POLL .40 S&W - CZ-75B vs. Steyr M40-A1?

[brentfoto]

Poll Options- change the word "above," to "below". Sorry, could not amend the poll question.

I've been trying to decide between two handguns in 40 S&W. To me, there are no other choices that interest me or would be of interest to me for purposes of this poll. So, PLEASE do not suggest alternatives.

The difficulty that I'm experiencing is in deciding whether to purchase the Steyr M40-A1 or the CZ-75B.

Purpose - will be solely for target, plinking, fun shooting, etc. Accuracy is important, stability and longevity too, as I will be shooting my own RELOADS almost exclusively with the gun, and it is likely I will be cycling ~10,000 rounds per year through it.

I have my own views but want yours concerning ergonomics, appearance, trigger, sights, accuracy, reliability, stability, longevity, warranty, 'bugs', and customer service.

Your views on each would be appreciated with respect to these categories, but if you can't comment on all categories, I would certainly appreciate your views on ergonomics, accuracy, reliability, stability, longevity, bugs.

So-given my Purpose, which would be the better choice? Steyr or CZ?

Thanks in advance!

 

[judaspriest]

How long before someone suggests a Glock?

I know nothing about the Steyr (saw its pic a few times, that's about it), but if you want to do reloads, CZ might be a great choice - I spoke with a number of manufacturers and none come even close to the level of respect CZ gives to reloaders (most others will start disclaiming away as soon as you so much as whisper the word reloading). I already posted it here a few times, but though I'd mention it anyway.

 

[brentfoto]

Thanks for your post, judaspriest, but I'm more concerned with ability to withstand normal reloads than whether manufacturer warrants gun when shooting reloads. Among other things, which will withstand the rigors of 10,000 rounds year after year?

You should see and shoot a Steyr. It's something else-totally NEW and a joy to shoot. I'm finding it very difficult to decide between the two-similar to deciding between a Hornady LNL AP press and a Dillon- the 'new kid on the block' with a tempting introductory offer vs. the one with a proven track record...

p.s. I don't think or mention Glock in the same sentence when it comes to .40 reloads, and BTW, I sold my Glock 17 many years ago, and have not been tempted to get Glock again-besides, both the Steyr and CZ are on sale right now in my area.

 

[Zundfolge]

I own two Steyr .40s (an M and an S) and frankly the main reason I'd chose the Steyr over the CZ is if you plan on carrying it.

For just a range gun, I'd go for a CZ-75B SA over both the Steyr and the standard 75B. Or better yet the CZ-75 Tactical Sport.

Both guns are good shooters, both should be able to withstand 10K+ rounds a year. However, you're going to find more gunsmiths that can work on the CZ.

But like I said before, if you want to CCW this gun then get the Steyr.

 

[DiN_BLiX]

But like I said before, if you want to CCW this gun then get the Steyr.

Or get a p-01,40p,or a 40compact.

 

[crt360]

I don't own the exact guns you're looking at, but I do have a Steyr M40 and a couple of CZs (none in .40). I like both, but I recommended the CZ based on your intended use.

My personal opinion is that the 75 has among the best ergonomics of any pistol ever made. The Steyr is not bad (much better than a Glock) but does not fit into my hand as naturally.

The classic CZ wins my vote for appearance. I seem to be one of the few that actually like the way the older M40 looks, and I think it looks better than the newer A1.

My CZ triggers have all been very good. The Steyr triggers take a little getting used to. It's a little heavier than I'd want for target shooting, but it's not spongy like a Glock trigger.

I like the simple CZ two rear dot, one front dot sights. The Steyr triangle/trapezoid sites work great once you get used to them.

I've found my CZs and Steyr to have excellent accuracy and reliability.

As far as longevity goes, I don't think you'll wear either pistol out. I have little to say about warranty or customer service as I really haven't used them, other than having CZ exchange a slide stop (that was cosmetically flawed) on a new pistol. Due to the ever changing Steyr presence, replacement parts may be more difficult to acquire should you need them.

I like both pistols, but for target shooting and plinking, I'd easily choose the 75B.

 

[brentfoto]

crt360--

Thanks for a totally responsive reply! Much appreciated!

Zundfolge - (I'm not interested in this weapon for self-protection or defense. I have a 12 gauge at home for that. Self defense would be secondary and I don't CCW).

I have shot both guns. I'm going to let you in on a little problem I find with the CZ. It's the tang digging into the web of my hand. It so annoys and bothers me that it's preventing me from selecting the CZ outright! Any suggestions? It' s either that with some repair or refinishing job or the Steyr!

I must say that I like the ergonomics of the STEYR more than the CZ! And I like the sights more too! I think I like the Steyr more but I'm hesitant about CS and longevity, but you have reassured me in that regard as to ability to withstand thousands of loads...

So, are you saying the CZ is MORE ACCURATE than the Steyr for target, etc.?

 

[[FH]K96]

I have no experience with CZ 75, but I do have an M40-A1. Great pistol that is very underrated. Anyhow, if you are not aware of http://www.steyrclub.com/ there is a wealth of knowledge there about maintenance, ammo, etc. on Steyrs.

