There are many good 45 ACP on the market and the CZ97 possesses an unique quality.
Compared to 1911s, the 97 can be fired double action, single action, and carried “kocked & locked” like the 1911 with the safety at the right place just like the 1911. It comes with “glow in the dark” sights, though they don’t called it night sights but they do help in acquiring target in the dark.
It’s an all steel gun. It’s weight is on the heavy size for modern day CCW but it’s no heavier than my 4-inch S&W 686 in 357 magnum, or my 454 Ruger Alaskan
. One benefit of all steel gun is less wear & tear between the steel slide & frame. I bought a surplused Gen 2 S&W 45 and the wear between the steel slide and aluminum rail is evident.
The 42 oz CZ97 is a pleasure to shoot. Less recoil & more accurate than my 1911.
I know many grew up in the “plastic fantastic” era. I’ve shot Glock 21 (full size) and Glock 30. While I was able to hit where I aim for defensive distance it was a “Meh”. It just doesn’t give me the WOW-factor like the CZ97.
The CZ97 is a great range & home defense 45acp. It’s also a great gun to learn how to shoot 45 without getting bad habits such as flinching.
If I was looking for a CCW 45acp, I would look to Sig P-220. Smooth shooting, accurate, and only weighs 30 oz.