CZ Shadow 2 Compact & Carry – lighter and smaller sisters of the CZ Shadow 2
The newest additions to the CZ Shadow 2 family designed for EDC, defense and as service pistols. They retain high-quality ergonomics, trigger and accuracy, however in smaller and more compact dimensions. Shooters who liked the classic CZ Shadow 2 model and are looking for a handgun for daily carry reach for these models.
How the magazine works and what can be improved
A magazine consists of several main parts. Each has its specific function; some can be replaced for better weapon performance.
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Body: the main part where cartridges are inserted, usually made of polymer, aluminum or steel.
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Spring: pushes the follower up inside the magazine body, thus feeding cartridges into the chamber. It’s the part most prone to wear — its strength decreases, causing feeding malfunctions.
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Follower: a plastic part on top of the spring, where cartridges rest.
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Base pad: holds the spring and follower inside the magazine body. Shooters often replace this part of the magazine. Why?
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Better durability when dropped,
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Better weight distribution, where a heavier base pad improves the pistol’s behavior thanks to optimized weight balance,
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Increased magazine capacity.
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Possible ergonomic features for a more comfortable grip.
Why consider getting a new magazine?
There are several reasons why you might want a new magazine:
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Wear: Even if you clean the magazine thoroughly and regularly, it’s a consumable item and wears out. A new magazine guarantees quality and reliability.
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Damage: Rough handling, drops, or pressure can cause damage.
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More magazines = more convenience: Usually you get two magazines with the gun. Constantly reloading you, especially during training or competition, will slow you down — it’s much more comfortable and efficient to have several magazines you can simply swap.
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Increased capacity: A longer magazine holds more cartridges.
How to choose the right magazine
When choosing a new magazine, consider the following criteria:
Compatibility with the model
Magazines from other compact models – the CZ P-01 and the CZ 75 Compact – are compatible with the CZ Shadow 2 Compact. Theoretically you can also use magazines for full size models (
CZ 75 and Shadow 2), but they will be longer and therefore will protrude. This can worsen ergonomics and complicate the grip.
On the contrary, magazines for compact models never work in full-size models, because due to their shorter length they do not seat deeply enough.
We cover the issue of magazine compatibility by model in detail in the
CZ Magazines Compatibility Guide, where you can find exactly which magazine can be used in which model.
Caliber and length
Magazines differ, among other things, in length. In some cases, a longer magazine can be used in a shorter CZ, but never the other way around — a shorter magazine won’t seat deeply enough and won’t feed rounds into the chamber. A longer magazine increases capacity, but because it protrudes, it may worsen ergonomics and make handling more difficult.
Capacity
Capacity determines how many cartridges fit in the magazine. Although it relates to length, the two parameters aren’t interchangeable — magazines of the same length can have different capacities.
By purpose
Both models are primarily carried concealed, so you will appreciate a shorter, lower-profile magazine and a light base pad (not brass).
Magazine maintenance tips
Proper maintenance extends the magazine’s lifespan and ensures reliability.
Cleaning
Clean your magazine after every training session, competition and use.
Disassemble it according to the manual and wipe the body and base pad free of dust, gunpowder residue, and excess lubricant. Clean the inside of the body, follower and spring with a soft brush or cloth.
Lubrication
Use high-quality lubricant and apply it in a thin layer. Excess oil unnecessarily attracts dust.
Storage
Store magazines in a dry and dark place.
If you don’t use the magazine for a longer period, store it unloaded to avoid unnecessary stress on the spring.
Pre-use inspection
Check that the base pad isn’t cracked and fits properly. Examine the spring and follower.
Multiple magazines
If you own several magazines, they should be rotated regularly. It’s also useful to keep several spare springs on hand.
