A base pad is a part of the magazine located on its bottom side. It is usually made of plastic or metal (brass, aluminum, steel). Shooters often replace it on their CZ pistols for various reasons, which we will go through step by step.
As you read through the reasons for replacement, you'll also easily understand how to navigate your own selection.
Compatibility with the firearm
Compatibility with your model acts as the first branching point for further selection. Base pads for CZ models can be divided into 3 main groups:
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CZ 75-type pads – for CZ P-01, CZ Shadow 2, CZ SP-01, CZ 75, CZ 75 Compact
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CZ TS-type pads – for CZ TS 2 (CZ TS 2 Orange, CZ TS 2 Racing Green & others) and CZ Tactical Sports models (CZ 75 Tactical Sports, CZ TS Orange, CZ TS Czechmate)
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Pads for polymer models – for CZ P-10 models (except CZ P-10M, which has a thinner magazine), CZ P-07 and CZ P-09
Base pads within each group do not have identical shapes; they are simply compatible with one another.
We discuss compatibility with individual models in detail in the article CZ magazine base pads compatibility.
Note: Compatibility essentially matches
magazine compatibility. If a certain magazine type fits several CZ models, the corresponding base pads will typically be compatible as well.
If you don’t want to deal with compatibility across all models, jump straight into the relevant category.
In our offer, you will find base pads for the following CZ models:
Why replace the base pad on your CZ and which one to choose
By replacing the base pad, you can better adapt your firearm to its intended purpose. Now we’ll go over what this change can achieve and how to choose well.
Faster magazine release
When you replace a polymer or lighter (aluminum) base pad with a heavier one (brass, steel, or extended-capacity), the magazine will drop more easily when you press the release. This is useful, for example, in dynamic sport shooting where every second counts, but also in self-defense or for duty guns.
Increased durability
Metal base pads absorb impact better when dropped and protect the magazine body from damage.
Increased capacity
Some base pads increase the magazine capacity. This is often sought after by sport and competition shooters. How many rounds the base pad adds is indicated by the +x rnd marking in the product description. Depending on the model, capacity can be increased by 1–8 rounds.
Legal restrictions
In some countries, magazine capacity is limited by law. In such cases, your magazine will likely be “pinned”/restricted. It is restricted from the top and its capacity cannot be increased. However, the magazine will still appear longer.
Better grip during reloads
A magazine that fits your hand better is easier to manipulate. Manufacturers of aftermarket base pads take this into account and design them to improve the ergonomics of the entire magazine.
Magwell installation
Sport shooters often equip their pistols with a
magwell. On most models, long grips on the front of the base pad interfere with its installation.
Therefore, if you decide to install a magwell, you must get a compatible base pad and short grips.
Whether a base pad can be used with a magwell is always stated in the product description.
An exception is the CZ TS and CZ TS 2 models, which often come with a magwell installed from the factory. Even if they do not, their base pads are compatible with magwells, and if you have no other reason to replace them, you do not need any additional parts when adding a magwell.
Aesthetics
The base pad is immediately visible, so you can use it to adjust and personalize the appearance of your firearm. Aluminum pads come in many color variants that satisfy even the most demanding users.
Material
In our selection you will mostly find aluminum base pads, which our customers prefer the most. Aluminum offers a combination of good durability, reasonable weight, and an affordable price.
Some pistol owners who use their firearms for tactical or sport shooting prefer brass. The reason is the higher weight of brass and the associated advantages: faster magazine drop, better weight distribution during shooting, and higher material durability.
Other shooters primarily look for polymer, again due to its weight. It is the lightest option and is used especially by those who care about every additional gram on their firearm.
Can I replace the base pad myself?
Yes, you can replace it yourself without professional assistance.
There are several attachment types, so procedures vary slightly. You can find a clear visual guide on our YouTube channel CZ Parts.
Remember:
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Always verify that the chamber is empty.
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When removing the base pad, proceed carefully to prevent the spring and follower from popping out.
TIP: If your firearm has a base pad permanently pressed on, have a gunsmith perform the replacement.
