[Walt Sherrill]

As noted above, the CZs alloy-framed guns are primarily aluminum and they (the CZ compact with alloy frames) are NEVER considered steel. Nor are the Beretta 92 and the SIGs cited.

There are steel alloys, and that may be why sigpro2340 felt the CZ alloy-framed guns were steel.

In the case of steel alloys, other ingredients are added to iron and carbon to give the steel different characteristics -- but the material remains primarily steel. In the case of the CZ non-steel frames, the material remains primarily aluminum.

There is a noticeable difference in weight, which as noted, can make a difference if you carry all day. The difference between the CZ P-01 and the Glock 19 is 5 oz. That doesn't seem like much, but it can be noticeable. (Ammo in the gun makes a difference too, and the larger capacity of these guns adds WEIGHT, that becomes apparent as the day stretches on.)

The PCR weighs 27 ounces.
The P-01 weighs 28 ounces.
The (steel) Compact weight 32 ounces.

The Glock 19 weighs 23 ounces (Gen 4)
The Glock 17 weights 25 ounces. (Gen 4)