With all the CZ bashing by Sig fanboys, maybe it would be helpful if we actually tried to answer the original question
schmecky said:
Lastly, I had to consider this: is the Sig worth $700+ to the CZ's sub-$400.00 price?
The bottom line is that the Sig P228 and CZ 75B are two guns that feel and function quite differently.
1) Right off the bat, the P228 was not designed to be carried cocked and locked, whereas the 75B was. So, if you prefer cocked and locked, the 75B is a natural choice. If you prefer DA, then the decocker-equipped P228 makes more sense. Personally, I don't like manually decocking an autopistol. If I insisted on carrying a DA auto (for whatever crazy reason) I'd take the Sig.
2) The two guns are shaped very differently and have very different ergonomics. The feel of the grip, etc. is totally different. The Sig feels a bit cramped for me. The 75B fits me perfectly. Someone else might feel the exact opposite. This is all down to personal preference.
3) The Sig has an unusually high bore axis. The CZ 75B has a much lower bore axis. For me, the Sig is unpleasant to shoot due to excessive muzzle flip that torques your wrist. Between the lower bore axis, larger grips, and greater weight, the 75B is a real pussycat to shoot.
4) Accuracy, reliability, trigger pull, ease of dissasembly: For me, this is a total draw. Both guns have great triggers. I would give the Sig a slight edge in DA pull. For me, the 75B has a significantly better SA pull, with a much crisper let-off (unlike the "sproing" you get with the P228). As far as accuracy, there is no difference in my hands. My CZ's have been 100% reliable in maybe 10 years of service. So there's no difference there, either.
The bottom line is I think the two guns are comparable. I believe CZ could EASILY sell the 75B for $800 and they'd have no shortage of buyers. There's a reason why the 75 is so dominant among high-level action shooters. I can't remember the last time I saw anything besides a 1911, Glock, or CZ 75 in the hands of a competitor. Personally, I have yet to see anyone running a Sig in competition (though I hear there are a few that use them).