The CZ Shadow 2 is among the most popular sport shooting firearms, and therefore replacing the base pad will very likely apply to you. This can increase the magazine capacity, improve the grip, or optimize the weight distribution. If you are planning to equip the firearm with a magwell, you even have to replace the base pad.
The base pad is the part of the magazine located on its bottom side. It is usually made of plastic or metal (brass, aluminum, steel).
The basic starting point for choosing one is compatibility with the model. After that, it depends on what you expect from the replacement. We will go through everything step by step so that you have a clear understanding when making your decision.
Compatibility with the model
All accessories must primarily fit your CZ model. In this category, you will find base pads specifically intended for the following CZ models:
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CZ Shadow 2,
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CZ Shadow 2 OR,
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CZ Shadow 2 Orange,
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CZ Shadow 2 SA, and other Shadow 2 models
In general, base pads can be divided into three main groups:
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CZ 75-type base pads – for CZ P01, CZ Shadow 2, CZ SP 01, CZ 75, CZ 75 Compact
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CZ TS-type base pads – for CZ TS 2 models (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
Within a single group, base pads are mutually compatible even if they do not share an identical shape. As the owner of a CZ Shadow 2 model, the first group is the one relevant to you.
Why replace the base pad on your CZ and which one to choose
By replacing accessories, you can better adapt your firearm to the purpose for which you use it, and base pads are no exception. Now we will go over everything that such a change can achieve and how to make a good choice.
Faster magazine ejection
A heavier base pad ensures that after pressing the release lever, the entire magazine drops out of the firearm more smoothly and quickly. This is useful, for example, in dynamic sport shooting, where every second counts. A
heavier brass base pad or a
base pad with increased capacity will serve this purpose best.
Higher durability
Metal base pads absorb impact on the ground better and protect the magazine body from damage.
Increased capacity
In competitions or tactical shooting, you may be interested in the possibility of increasing the magazine capacity. The number of additional rounds is indicated by the +xrnd number in the product description. The capacity can be increased by up to 8 rounds.
Legal restrictions
In some countries, magazine capacity is limited by legislation. In such cases, you will likely have a “pinned”/restricted magazine. It is restricted from the top side and you cannot increase its capacity. However, the magazine will be visually extended.
Better grip during reloading
A magazine that fits the hand better is easier to handle. Manufacturers of aftermarket base pads take this into account and design them to improve the ergonomics of the entire magazine. Some base pads are specifically shaped to enhance ergonomics during reloading.
Installation of a magwell
If you decide to install a magwell, its mounting will be obstructed by the front part of the base pad, therefore you will have to replace it with one that is compatible with the magwell.
Whether a given base pad can be used with a magwell or not can be found in the description of each product.
TIP: Together with the magwell, you also need to install
short grips.
Aesthetics
The base pad is visible at first glance, and therefore you can use it to complement the appearance of your firearm and adjust it to your liking. The aluminum ones are produced in many color variants that satisfy even the highest user demands.
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 a favorable price.
Some shooters prefer brass. They are driven by its higher weight and the associated advantages of faster magazine ejection, better weight distribution during shooting itself, and higher material durability.
Other shooters, on the contrary, primarily seek polymer because they want to lighten their firearm.
Can I replace the base pad myself?
Yes, you can replace it yourself without the help of professionals.
There are several types of attachment, so the procedures vary slightly. You can find a visual guide on our CZ Parts YouTube channel.
Remember:
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Always verify that the chamber is empty.
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When removing the base pad, proceed carefully so the spring and follower do not pop out.
![CZ Shadow 2, CZ 75B, CZ P-01, CZ 75 SP-01 alu TS base pad | +1.5rnd [for IPSC Box]](https://www.cz-parts.com/deploy/img/products/3191/tn_3191.jpg "CZ Shadow 2, CZ 75B, CZ P-01, CZ 75 SP-01 alu TS base pad | +1.5rnd [for IPSC Box]")
