• Why Choose a Dovetail Mount for Your CZ Shadow 2?
• Boss Components CZ Shadow 2 Dovetail Mount Overview
• Complete Step-by-Step Installation Guide
• Optic Compatibility: Which Red Dots Work Best?
• Zeroing Your Red Dot for Competition Success
• Complete Your CZ Shadow 2 Competition Setup
• IPSC & USPSA Division Legality
• Maintenance and Long-Term Care
• Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
• Frequently Asked Questions

CZ Shadow 2 Dovetail Red Dot Mount: Complete Installation & Setup Guide

Adding a red dot sight to your CZ Shadow 2 transforms it from an excellent competition pistol into a championship-winning platform. The Boss Components CZ Shadow 2 Dovetail Red Dot Mount offers the most reliable, zero-gunsmithing solution for mounting popular red dot optics. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of installation, zeroing, and optimizing your CZ Shadow 2 for IPSC Production Optics and USPSA Carry Optics competition.

Why Choose a Dovetail Mount for Your CZ Shadow 2?

When adding a red dot to your CZ Shadow 2, you have three mounting options: slide milling, adapter plates that replace rear sights, or dovetail mounts. The Boss Components Dovetail Mount offers distinct advantages that make it the preferred choice for competitive shooters:

No Permanent Modifications Required

Slide milling is permanent and expensive ($200-400 plus several weeks of downtime). The dovetail mount installs in minutes using the existing rear sight dovetail, preserving your pistol's resale value and allowing you to return to iron sights anytime.

Lower Mounting Height for Natural Point of Aim

The dovetail design positions your red dot closer to the slide than most plate systems, maintaining a more natural head position and faster target acquisition. This lower-third co-witness setup allows you to use your iron sights as backup without removing the optic.

Rock-Solid Lockup

The Boss Components mount uses the proven dovetail interface that CZ designed for their sights, providing exceptional stability. Once installed with proper fitting, the mount will not shift under recoil – even after thousands of rounds.

Maintains Factory Aesthetics

The precision-machined mount integrates seamlessly with your CZ Shadow 2's profile, looking like a factory option rather than an aftermarket add-on.

Shop CZ Shadow 2 Dovetail Red Dot Mount

Boss Components CZ Shadow 2 Dovetail Mount Overview

The Boss Components Dovetail Red Dot Mount is precision-CNC machined from high-grade aluminum, then hard anodized for maximum durability and corrosion resistance. Here's what makes it exceptional:

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Material	7075-T6 Aluminum (aerospace grade)
Finish	Type III Hard Anodized (black)
Weight	45 grams (1.6 oz) – minimal impact on balance
Mounting Pattern	Shield RMSc footprint (adapter plates available)
Compatibility	CZ Shadow 2, CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow, CZ Tactical Sport
Installation Time	15-30 minutes (no gunsmith required)
Division Legal	IPSC Production Optics, USPSA Carry Optics, IPSC Open

What's Included in the Package

• CZ Shadow 2 Dovetail Red Dot Mount (precision-fitted)
• Mounting screws (correct length and thread pitch)
• Thread locker (blue – removable)
• Installation instructions with torque specifications
• Allen key (correct size for mounting screws)

Complete Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Installing the Boss Components Dovetail Mount is straightforward, but proper technique ensures optimal performance and longevity. Follow these steps carefully:

Tools You'll Need

• Nylon/brass punch (for removing rear sight)
• Small hammer or mallet
• Torque wrench (15-20 in-lbs range) – essential for proper installation
• Degreaser or rubbing alcohol (to clean dovetail)
• Clean microfiber cloth
• Sight pusher tool (optional but highly recommended)
• Thread locker (blue – included with mount)

Step 1: Safety First – Unload and Verify

CRITICAL: Remove magazine, lock slide back, and visually and physically inspect chamber to confirm your CZ Shadow 2 is completely unloaded. Remove all ammunition from your workspace. This is non-negotiable.

Step 2: Remove Factory Rear Sight

The CZ Shadow 2 rear sight is installed in a dovetail and drifts from right to left (when viewed from the rear):

1. Secure the slide: Use a padded vise or slide block to secure the slide. Protect the finish with leather or soft cloth.
2. Position your punch: Place a brass or nylon punch against the right side of the rear sight base (NOT the sight blade itself).
3. Tap carefully: Using a small hammer, tap the punch firmly but not aggressively. The sight should start to move. Continue tapping until the sight slides out the left side of the dovetail.
4. Alternative method: If you have a sight pusher tool, use it to press the sight out smoothly. This is the preferred method as it prevents marring the finish.

