CZ 97 B versus SA XD-45 Tactical?

[Zeede]

Looking to get my first centerfire pistol. I hemmed and hawed over the 9mm VS .45 ACP debate for a long while, and decided that while neither is what I would call "cheap" these days, if I reload, the price of either should be within my budget. I know that the .40 S&W is similar in ballistic performance to the .45 ACP, but the operating pressure of the .45 is much lower, which should make reloading more forgiving.

Okay, so I know that the CZ 97 B is of a very different philosophy than the Springfield Armory XD-45, but I just wanted some opinions on the two pistols. I picked the XD-45 Tactical so that we were talking the same barrel length and all that.

Cameron

 

[wally]

Add the EAA Witness Elite Match into the mix. About the same price and IMHO better than either. I have all three.

As much as I like CZs the 97 is just too fat for me. The EAA Witness is much like a CZ75 only marginally larger and available in .45ACP.

If you must have plastic, I like my S&W M&P better than the XD, although the XD is my second favorite polymer pistol. S&W is offering a $50 rebate with two free mags thru April making it the best deal overall right now.

.45ACP is IMHO the right choice if you want to start reloading, its not that 9mm or .40S&W are any harder, its they have a lot less margin for error as you surmise.

--wally.

 

[rbernie]

I have had multiples of both; sold the XDs and kept one CZ97B. They're both big and heavy; the XD has more capacity while the CZ feels better balanced and handles better.

I've actually become a P220 fan, and have been buying those (used, pre-rail West German models, mostly) to replace the XDs and CZs that I've sold.

 

[Comanche180]

45 choice

I have a CZ97B which I am very fond of for its acuracy and dependability, not to mention good looks. I also have an XD9SC which while not a 45 is a very fine weapon, ultra reliable and accurate out to 50ft. The CZ has a big grip but I am comfortable with it.

I just bought a 1911 style 45 and it is a good shooter with more perceived recoil that the CZ. But it is accurate and functions well. These are available in the $400 range if you don't need a Colt or Kimber etc.

There are lots of choices out there take your time. Used guns are an option too, most of mine were bought used and I have been happy with my purchases.