Both firearms are based on the legendary CZ Shadow 2 model – they retain its ergonomics and accuracy, but in compact dimensions suitable for all‑day carry and self‑defense. They are also often used as service pistols.
The base pad is a seemingly inconspicuous component on the bottom part of the magazine, whose replacement can easily achieve an adjustment of the firearm’s characteristics. We will gradually go through what exactly the replacement affects and how to choose the right one. But first, we will focus on the main criterion for the selection.
Compatibility with the firearm
All accessories must above all fit your CZ model. In this category you will find base pads intended for the following CZ models:
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CZ Shadow 2 Compact
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CZ Shadow 2 Carry
All base pads can essentially be divided into 3 groups:
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CZ 75–type base pads – for CZ P01, CZ Shadow 2, CZ SP01, CZ 75, CZ 75 Compact
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CZ TS–type base 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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Base pads for polymer models – for CZ P10 models (except CZ P10M, which has a thinner magazine), CZ P07, and CZ P09
You will be interested in the first group – the CZ 75 type. Base pads in this group do not all look the same nor have an identical shape, but they fit all firearms within the group.
Note: Compatibility largely matches
magazine compatibility. Therefore, if a certain type of magazine fits various CZ models, the corresponding base pads will be similarly compatible.
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 the purpose for which you use it. What exactly should you focus on when choosing?
Faster magazine release
Based on simple physical laws, a heavier base pad ensures that after pressing the magazine release lever, the entire magazine will come out of the firearm more easily and more quickly. This feature is appreciated especially by sport shooters, but it is also useful for duty pistols. You can best support this effect with a heavier base pad – metal or one with increased capacity.
Higher durability
Metal base pads better absorb impact when hitting the ground and protect the magazine body from damage.
Increasing capacity
Many base pads are designed to increase the magazine capacity. With the CZ Shadow 2 Compact and Carry models, this can be increased by up to 8 rounds. The number of extra rounds is indicated by the +xrnd marking in the product description.
Legal restrictions
In some countries, magazine capacity is restricted by legislation. In such cases, you will likely have a “pinned”/restricted magazine. It is restricted from the top, and no base pad will increase its capacity. The magazine will, however, become visually longer.
Better grip during reloading
Some base pads are specifically shaped to significantly improve ergonomics. The more contoured they are and the more they protrude, the better you can grip them during reloading. However, you will notice an improvement in ergonomics with any base pad in our offer.
Installation of a magwell
If you decide to install a magwell, its installation will be obstructed by the front part of the base pad, therefore you will need to replace it with one that is compatible with the magwell.
Whether a particular base pad can be used with a magwell or not can be found in the description of each product.
TIP: When installing a magwell, you also need to mount short grips.
Esthetics
The base pad is visible at first glance, and therefore you can use it to complement and tailor the appearance of your firearm, even if only by color. The aluminum ones are produced in many color variants that satisfy even the highest demands of users.
Material
In our offer you will mostly find aluminum base pads, which are the most popular among our customers. Aluminum combines sufficient durability, reasonable weight, and affordability.
Some shooters prefer brass. They choose it for its higher weight and the associated advantages of faster magazine drop‑out, better weight distribution during shooting itself, and greater material durability.
Can I replace the base pad myself?
Yes, you can replace it yourself without the help of a professional.
There are multiple types of attachment, so the procedures differ slightly. A visual guide can be found on our CZ Parts YouTube channel.
Remember:
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Always check that the chamber is empty.
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When removing the base pad, proceed carefully so that the spring and follower do not pop out.