Step 3: Clean the Dovetail

Once the factory sight is removed:

1. Inspect the dovetail channel for any debris, old thread locker, or metal burrs
2. Clean thoroughly with degreaser or rubbing alcohol
3. Dry completely with a clean cloth
4. Light surface rust can be removed with 0000 steel wool or fine brass brush

Step 4: Test-Fit the Dovetail Mount

Before final installation:

1. Slide the Boss Components mount into the dovetail (from left to right)
2. It should slide with moderate resistance – not loose, not extremely tight
3. The mount should sit flush with the slide's top surface
4. If the fit is too loose, contact Boss Components for a replacement (rare but possible)
5. If the fit is too tight, a qualified gunsmith can lightly fit the dovetail (only necessary in rare cases)

Step 5: Install the Mount Securely

The Boss Components mount uses a set screw to lock it in place:

1. Position the mount: Slide it fully into the dovetail, centered on the slide
2. Apply thread locker: Place a small drop of blue thread locker (included) on the set screw threads
3. Insert set screw: Thread the set screw into the bottom of the mount by hand until it makes contact with the slide
4. Torque properly: Using a torque wrench, tighten to 15-18 in-lbs. This is critical – overtightening can damage the mount or slide
5. Let cure: Allow thread locker to cure for 24 hours before live fire (dry fire practice is fine)

Step 6: Mount Your Red Dot Optic

Once the dovetail mount is installed:

1. Clean the mounting surface: Remove any oil or debris from the top of the mount
2. Position your optic: Place your red dot on the mount (use adapter plate if needed)
3. Apply thread locker: Small drop of blue thread locker on each optic mounting screw
4. Torque to spec: Follow your optic manufacturer's torque specification (typically 10-15 in-lbs)
5. Verify alignment: Ensure optic is properly centered and level with the slide

Step 7: Function Check

Before heading to the range:

1. Cycle the slide manually 20-30 times – mount should not shift
2. Press down firmly on the optic – no movement should occur
3. Dry fire 20 times – verify mount remains solid
4. Visual inspection – check that all screws are flush and tight

Get Your CZ Shadow 2 Dovetail Mount Today

Optic Compatibility: Which Red Dots Work Best?

The Boss Components Dovetail Mount uses the Shield RMSc footprint as its base mounting pattern. Here's your complete compatibility guide:

Direct-Mount Optics (No Adapter Needed)

• Shield RMSc – Compact, lightweight, excellent battery life
• Holosun 507K / 407K – Popular choice, shake-awake, solar backup
• Holosun EPS Carry – Enclosed emitter, extremely durable
• Swampfox Sentinel – Budget-friendly, reliable performance

Adapter Plate Required Optics

These premium competition optics require an RMSc-to-RMR adapter plate:

• Trijicon RMR Type 2 – Industry standard, bombproof reliability
• Trijicon SRO – Larger window, excellent for competition
• Holosun 507C / 508T – Multi-reticle system, titanium housing
• Leupold DeltaPoint Pro – Clear glass, motion sensor

Recommended Optics for Competition

Based on feedback from IPSC and USPSA competitors using the Boss Components mount:

Optic	Best For	Dot Size	Price Range
Holosun 507K-X2	All-around best value	2 MOA / 32 MOA circle	$$$
Trijicon SRO	Serious competitors	2.5 MOA or 5.0 MOA	$$$$
Holosun EPS Carry	Maximum durability	2 MOA / Multi-reticle	$$$
Swampfox Sentinel	Budget-conscious shooters	3 MOA or 6 MOA	$$

Zeroing Your Red Dot for Competition Success

Proper zeroing is critical for competitive performance. Here's the proven process used by top IPSC and USPSA shooters:

Initial Range Zero (15 Yards)

1. Start at 15 yards – This is the standard competition zero distance
2. Use a stable rest – Bench rest or sandbag to eliminate shooter error
3. Fire a 5-shot group – Aim at center of target, note where group hits
4. Adjust windage – Move dot left/right to center group horizontally
5. Adjust elevation – Move dot up/down to center group vertically
6. Confirm zero – Fire another 5-shot group, should be centered

Verify at Multiple Distances

Once zeroed at 15 yards, confirm at competition distances:

• 7 yards: Dot should be slightly low (1-2 inches) – this is normal
• 15 yards: Perfect zero – dot equals point of impact
• 25 yards: Dot should be slightly high (2-3 inches) – acceptable for competition
• 50 yards: Steel hits should still be achievable with holdover

Fine-Tuning for Your Shooting Style

After initial zero, test with your actual competition ammunition and shooting stance:

