I am a diehard 1911 fan, but have had an interest in a CZ-75 or EAA equivalent for some time. Any differences between them?
Sorry, but I’m not the one to ask about those. Someone here can help, I’m sure.
Interesting question...and the answer will take you in a full circle. CZ's quality control is exceptionally high, although a lot of people aren't keen on the aesthetics (of the handguns anyways). The design has a lot of Hi-Power elements in it, and the CZ-75 was the pistol Jeff Cooper chose as the basis for his dream pistol, the Bren Ten. Rumor has it that in the 90's when the SAS was looking to replace their Hi-powers, the rank and file wanted to go with the CZ-75, but since the eastern bloc had only recently crumbled, the powers-that-be wanted something from a more established, stable source.
The big advantage EAA had over CZ was in chambering for the 10mm, which CZ never did with the -75 family. The downside is that EAA Witness series developed a reputation for cracking slides, although the word on the street is these problems have been fixed. I'd still refuse to buy an older one, and would be reluctant to buy a newer one.
Now, since you love the 1911, but showed some interest in CZ vs. EAA, you can combine the best of all three worlds...
CZ, under the Dan Wesson name, makes a 1911 in 10mm...