 

[brentfoto]

[FH]K96--

Wish you owned both! Then I could get a more complete view from you re both guns...anyway, I am signed up with Steyr club as of a few days ago! Thanks!

 

[brentfoto]

How would anyone answer the following question:

Assume a competition of some kind between the CZ-75B and the Steyr M40-A1. The caliber is .40 S&W.

The events would consist of paper target shooting, steel targets, combat scenarios, etc.

Which would you find to be better suited for these activities and WHY?

CZ-75B or Steyr M40-A1?

 

[brentfoto]

(Zundfolge)

I own two Steyr .40s (an M and an S) and frankly the main reason I'd chose the Steyr over the CZ is if you plan on carrying it.

For just a range gun, I'd go for a CZ-75B SA over both the Steyr and the standard 75B. Or better yet the CZ-75 Tactical Sport.

Both guns are good shooters, both should be able to withstand 10K+ rounds a year. However, you're going to find more gunsmiths that can work on the CZ.

But like I said before, if you want to CCW this gun then get the Steyr.
Today 07:52 PM

Zundfolge - Your alternative suggestions are well-taken, but it must be one or the other-Steyr M40-A1 or CZ-75B only. Thanks for taking the time to point out the single action CZ and the target model.

Now, why did you recommend the CZ for my purposes? Do you own CZ's in addition to the Steyrs that you own? If not, I am curious as to your basis for recommending the CZ.

Thanks!

 

[Zundfolge]

I don't own any CZs, but having shot several side by side with my Steyr I'd say the ergonomics, accuracy and size of the CZ make it a better pistol for target shooting.

Thing is, the Steyr is plenty accurate and durable ... if I had to pick one reason why the CZ is a better choice than the Steyr for a range gun it would be that the CZ is more modifiable ... there are more grip options available (which might fix the problem you have with them), there are more sights available, the triggers on the CZs can be tinkered with more ways than the Steyr, and while a CZ75B SA would be a better choice than a DA/SA, With the DA/SA you still have the option of a single action trigger pull (if you really want you can convert it to SAO as well).

While the trigger on the Steyr is pretty darn good for a poly framed DAO pistol, you still can't beat a tuned single action trigger. Period.




All that said, I carry a Steyr S40 every day and there's an M40 on my wife's side of the bed. When funds allow there WILL be a CZ-75 Tactical Sport in my safe though



Frankly you can't go wrong with either, I just think for your purpose the CZ has the slight edge.

 

[brentfoto]

Dear Zundfolge:

Despite what you have to say about the CZ, you have not one, but two, Steyrs, and not even one CZ. I don't mean to pry but I would like to know why you made such a choice. This will help me in deciding.

If you had to do it over again would you have changed your choices in any manner? I can see selecting the Steyr for CCW but the nightstand?

You see, I have bought and paid for the Steyr but due to CA law here, I have to wait to go through the sale due to time limits...sales manager said I could switch to the CZ or any other firearm for that matter in lieu of the Steyr. California residents can only buy one handgun every thirty days. There would be no penalty, and I have to wait that time period to do a DROS (California 'Dealer's Record of Sale' that initiates a mandatory 10-day waiting period).

They're both priced the same but I initially selected the Steyr without much hesitation due to greater comfort level and pointing ability. But I want a gun that will last through all my reloads and I hesitate with the Steyr. But the CZ darn beavertail is almost a deal-breaker for me. So, what to do? I'm having a very tough time with it and can't afford both at this time-hence, this and other threads.

I do like the Steyr looks, though, and the CZ has the 'dated' look of so many pistols...

In the numerous categories I originally cited, the CZ had the edge in most of them. But I did like the Steyr 5.5# (or whatever it is) trigger. It is not likely I would have the CZ trigger modified unless I went into competition. Sorry, I'm kinda 'thinking out loud' here... :banghead:

 

[brentfoto]

Gosh-poll so far is 18 to 3 in favor of CZ. I'm wondering of those who voted for CZ how many of you are really familiar with the Steyr?

Anyway, I'm planning to go to range today/tonight, rent the CZ-again! I don't need to rent the Steyr again.

There were numerous jams with the CZ and it was quite dirty when I rented it last time. My range only has it in 9mm. I'll call them and ask them to clean it prior to my arrival. So it was difficult for me to compare the two objectively.

I am having second thoughts about the Steyr though my 'gut' feeling is that I like it more. Seems there are a few 'bugs' with the extractor and other things that may be problematic. And I am not thrilled about the lack of track record, numerous importer changes, availability of parts/support, only 1 year warranty while CZ has 5 years and a well-proven track record!

Again, I think the Dillon progressive press analogy vs. Hornady LNL AP is similar in the differences when it comes to established track record and customer support, though Hornady is now supposed to be equal to Dillon in the CS area... however, that was not my experience in calling them and having to wait longer periods of time to speak to someone, etc.

OTOH, I did speak to someone knowledgable at Steyr and was favorably impressed-AND-I did not have to wait long.