• Fire 50-100 rounds in your competition stance (not from a rest)
• Note any consistent point-of-impact shift from your zero
• Make small adjustments if needed (1-2 clicks at a time)
• Most shooters end up within 1-2 MOA of their bench zero

Complete Your CZ Shadow 2 Competition Setup

The Boss Components Dovetail Red Dot Mount is just the beginning. Here's how to build a complete Production Optics / Carry Optics competition pistol:

Essential Speed Upgrades

CZ Shadow 2 Extended Magazine Release – $39.99
Reduce magazine change time by 0.3-0.5 seconds. The extended paddle is easier to activate under stress and works perfectly with gloved hands. This is the single most impactful upgrade after adding a red dot.

CZ Shadow 2 Magazine Base Pads – $39.99
Brass magazine base pads add weight low in the grip for improved recoil control and easier magazine insertion during reloads. The beveled design guides magazines home even under stress.

Recoil Control System

CZ Shadow 2 Tungsten Guide Rod
Add 90-120 grams of weight forward in the pistol to reduce muzzle flip by 15-20%. Tungsten guide rods dramatically improve sight tracking and follow-up shot speed, especially critical when shooting with a red dot where any movement is magnified.

CZ Shadow 2 Brass Grips
Solid brass grips add 90+ grams low in the grip for superior recoil management and improved balance. The increased weight makes the Shadow 2 feel softer-shooting and more stable during rapid strings of fire.

Complete Production Optics Package

Component	Performance Benefit	Price
Dovetail Red Dot Mount	Faster target acquisition, 30% better accuracy	$99.99
Extended Magazine Release	0.3-0.5s faster reloads	$39.99
Magazine Base Pads	Improved reloads, better grip weight	$39.99
Tungsten Guide Rod	15-20% recoil reduction	Contact
Brass Grips	Superior balance, softer recoil	Contact

Total Package Impact: Shooters report 2-4 second improvements per stage after implementing these upgrades together.

View All CZ Shadow 2 Upgrades

IPSC & USPSA Division Legality

The Boss Components Dovetail Red Dot Mount is legal in these divisions:

IPSC Divisions

• Production Optics ✅ – Specifically designed for this division
• Open Division ✅ – All optics permitted
• Standard Division ❌ – Optics not permitted
• Classic Division ❌ – Optics not permitted

USPSA Divisions

• Carry Optics ✅ – Specifically designed for this division
• Open Division ✅ – All optics permitted
• Production ❌ – Optics not permitted
• Limited ❌ – Optics not permitted (slide-mounted only in Limited Optics)

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

The Boss Components mount requires minimal maintenance, but these practices ensure long-term reliability:

After Every Match or Range Session

• Visual inspection: Check mount and optic screws for any loosening
• Clean lens: Use proper optic lens cleaner (never solvents)
• Wipe down mount: Remove powder residue with clean cloth
• Check zero: Quick confirmation shot at known distance

Every 1,000 Rounds

• Remove optic: Check mounting surface for wear or debris
• Inspect set screw: Verify it hasn't backed out (it shouldn't)
• Clean thoroughly: Remove any carbon buildup around mount
• Re-apply thread locker: If you removed screws, use fresh thread locker
• Verify torque: Re-torque all screws to specification

Long-Term Storage

• Store pistol in climate-controlled environment if possible
• Cover optic with lens cap to protect from dust
• Remove battery from optic if storing >3 months
• Light coat of oil on mount exterior (avoid mounting surfaces)

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Issue: Mount Won't Slide into Dovetail

Causes:

• Debris or old thread locker in dovetail channel
• Paint or finish buildup in dovetail
• Manufacturing tolerance stack-up (rare)

Solutions:

• Thoroughly clean dovetail with degreaser
• Use brass brush to remove any finish buildup
• If still too tight, contact Boss Components for fitment support
• Never force the mount – can damage slide or mount

Issue: Mount Shifts Under Recoil

Causes:

• Set screw not tightened to proper torque
• Thread locker not properly cured
• Set screw making contact with slide surface

Solutions:

• Remove mount, clean dovetail and set screw
• Re-apply thread locker, allow 24-hour cure time
• Torque set screw to 15-18 in-lbs (use torque wrench)
• Fire 50 rounds, check for any movement

Issue: Optic Won't Co-Witness with Iron Sights

Explanation: The dovetail mount provides lower-third co-witness, meaning you'll see your iron sights in the lower portion of the red dot window. This is by design and preferred by most competition shooters.

If you want absolute co-witness: The dovetail mounting height doesn't allow for true absolute co-witness. Consider slide milling if this is critical to you (though most competitors prefer lower-third).

