The worst era for Dan Wesson was right after Seth moved the facilities to Palmer MA.
They were still using the original 70's era tooling to make the small frame and large frame guns.
When Bob Serva bought the company in 1996, he pretty much paid to have all the revolver tooling redone, so as it would be usable and produce excellent firearms. These guns are the Norwich NY revolvers.
The Norwich revolvers are of top quality- period. They rival(and sometimes exceed) the quality of the Monson Guns. I own 6 Monson revolvers- I can say 5 of those are fantastic, and I sure as hell hope the 6th one I just bought was worth the $600.
I've shot the Supermag Norwich guns, and I've shot the 4760. I'd just about give my hine teeth for a 4760.
The Dan Wesson 1911's were and are fine, fine handguns.
The purchase by CZ has been nothing but positive in my eyes, although I miss the Serva-era.
CZ has increased the use of top quality parts in the Dan Wesson 1911 line, and they slightly increased the price of their guns in the process. Their lack of fear in increasing prices has enabled them to sell a $1500-$1900 1911 for $800-$1200. CZ has also done a better job with distribution and sales, in my opinion.
CZ really brought in the working capital and corporate structure to keep the small company service and reliability- you're treated with respect, with kindness, and they act like you did them a favor by purchasing their product, and not the other way around.
Serva's DW was like that, but as the company was rapidly growing, sometimes there were delays on warranty repairs and sometimes a gun would have some issues and it would take a bit to get it right.
CZ still treats their customers like friends, but they've gotten the warranty and repairs down to an art- most people get 7 day or less turn around.
The market for the revolvers isn't really there anymore, so CZ hasn't brought out or reintroduced any revolvers just yet, but it still looks positive on that front.
Cliff Notes:
If you buy a Dan Wesson, the only way I'd say it is even remotely likely to be a lemon is if it says Palmer MA, and even then some damn fine guns were made.
Serva, Norwich NY, Dan Wesson: Great revolvers, great 1911's. Simply mind boggling value looking back on the quality for price.
CZ Era, Norwich NY, Dan Wesson: Same great service, actually even better. Even better guns, although the price went up. They're using even more boutique grade parts on guns still being sold for mass production prices.
DW Collection: 2 44 Mags, 4 357's, 2 Panthers, Pointman 7, Commander Bobtail, 10mm PM7, 10mm Razorback.
Still considering a 10mm Major.