Para Ordn or CZ 75B?

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distra

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I've been kicking around the idea of getting a double stack 1911 and Para has several (P13 or P14). I found a couple on GB, but I've also handled a CZ 75B in .40 S&W. Both about the same price. I reload all calibers I shoot, .45ACP, .40 S&W, 9mm, 38 super, etc. Which one should I choose? :confused:
 
I suppose that it depends on how you intend to use it.

I would never use a Para as a serious fighting tool. I would have no hesitation on using a CZ75 as a fighting tool.

However, the Para would make a better gaming and range tool.
 
I borrowed a friends CZ-75 a few weeks ago to shoot. My dad's looking at the 85 ambi version so we borrowed the 75 for some range time. That gun has a tremendous build quality to it. The entire gun just 'feels' solid. It functioned perfectly, shot great, and the nickel finish just looked good. I don't own any CZ's but after shooting his I really want one.

I can't comment on the Para. I'm sure someone else will chime in....
 
I'd be wary of getting a Para second-hand. I can too easily picture somebody getting one that's finicky (seems to happen often) and passing it off on the used market.
 
This is my opinion. It's worth as much as you paid for it.

Para makes some innovative products, and has been pushing the bounds of 1911 design for a while. They pioneered, at least to my knowledge, the double-stack 1911 concept. They introduced the LDA FCG to get around some LEO restrictions for DA mode in carry weapons. I will give them all props for this; they are designers.

However, their production seems to be spotty. Frankly, they seem to have a greater-than-average number of issues 'in the field'. No doubt, there any many Para's in use that have been trouble free. But there are many that are not. Some of their designs I find overly complex and represent solutions to things that I do not see as problems.

In the end, I value solid reliability over all else in a fighting tool. Sadly, that is the one area where I never know how a given Para will perform. Did I get a good one - or not?

For a range or gaming tool, where the worst that happens when it breaks/malfs is that I go home, they are OK in my book. But I would not carry one for serious use.

That's just me.
 
+1 for rbernie's explanation.

If you want a double-stack .45 as a shooter go for the Para.

If you are counting on it for defense you can't go wrong with a CZ.
 
I have the P14 .45 Gun Rights model. And it has been absolutely perfect with a little over a 1000 rounds through it. Mixed federal american eagle ball ammo and Rem. Golden Sabers. I carry this gun every day. I've heard they can be finicky also. however, I heard most of the problems are in the mag. I believe they fixed that issue. I still only put 13 in the mag and 1 in the pipe. and believe me it has been flawless. the Gun Rights model is the only one I can comment on and it is one of the best pistols I own. Look at my signature to see what I have and they are all reliable and would not hesitate to carry any of them. The para feels solid as can be. accurate too. Did I mention all of the match grade parts and the fact it is all stainless steel. Plus (for me) 13+1 rounds of 45acp!
 
I plan to use this mainly as a range gun or for IDPA matches, but I want all my pistols to be fight worthy. If they are too finicky they are sold very quickly. The CZ really does seem solidly built. Does anyone know if "standard" 1911 parts fit the Para double stacks?
 
I dont know Distra, But give it a chance as a fighting pistol too, if you deem it to be worthy enough. mine was good out the box but I still ran a lot of ammo through it to thoroughly break it in. I suggest you do the same. (Im sure you already planned on that):D
 
I've got a Para 14.45 Limited that I just adore - one of the nicest shooting pistols I've owned in 40+ years, and has been extremely dependable. Currently I am keeping my eyes open for a good used LDA double stack for carry . . .

Cheers!

7
 
Does anyone know if "standard" 1911 parts fit the Para double stacks?
Click to expand...
Some will, and some won't. The wider frame has implications on a number of parts, from the trigger to the slide stop.
 
Thanks None! I totally forgot RIA had a double stack. Definately worth checking that out. :D
 
Picked up a CZ 75B in 9mm

Well I made the decision and bought a CZ 75B in 9mm used for $380 on GB. I've taken it to the range and I'm extremely impressed with this pistol. A joy to shoot and very accurate. Follow-up shots are sweet very little recoil. Now I'm thinking of picking one up in .45ACP :D My wife shoot it and really likes the pistol. Another pistol that will be "ours" ;)
 
Now I'm thinking of picking one up in .45ACP My wife shoot it and really likes the pistol. Another pistol that will be "ours"
Click to expand...

Gotta upgrade to a chambering too big for her to steal. :D That's probably the most convincing "real man's gun" argument.
 
The CZ with a trigger job is even better !

BTW, the only parts unique to the Para is the trigger, mag catch, grip screws, magazine and grips.
 
Distra,

I've never owned a Para, I know they can make some great pistols, but I've also read you can get some with quality control issues as well.

About that CZ, man, you're in deep, big trouble. The biggest mistake I've made in buying a pistol in the past few years was buying a CZ, which lead to another, CZ, then another CZ, then another CZ . . . . . .

They have been consistently solid and reliable for me. In fact, my CZ-40B and CZ-75B in .40 have never malfunctioned, ever.
 
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