Issue: Zero Won't Hold / Shifts Between Sessions

Causes:

• Optic mounting screws not properly torqued
• Mount set screw loose
• Optic battery dying (causes POI shifts)
• Shooter error (most common – verify with multiple shooters)

Solutions:

• Check all screws with torque wrench
• Replace optic battery
• Have another shooter verify zero shift
• Contact Boss Components if mechanical issue suspected

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a gunsmith to install the Boss Components dovetail mount?

No. The Boss Components Dovetail Mount is designed for user installation. With basic tools (punch, hammer, torque wrench), most shooters complete installation in 15-30 minutes. However, if you're uncomfortable removing your rear sight or working on your pistol, a gunsmith can install it in minutes for minimal cost.

Will this mount work with my CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow or CZ Tactical Sport?

Yes. The Boss Components mount is compatible with CZ Shadow 2, CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow, and CZ Tactical Sport models. All three use the same rear sight dovetail dimensions. Verify your specific model on the product page or contact us if unsure.

Can I use my iron sights with the red dot mounted?

Yes. The dovetail mount provides lower-third co-witness, meaning your iron sights are visible in the lower portion of your red dot window. If your optic battery dies or the optic is damaged, you can still use iron sights. Many competition shooters appreciate this backup capability.

What's the best red dot optic to pair with this mount?

For competition shooting on a CZ Shadow 2, the most popular choices are the Holosun 507K-X2 (best value, multi-reticle system, shake-awake) and Trijicon SRO (larger window, bombproof reliability). The Holosun EPS Carry is gaining popularity for its enclosed emitter design. All work excellently with the Boss Components mount. Consider dot size: 2-3 MOA for precision, 6 MOA for speed.

How do I know if my zero has shifted?

Establish a baseline zero at 15 yards, then periodically verify with a 5-shot group from a rest. Most competitors check zero at the start of each match day. If you notice consistent POI shift exceeding 2 inches at 15 yards, investigate the cause (screws, battery, or actual zero shift). The Boss Components mount holds zero exceptionally well – most shift is due to loose screws or dying batteries.

Is this mount legal for IPSC Production Optics and USPSA Carry Optics?

Yes. The dovetail mounting method is specifically approved for Production Optics (IPSC) and Carry Optics (USPSA) divisions as of current 2025 rules. Always verify current rules before competition, as divisions update annually. The mount is also legal in Open Division.

What tools do I absolutely need for installation?

Essential tools: brass or nylon punch, small hammer, torque wrench (15-20 in-lbs range), degreaser, and clean cloth. Optional but recommended: sight pusher tool (makes rear sight removal much easier). The mount includes the Allen key and thread locker you need. Don't skip the torque wrench – proper torque is critical for reliability.

How much does the mount weigh, and will it affect my pistol's balance?

The mount weighs only 45 grams (1.6 oz), plus your optic weight (typically 20-35 grams). Total added weight is 65-80 grams, which most shooters don't notice. When paired with CZ Shadow 2 Tungsten Guide Rod and Brass Grips, the balance actually improves – weight is optimally distributed for recoil management.

What should I do if my mount is too loose in the dovetail?

A properly fitted mount should slide with moderate resistance. If your mount feels loose (slides easily with no resistance), contact Boss Components immediately for a replacement. A loose mount will not hold zero reliably. This is rare due to our tight manufacturing tolerances, but we'll replace any mount that doesn't fit properly at no cost.

Can I remove the mount and reinstall my factory iron sights later?

Absolutely. The installation is completely reversible. Keep your factory rear sight in a safe place. When you want to return to iron sights, simply remove the mount and reinstall your factory sight. The dovetail is not modified in any way during installation.

Related Articles: Master Your CZ Shadow 2 Setup

Advantages of Red Dot Sights on CZ Shadow 2

Discover why adding a red dot transforms your CZ Shadow 2 performance in IPSC and USPSA competition.

Complete CZ Shadow 2 Upgrade Guide

Build the ultimate Production Optics setup with our comprehensive guide to CZ Shadow 2 upgrades.

CZ Shadow 2 Magazine Base Pad Benefits

Learn how brass magazine base pads improve reloads and recoil control for competition shooting.

Extended Magazine Release Installation Guide

Master the installation and benefits of an extended magazine release for faster reloads.

IPSC Production Optics Division Guide

Understand the rules, equipment requirements, and winning strategies for Production Optics competition.

View All CZ Shadow 2 Guides

Get Your CZ Shadow 2 Dovetail Red Dot Mount Today →

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