Phoenix Redback Ultralight 1000 Round Review: The Lightweight Swiss Made Shadow 2

Published on October 12, 2022
Duration: 12:00

This review of the Phoenix Redback Ultralight highlights its Swiss-made quality, comparing it to the CZ Shadow 2. The pistol offers exceptional accuracy and a lighter weight for potential carry, but has less aftermarket support and slightly more recoil than its heavier counterparts. The review details reliability testing, trigger performance, and ergonomic features, concluding it's a high-quality, accurate competition pistol worth considering.

Quick Summary

The Phoenix Redback Ultralight is a Swiss-made, CZ 75-platform pistol with an aluminum frame, weighing approximately 32 ounces. It offers exceptional accuracy, comparable to custom 2011s, and is suitable for concealed carry due to its light weight. While it boasts tight tolerances and excellent build quality, it has less aftermarket support and slightly more recoil than heavier counterparts like the CZ Shadow 2.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction & Overview
  2. 00:20Phoenix Redback Ultralight Introduction
  3. 01:10CZ 75 Variant Comparison
  4. 01:20Double-Action/Single-Action Trigger
  5. 01:48Frame Materials & Options
  6. 02:07Build Quality & Features
  7. 02:38Trigger Performance Analysis
  8. 02:54Frame Material Comparison (vs. Shadow 2)
  9. 03:07Ergonomics & Grip Features
  10. 03:33Weight Comparison (vs. Shadow 2)
  11. 03:54Carryability & Recoil Control Trade-off
  12. 04:20Recoil Comparison (vs. P226)
  13. 04:55Reliability Testing & Ammunition Issues
  14. 05:36Tight Tolerances & Break-in
  15. 06:04Ammunition Types Tested
  16. 06:12Accuracy Testing Results
  17. 06:40Long-Range Accuracy Demonstration
  18. 07:01Accuracy vs. Competition Pistols
  19. 07:17Performance vs. CZ Shadow 2
  20. 07:45Trigger Reset & Speed Comparison
  21. 08:03Aftermarket Support Issues
  22. 08:07Holster & Grip Compatibility
  23. 08:14Clone Strategy Critique
  24. 08:35Stock Configuration Review
  25. 08:58Overall Assessment & Recoil Control
  26. 09:09Carryability Advantage
  27. 09:21Future CZ Improvements
  28. 09:30Value Proposition & Competition
  29. 09:53Fit, Feel, and Personal Preference
  30. 10:03Ultralight vs. Heavier Redback
  31. 10:21Overall Recommendation & Value
  32. 10:32Build Quality & Durability
  33. 10:57Maintenance & Wear Resistance
  34. 11:03Recommended Improvements
  35. 11:16Final Thoughts & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Phoenix Redback Ultralight pistol?

The Phoenix Redback Ultralight is a Swiss-made pistol based on the CZ 75 platform, featuring an aluminum frame for reduced weight. It's known for its tight tolerances, exceptional accuracy, and is available in double-action/single-action or single-action only configurations.

How does the Phoenix Redback Ultralight compare to the CZ Shadow 2?

The Redback Ultralight is significantly lighter (32 oz vs. 44 oz) and more accurate than the CZ Shadow 2. However, the Shadow 2 offers better recoil control and a wider range of aftermarket support due to its heavier steel frame and established platform.

What are the trigger specifications for the Phoenix Redback Ultralight?

The double-action/single-action variant of the Phoenix Redback Ultralight has a trigger pull weight of approximately 2.5 pounds for the single-action break and around 6 pounds for the double-action pull. This is considered good, but not as refined as some custom triggers.

What were the reliability issues encountered with the Phoenix Redback Ultralight?

Initial reliability issues were linked to underpowered, remanufactured ammunition. After a break-in period and switching to standard ammunition, the pistol performed flawlessly for the remainder of the 1000-round test, indicating the tight tolerances require proper ammunition.

Is the Phoenix Redback Ultralight suitable for concealed carry?

Yes, the Phoenix Redback Ultralight's significantly lighter aluminum frame (around 32 oz) makes it a strong contender for concealed carry compared to heavier pistols like the CZ Shadow 2, while still offering high-end accuracy.

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