bunch of spare lifter springs :o

If you don't grok the sear cage...yeah, best to let CGW, CZ Custom, or someone else tackle that work. It can be frustrating, not to mention those lifter springs add up eventually...

[Gary1911A1]

Not to rain on anyone's parade, but I think one of the Witness .45 pistols are a better choice. Not as large and the trigger reach is shorter. The thumb safety is also easier to reach for small handed shooters. I had a CZ 97 and tried to love it, but it was to large in the areas mentioned and the feed ramp looked steeper than the Witness so I got the Witness and Megar K2 Magazines for it. Even got a matching copy of it in 10MM.

[claymore504]

I had always been curious about the 97 as well. I am a big CZ fan anyways, so decided to pick one up when I found a good deal. Well I found one a couple weeks ago and went for it. I was watching a BD model, but was concerned about the DA trigger reach. Well, I ended up passing on the BD and very glad I did. The DA reach is way too long for me to use it that way. I have not fired mine yet, but hope to soon. it is more of a collector piece for me anyways.


https://i.imgur.com/4UZUzX6.jpg?1

[1911Nut]

I've got a 97B that has been converted to SAO with a straight trigger and action job from CZ Custom. It is a very easy .45 ACP to shoot. And very accurate.

[awp_101]

I've got a 97B that has been converted to SAO with a straight trigger and action job from CZ Custom. It is a very easy .45 ACP to shoot. And very accurate.

That’s kind of the idea kicking around in my head. This would be just a range toy so the inability of my stubby digits to easily run the DA is a non-factor.

I’ve had steel and poly Witnesses in the past. Nothing against them and they’re great bargains if you can get them for 2010-2014 prices. When the prices started bumping up after that it was hard for me not to justify spending “a little more” for the CZs.

[Joe in PNG]

It's odd, but a CZ97 in .45 interest me in a way that a 1911 in .45 doesn't.

[Hemiram]

I bought a CZ97B about the same time as a Witness 45. The 97B was a little picky on ammo when I got it, but I sent just the entire slide assembly to some guy out west, I can't remember his name, but I got it off a CZ forum and when it came back, it gobbled up anything. The Witness ate everything out of the box, and honestly, I liked it better. I sold off the 97B for almost what I paid for it, including the feedramp work, and kept the Witness, which has eaten a lot of .45 ACP up at this point. Of my .45 semiautos, I like the SAR K2 45 a little better than the Witness, but they all are great guns. I don't have huge hands, but none of the above guns caused me any problems shooting it DA. I just wish I had waited for a SAR in stainless. One of these days...

[Dave Williams]

I was able to handle a 97B yesterday. I wear 2XL gloves and I could barely reach the thumb safety. Felt great in the hand though.

[JonInWA]

It's been lurking in the dim recesses of my mind for years, but from a strictly practical standpoint, my current Glock G21 and 1911s make as much, if not more sese, and if I wanted a new .45 ACP platform, I'd likely look at an HK 45 or HK USP 45, or a Ruger Redhawk .45 Colt/.45 ACP Convertable revo.

Best, Jon

[Nephrology]

Really nice, really huge pistol.

My assessment as well, I'd love to own one one day, but not a high priority

[Joe in PNG]

One of the CZ Customs in 10mm (https://czcustom.com/new-firearms/cz-pistols-custom/czc-97b-10mm.html) is also tempting.