 

[Zundfolge]

Despite what you have to say about the CZ, you have not one, but two, Steyrs, and not even one CZ.

Thats a fair question.

I bought the M40 back before I even knew what a CZ was. I bought the S40 because frankly its just a bitchin' CCW piece.

If I was forced it all to do over again and could only own two pistols, I'd own a CZ75B SA (or TachSport) and a Steyr S40.


Anyway, the next autoloading handgun I buy will either be a CZ or some sort of 10mm.


It seems to me that you're leaning toward the Steyr. Well I'm not going to talk you out of the Steyr ... I love mine (both of them), but on paper the CZ has the slight edge as a range gun.


As for the "bugs" with the extractor on the Steyrs ... they tend to require a longer break in period (I'd say 300 or more rounds) and the extractors tend to smooth out. That said if you ever need to send it back to SAI in Georgia (the importer) to have it worked on, those guys give EXCELLENT service.

I bought a used S40 to replace my original one (that had been stolen), when I got it I found that the frame was cracked! I sent it to SAI and they dug up a replacement frame and installed it and shipped it back to me for free, and this was during the time that Steyr-Mannlicher was sold recently so these guys had no idea if they would still have jobs in a week. I don't know what you mean by a 1 year warranty with the Steyr, because they treated me as though it was a lifetime transferable warranty.


If you haven't been there already, go here http://steyrclub.com (I post as Zundfolge over there as well)

 

[brentfoto]

Perhaps you should change your vote to CZ in answer to the poll.

I don't mean to spoil anything, but I did in fact change my order today to the CZ-75B in 40 caliber. I feel pretty good about the decision, and the poll was helpful, too. I want to thank all who have participated thus far in the poll. I welcome others to cast their votes too until the poll expires on Saturday.


I like the feel of the Steyr more, but I really think for target that the CZ sights, trigger, and reliability, longevity, CS, warranty, etc. is the better choice! So though I would like to depart from the crowd, I believe the edge goes to CZ also, with its incredible history and track record. Thanks for your posts. I have changed my original decision to go with the Steyr and will be getting a new CZ-75B in 40.

Update: Now I've been informed there are none to be had for the present time! They've sold out current stock. Manager of my local store is to keep trying and keep me informed. My order remains with the Steyr, but I really want the CZ now.

 

[Zundfolge]

My order remains with the Steyr, but I really want the CZ now.

Hell, guns are like potato chips ... you can't stop with one.

 

[balin]

I have both a styer in 40 cal and a cz75 in 9mm and 40 cal. And they are all good guns. The styer had a slight break in period where it would jam on the second round of the mag. But after a 100 rounds that problem was taken care of. The cz's have been trouble free. I shoot them more accurately and like them better, hence the reason I am getting more of them. I am not getting rid of any of them, but cz's are my favorites.

 

[Schwebel]

I'd say Steyr, because I love the ergonomics of the gun and also the sights are awesome. CZ's have a huge following and are great guns, but the Styer's grips angle is perfect. Also CDNN has them again, I haven't called to ask for a price, but last time they were around $300, still kicking myself in the butt for not buying one.

 

[[FH]K96]

[FH]K96--

Wish you owned both! Then I could get a more complete view from you re both guns...anyway, I am signed up with Steyr club as of a few days ago! Thanks!

Well... I will have a new Jericho .40 that I pick up shortly and plan on burning through 400 rounds on day 1. I'll post a range report.

I recant what I said about not using a CZ, I have used my friend's CZ 2075(?) RAMI in .40... I don't recall anything that stood out in my mind about it.

I believe you will be happy with either choice (get the Steyr first)- I have a feeling you will wind up with both anyways

 

[mbott]

The CZ 75B in .40 caliber was my introduction to the line of CZ handguns. It's the softest shooting .40 I own. Seems to handle the .40 "snap" better than anything else I've fired.

It's been my experience that the full size CZs prefer the heavier 180gr bullets while the compacts, like the size of the 40P, shoot better with the 155gr/165gr bullets.

Enjoy the CZ! Stop over to the CZ Forum if you get the chance.

--
Mike

 

[brentfoto]

mbott--

The only thing I found was czforum.com. I did not get much when using Google.

Anyway, this must be the place? I stopped by before but do not recall if I registered. Will have to do that.

Thanks!

Update: I read on forum above that another forum for cz is in existence. Is anyone aware of that one and its URL?

 

[VMIRat1995]

Get the CZ 75B, brother. You won't go wrong.

 

[brentfoto]

Hey, rat--

I'd get it if I could!

Now I hear the retailer I plan to get it from may no longer be doing biz with CZ-USA. This is just a rumor.

Anyway if I could get the .40 with ambidextrous grips (standard-I'm a southpaw) that would be great for the price.

My retailer has apparently run out of them but more may be on the way. I'm willing to wait a little while on it but if they're no longer doing biz with CZ then I'm wasting my time. In that event, I may demand a refund of the monies I originally paid for the Steyr as they promised I could switch and get the CZ in lieu thereof.

 

[mbott]

There is CZ Shooters and the CZ Forum.

--
Mike