New for 2025: CZ Shadow 2 Target – A Bullseye Shooter’s Dream

The legendary CZ-75 has been a staple in the firearm world since its introduction in the 1970s, inspiring countless designs and custom modifications. While many manufacturers moved toward polymer-framed, striker-fired handguns, Česká zbrojovka (CZ) stayed true to its roots, continuously refining and modernizing its all-metal design. The latest evolution in this lineage is the CZ Shadow 2 Target, a high-performance pistol designed for bullseye competitions. 

CZ Shadow 2 Target – A Dedicated Competition Pistol

From the beginning, the CZ-75 platform has been a popular choice among competitive shooters, leading to the creation of the Shadow 2 in 2016. The Shadow 2 was optimized for practical shooting sports, featuring improved ergonomics, aggressive checkering, and a higher beavertail tang. Now, CZ has taken things even further with the Shadow 2 Target, specifically engineered for bullseye shooting.

This new model is fine-tuned for precision accuracy, featuring a single-action-only (SAO) trigger, improved sights, and a hand-fitted barrel for superior consistency.

Key Features of the CZ Shadow 2 Target

1. Premium Barrel Options for Accuracy

Target shooting demands top-tier accuracy, and the Shadow 2 Target delivers with two barrel length options:

• 4.89-inch barrel
• 5.89-inch barrel

Both barrels are cold hammer-forged and feature a redesigned protective muzzle crown to enhance longevity and accuracy. Each barrel is also hand-fitted to the slide and backed by a lifetime warranty, ensuring superior precision out of the box.

2. Enhanced Trigger System

A great trigger is crucial for competitive shooting, and CZ has made significant improvements with the Shadow 2 Target's SAO trigger system.

• Adjustable take-up and overtravel
• Pull weight adjustable between 1.3 to 3.8 lbs
• Five-position adjustable trigger shoe for customized length of pull

These enhancements allow shooters to fine-tune their trigger to match their personal preferences, ensuring a crisp and predictable break with every shot.

3. Enhanced Trigger System

A great trigger is crucial for competitive shooting, and CZ has made significant improvements with the Shadow 2 Target's SAO trigger system.

• Adjustable take-up and overtravel
• Pull weight adjustable between 1.3 to 3.8 lbs
• Five-position adjustable trigger shoe for customized length of pull

These enhancements allow shooters to fine-tune their trigger to match their personal preferences, ensuring a crisp and predictable break with every shot.

4. Redesigned Frame for Comfort & Stability

The steel frame of the Shadow 2 Target has been completely redesigned to improve comfort and control:

• Larger undercut on the trigger guard for better grip
• Enhanced checkering on front and back straps for a secure hold
• Bilaterally extended safety lever for ambidextrous use

Instead of a Picatinny rail, the dustcover now has an interface for mounting frame weights, allowing shooters to customize the balance and recoil characteristics to suit their needs.

5. Custom Grips & Ergonomic Controls

CZ ensures a premium feel with custom G10 grips, offering a comfortable yet aggressive texture for a secure hold.

Additionally, the controls have been fine-tuned, including:

• New slide stop design
• Lower-profile magazine release
• Three 17-round magazines included

These refinements improve overall handling, ensuring quick and seamless operation during competition.

Ammunition Compatibility

The CZ Shadow 2 Target is chambered in 9mm Luger (9x19mm), one of the most widely used calibers for both competitive shooting and self-defense. Given its single-action-only trigger and precision-focused design, pairing the Shadow 2 Target with high-quality match-grade ammunition will yield the best results.

Recommended Ammunition for Bullseye Shooting:

• 115gr or 124gr FMJ Match Ammo – Ideal for precision shooting, offering consistent velocity and minimal recoil.
• 147gr Subsonic Rounds – Provides a softer recoil impulse, aiding in faster follow-up shots.
• Premium Defensive Ammo (e.g., JHP rounds) – Useful for those who plan to use the Shadow 2 Target beyond competition.

Selecting the right ammunition enhances accuracy, minimizes recoil, and ensures the most reliable cycling performance in this high-end competition pistol.

Weight & Balance

The Shadow 2 Target has been engineered to provide a well-balanced shooting experience:

• 5" model: 46.5 oz
• 6" model: 48.5 oz

This added weight helps minimize recoil, keeping the sights steady for faster follow-up shots.

Pricing & Availability

The CZ Shadow 2 Target is competitively priced for a high-end competition pistol:

• 5-inch model MSRP: $2,500
• 6-inch model MSRP: $2,600

For further details and purchasing options, visit CZ's official website or check with your preferred firearms dealer.

Final Thoughts: Is the CZ Shadow 2 Target Worth It?

If you're serious about bullseye competition shooting, the CZ Shadow 2 Target is an outstanding choice. With its premium barrel options, enhanced SAO trigger, competition-grade sights, and ergonomic refinements, it offers everything needed for precision shooting.

For those looking to dominate the range, this latest addition to the CZ Shadow lineup is well worth considering.

Are you planning to get the CZ Shadow 2 Target? Let us know in the comments!