First Impressions of Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black
For years, I’ve been a die-hard iron sights guy, preaching the gospel of simplicity and reliability. Lately, however, the siren song of red dot optics has been getting harder to ignore, especially for my CZ Shadow. The Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black promises a simple, no-gunsmithing solution for mounting a red dot on my favorite pistol, and I’m eager to see if it lives up to the hype.
I’ve always appreciated the clean lines of the CZ Shadow, and the thought of drilling and tapping the slide for a dedicated optic mount made me cringe. This adapter offered a potential solution, a way to bridge the gap between classic ergonomics and modern optic technology without permanently altering my firearm. The promise of easy installation and compatibility with popular red dots like the Trijicon RMR and Holosun 407/507C was a major selling point.
Unboxing the adapter, the first thing that struck me was the weight and the finish. The black anodized 7075 aluminum felt solid and looked well-machined. Compared to some of the cheaper, pot-metal adapters I’ve seen, this felt like a quality piece.
I had also considered a few other options, including a dedicated optic-ready slide and having my existing slide milled. Ultimately, the cost and potential downtime steered me toward the Foxtail Precision adapter. It seemed like the most practical and reversible option for exploring the world of pistol red dots.
My initial excitement is cautiously optimistic. The adapter looks the part, and the materials seem high-quality, but the real test will be how well it fits, how secure it holds the optic, and how it affects the gun’s balance and handling.
Real-World Testing: Putting Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black at my local indoor shooting range. The installation process was surprisingly straightforward; after drifting out the factory rear sight, the adapter slid into the dovetail with a snug, secure fit.
I mounted a Holosun 507C using the included screws, which fit perfectly. My first few magazines were dedicated to zeroing the optic and getting a feel for the new sight picture. The adapter held the zero consistently, and I was impressed with the overall stability of the setup.
There were no immediate issues, although I noticed a slight change in the pistol’s balance, with a bit more weight towards the rear. This was easily compensated for, and the improved target acquisition speed with the red dot more than made up for it.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and approximately 500 rounds, the Foxtail Precision adapter continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve subjected it to a variety of conditions, from dry indoor ranges to slightly damp outdoor environments. The adapter hasn’t loosened or shifted, and the red dot remains securely mounted.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the adapter itself, and the black anodized finish is holding up well. Cleaning the adapter is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a cloth and some solvent.
Compared to my previous experience with iron sights, the red dot and adapter have significantly improved my shooting speed and accuracy, particularly at longer distances. The Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black has definitely exceeded my expectations, providing a reliable and effective platform for mounting a red dot on my CZ Shadow.
Breaking Down the Features of Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black
Specifications
The Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black is designed specifically for the CZ Shadow series of pistols. It replaces the factory rear sight, providing a mounting platform for various red dot optics.
- Material: The adapter is constructed from 7075 Aluminum, known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. This ensures durability without adding excessive weight to the pistol.
- Footprint: It features a Holosun 407C/507C Pattern Footprint, making it compatible with a wide range of popular red dot sights. This includes models from Trijicon (RMR) and Holosun, offering shooters a variety of options.
- Mounting: The adapter mounts into the existing rear sight dovetail, eliminating the need for gunsmithing or permanent modifications to the slide. Installation is simple and reversible.
- Included: Mounting screws are included, ensuring a secure and proper fit for compatible red dot optics. This saves time and eliminates the hassle of sourcing the correct hardware.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the adapter’s durability, compatibility, and ease of installation. The use of 7075 aluminum ensures that the adapter can withstand the stresses of recoil, while the standardized footprint allows for a wide selection of optics.
Performance & Functionality
The Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black performs its job admirably. It provides a stable and secure platform for mounting a red dot optic, enhancing the pistol’s accuracy and target acquisition speed.
Its strength lies in its simple and effective design. It allows users to easily transition to a red dot sight without permanent modifications. The only real weakness is that you lose your rear iron sight, but some may consider that a worthwhile trade-off. It definitely meets expectations, especially considering the price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The adapter is well-designed, with a sleek, low-profile appearance that blends seamlessly with the CZ Shadow’s aesthetics. The black anodized finish matches the pistol’s factory finish.
The adapter is lightweight and doesn’t significantly alter the pistol’s balance or handling characteristics. There is virtually no learning curve, as the adapter simply replaces the rear sight and provides a mounting point for the optic.
Durability & Maintenance
The 7075 aluminum construction ensures that the adapter is durable and can withstand the rigors of regular use. I expect it to last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection. The adapter is resistant to corrosion and doesn’t require any special treatments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The adapter comes with the necessary mounting screws for attaching compatible red dot optics. It is compatible with a wide range of red dot sights that use the Holosun 407C/507C footprint, including the Trijicon RMR and various Holosun models.
There are no other specific accessories or customization options for the adapter itself, but the wide range of compatible optics provides ample opportunity for customization.
Pros and Cons of Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black
Pros
- Easy Installation: No gunsmithing required; simply replaces the factory rear sight.
- Durable Construction: Made from 7075 Aluminum for strength and longevity.
- Wide Compatibility: Fits Holosun 407C/507C footprint optics, including Trijicon RMR.
- Affordable Price: Offers a cost-effective way to mount a red dot.
- Secure Mounting Platform: Provides a stable and reliable base for optics.
Cons
- Loses rear iron sight capability.
- May slightly alter the pistol’s balance.
Who Should Buy Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black?
The Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black is perfect for competitive shooters, recreational shooters, and those looking to improve their target acquisition speed on their CZ Shadow. It’s a great option for anyone wanting to experiment with red dot optics without permanently modifying their firearm.
This product may not be ideal for those who prioritize having backup iron sights or prefer the classic aesthetics of the CZ Shadow without optics.
A must-have accessory would be a compatible red dot optic, such as the Holosun 507C or Trijicon RMR.
Conclusion on Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black
The Foxtail Precision 100018 Rear Sight Dovetail Optic Adapter For CZ Shadow Black is a well-designed, durable, and affordable solution for mounting a red dot optic on your CZ Shadow pistol. It offers a simple and effective way to enhance your shooting experience without the need for gunsmithing or permanent modifications.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quality of materials and the ease of installation.
I would absolutely recommend this adapter to anyone looking to add a red dot to their CZ Shadow.
If you’re on the fence about switching to a red dot, the Foxtail Precision adapter is a great place to start. Give it a try – you might be surprised at how much it improves your shooting!