The Shadow series from CZ has long been celebrated for its match-grade performance and reliability, captivating competitive shooters in the airsoft and firearms communities. Now, CZ has expanded the series with the introduction of the Shadow 2 Carry, a pistol engineered for the demands of everyday concealed carry without sacrificing the core attributes that define its predecessors. Building upon the foundation laid by the successful Shadow 2 Compact, the Shadow 2 Carry presents a refined design philosophy, directly addressing the needs of both seasoned professionals and everyday citizens who prioritize discreet carry without compromising on performance or handling.

In designing for durability and portability, CZ has chosen EN AW-7075 T6 aluminum alloy for the frame's construction, a material renowned in aerospace and high-performance applications for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to stress. This material choice allows the Shadow 2 Carry to maintain the robust feel and reliability expected of the Shadow series while achieving a manageable unloaded weight of just 30.4 ounces (approximately 862 grams). This careful balance ensures comfortable all-day carry without inducing undue fatigue, which is important for those looking for a concealed carry handgun.

The dimensional profile of the Shadow 2 Carry has been optimized to facilitate effective concealment without hindering operational efficiency. Featuring a 4-inch barrel and an overall length of 7.5 inches (190.5 mm), the pistol strikes an ideal equilibrium between a compact footprint and a sufficient sight radius for accurate shooting. Its modest width of 1.5 inches (38.1 mm) and a height of 5.4 inches (137.2 mm) further contribute to its concealability under various clothing types. Complementing these dimensions is an intelligently designed ergonomic framework, incorporating aggressively textured grip panels that ensure a secure and positive hold, even under adverse conditions. A flared magwell further aids in swift and fumble-free magazine changes, a crucial element in high-stress situations.

In a departure from some of its predecessors within the Shadow family, the Shadow 2 Carry incorporates a simplified yet highly functional safety system. The traditional manual safety lever has been replaced with a decocking lever, offering a more intuitive and streamlined method for safely lowering the hammer. This design choice caters to users who prefer the immediate readiness of a decocked double-action/single-action system. Augmenting this decocking mechanism are essential internal safety features, including an automatic firing pin block that prevents unintentional discharge and a safety notch on the hammer, providing an additional layer of security during handling and carry.

For precision and longevity, this is underscored by the inclusion of a cold-hammer-forged barrel in the Shadow 2 Carry. This manufacturing process, known for producing barrels with exceptional dimensional accuracy and enhanced grain structure, directly translates to superior accuracy and consistent performance. CZ's confidence in the quality of this component is reflected in the limited lifetime warranty offered on the barrel, providing users with long-term assurance. Recognizing the evolving needs of modern shooters, CZ has also integrated an under rail on the dustcover, allowing for the attachment of tactical lights or lasers, for better target identification low-light conditions.

For aiming, the Shadow 2 Carry comes equipped with fixed sights. To enhance visibility in various lighting conditions, both the front and rear sights feature three luminous dots, facilitating rapid target acquisition in low-light or high-contrast environments. Furthermore, acknowledging the growing popularity of red-dot optics for enhanced accuracy and faster target acquisition, the slide of the Shadow 2 Carry is pre-cut with the RMSc footprint, enabling the direct mounting of compatible miniature red dot sights (MRDS) without the need for adapter plates.

The trigger mechanism of the CZ Shadow 2 Carry retains the series' reputation for excellent shooting characteristics. It operates on a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) system. This dual-action capability provides a balance between a heavier initial trigger pull for enhanced safety during carry and a lighter, more refined single-action pull for accurate follow-up shots.

The Shadow 2 Carry comes with a magazine that has a capacity of 15 rounds of ammunition. This capacity strikes a practical balance, providing ample rounds for defensive scenarios and enjoyable range sessions while maintaining a relatively compact grip profile. The inherent reliability and consistent performance of the Shadow series are carried over into this model, ensuring dependable operation when it matters most.

By thoughtfully integrating lightweight yet robust materials, optimizing dimensions for concealment, incorporating intuitive safety features, and maintaining exceptional accuracy and a refined trigger, CZ has produced a high-quality carry pistol that stands as a serious contender for those who refuse to compromise on performance or reliability in their everyday carry firearm.