CZ 97 B .45 ACP
Model: 01411
CZ 97 B .45 ACP
Model: 01411
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The CZ 97 B is the heaviest pistol in this .45 ACP lineup at 41.3 oz, and that weight is the point. The all-steel frame absorbs .45 ACP recoil in a way that no polymer gun in this group can match. Owners who have shot both the CZ 97 B and lighter polymer .45s like the 29.9 oz S&W M&P 45 M2.0 consistently report that the CZ feels closer to shooting a 9mm. The DA/SA trigger runs 5.5 lbs in single action, which is higher than the HK HK45's 4.5 lbs, but the CZ trigger is well-regarded for its smoothness and lack of stacking on the double-action pull.
At 8.3 inches overall with a 4.65-inch barrel and 10+1 capacity, the 97 B is sized like other full-size .45s but weighs 10 oz more than the Glock G21 Gen5 MOS. There is no rail, no optic mount, and no threaded barrel option. The aluminum grips are thin and the manual safety sits where 1911 shooters expect it. The 97 B is built in the Czech Republic and shares the CZ 75 family's reputation for tight slide-in-frame fitment. For recoil-sensitive shooters or anyone who values the way a steel gun tracks between shots, the weight is the surprising strength here, not a drawback.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- The 41.3 oz all-steel frame produces the lowest felt recoil of any .45 ACP pistol in this group. That weight makes extended range sessions and new-shooter training significantly more comfortable
- CZ 75-family slide-in-frame design gives the 97 B a lower bore axis than conventional slide-over-frame pistols like the Glock G21, which owners note translates to less muzzle flip
- Fiber optic front sight paired with a fixed 2-dot rear acquires fast in daylight conditions and is easier to pick up than the plain white dot sights on the S&W M&P 45 M2.0
- No accessory rail. Mounting a weapon light requires an aftermarket frame adapter, which limits home defense utility compared to railed options like the HK HK45 or FN FNX-45 Tactical
- 41.3 oz unloaded eliminates any realistic carry use. Loaded with 10+1 rounds of 230-grain ball, the gun approaches 3 lbs total. This is a range and nightstand gun only
Category Rankings
How the CZ 97 B .45 ACP ranks among full-size .45 ACP handguns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert the CZ 97 B to decocker-only?
CZ makes the 97 BD variant with a decocker instead of a manual safety, but the parts are not a simple swap. The frame cutout and internal geometry differ. If you want decocker-only operation, buy the 97 BD model from the start rather than modifying a 97 B.
What is the break-in period for a CZ 97 B?
The slide-in-frame fit is intentionally tight from the factory. Most owners report the action smooths out noticeably after 300-500 rounds. The double-action trigger pull, in particular, loses its initial grittiness and becomes smoother through the stroke as the contact surfaces wear in.