3906 or CZ 75BD

[WTN1271]

I would like to purchase a 3906 but they don't seem to become available much so I have been considering a CZ 75BD as an alternative. Everything I read is very positive about the CZ.
Both are said to be about equal in build quaility and reliablity. Would the 3906 be as accurate as the CZ is reported to be? The CZ is enticing since it is still in production and available. I am leaning towards waiting for a 3906 to surface but the CZ provides instant gratification since a LGS has one in stock. Probably can't go wrong with either one but if you had to make a choice which would you buy and why? Gun would be primarily used as a range gun. Thanks for your thoughts.

 

[pmosley]

3906 - I found a LNIB 3904 a few years ago which of course led to my quest for a 3906, an admittedly sometimes illusive model.

At the end of 2012 I found one on GB in very good condition and bought it.

The 3906 is analogous to the revolver models 13/67 in "pointability" and balance.

The hunt is worth it, however, ironically, I've thought about adding a CZ to my stable.

Good luck with whatever you choose.

 

[kyf]

I can't speak to the 3906 but I can say the CZ75BD is a fine shooter. Fit, finish and accuracy are all top notch. In fact I liked the CZ75BD so much I bought a CZ75 P-07, also 9mm, to add to the collection as well. I gotta say, I am thoroughly impressed with the accuracy of both pistols. Even though the 75BD has a longer sight radius the P-07 is no slouch. I was punching out the center ring at 10yards with both with no problem. Recoil is light and they feel good in the hand. If you have a chance, try and find one to shoot. You might end up getting both the CZ and the 3906!!!

 

[k22fan]

[...] which would you buy and why? Gun would be primarily used as a range gun. Thanks for your thoughts.

For local matches I chose and highly recommend a CZ 85, or at least a CZ 75B, not a decock only CZ 75 BD or 3906. There are double action classes in various matches but for the most part cocked and locked pistols are easier to draw and shoot in matches. While a CZ 85 or CZ 75 will work in double action class, a CZ 75 BD or 3906 eliminates the option of cocked and locked.

Comparing the two brands, I can say my CZ 85 is more accurate than my 5946 was, but the edge in reliability went to the 5946.

All of the CZ models mentioned are currently cataloged and shouldn't be hard to obtain by ordering through a LGS. That's how I bought my CZ 85 for a couple of reasons. For one, stores almost always order CZ's ugly flat black paint finish. When I bought mine bright polished blue and satin nickel were the same price. An attractive blue is still no more than $25 more than polycoat or whatever CZ is calling their paint. Also stores generally only stock 75 Bs or 75 BDs. My 85 Combat was well worth the $60 upgrade for its better trigger, adjustable sights, drop free magazine and longer magazine release. What makes an 85 an 85 rather than a 75 is an ambidextrous safety which is handy as matches often have weak hand portions. Like earlier CZ 75s (non-B ) the CZ 85 Combat does not have a firing pin block safety which is one reason it has a better trigger. In CZ's products you get a 9 mm that will go cocked and locked that is more reliable than a 9 mm 1911 for about half the price of a 9 mm 1911.

Also CZ's .22 LR conversion unit is one of the best there is. They're an all steel top half with a small moving slide. That maintains the weight and balance or the center fire. Their accuracy and reliability is very good too.

Now after all that promotion of CZ, I do regret not buying a 3906 when the local market flooded with police surplus 3906s. It's been a while. I've only occasionally seen 3906s on the internet since the market absorbed that batch of surplus. They're a nice mid-size CCW and have become a bit of a collector's item.

 

[Wraith_K]

Given a personal preference I would take the CZ75. Not because of any fault of the 3906 the CZ's just fit my hand better and have a better natural point of aim for me.

If you are going to be shooting matches, I'd spend the extra and the CZ75 Shadow.

Both are very hard for me to find in my area, so good luck in your search.

 

[mzack66]

I have a CZ 75 Shadow out of the custom shop and absolutely love it. Same frame as any 75/85 model. It sits very well in my hand, has a narrow handle, and the trigger action is phenomenal. can't speak to the 3906 and understand they are fine handguns for sure. I've owned and shot many 9mm's and the CZ is the top of the class that I've owned. If you want a serious target gun, the Shadow is awesome, combat trigger and hammer, lighter springs, trigger job, extended mag release with free drop, no fire pin block, fiber optic front sight, combat rear. They can be found lightly used, they are a great value. The 75 Shadow has a smooth front (like a 1911) the Shadow SP-01 has the accessory rail. Good luck!