CZ 457 .22 LR
Model: 02340
CZ 457 .22 LR
Model: 02340
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The CZ 457 has the lightest factory trigger of any bolt-action .22 LR in this class. CZ ships it set within a 2.5-3.1 lb range, with user adjustment down to 1.8 lbs. That's roughly a pound lighter than the Ruger Precision Rimfire's factory setting and about a pound lighter than the Tikka T1x's measured 3 lbs 8 oz pull. For pure accuracy work at 50 and 100 yards, that trigger character is the reason precision rimfire shooters pick the CZ first. The cold hammer-forged 20.5" barrel is another accuracy-forward choice — Czech production, same process CZ uses on their centerfire competition rifles.
This listing is the Varmint variant with Turkish walnut stock and a heavier barrel profile. The CZ 457 line is broad: American (lighter sporter barrel, walnut), Varmint (heavier barrel, walnut or laminate), Lux (premium walnut, European sporter styling), and LRP (chassis stock, detachable magazine, Picatinny rail). The base variant reviewed here uses an 11mm dovetail rail rather than Picatinny, so you'll need 11mm-to-Picatinny rings or proper dovetail mounts — something to plan for if you're coming from a Picatinny-mounted scope. The CZ 457 LRP variant addresses this with a full chassis and Picatinny setup.
Where the CZ 457 wins is factory-ready rimfire precision in a traditional rifle package. Reviewers consistently group it sub-MOA at 50 yards with quality .22 LR ammunition. The stock trigger needs no replacement. The barrel needs no break-in procedures beyond fouling shots. If you want the most accurate .22 bolt you can buy without chassis ergonomics, the CZ 457 is the rifle most precision rimfire shooters would point you toward.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- The 2.5-3.1 lb factory trigger range is the lightest in this class. The Ruger Precision Rimfire ships in a 2.25-5 lb adjustable range and the Tikka T1x measured 3 lbs 8 oz at American Rifleman. Most precision rimfire shooters consider 2.5-3 lbs the practical floor for field shooting, and the CZ hits it without any aftermarket work.
- Cold hammer-forged 20.5" barrel from Czech production. Reviewers note the barrel accuracy is exceptional for the price, with most examples grouping at or below 1 MOA at 50 yards using quality .22 LR ammunition.
- The 457 action accepts a wide range of aftermarket stocks — from Manners and Boyd's laminates to full chassis systems — because CZ designed it with a standardized stock interface. The action can be re-stocked without fitting work.
- Ships with an 11mm dovetail rail, not Picatinny. If your scopes and rings are Picatinny, you need an adapter or new rings — an extra purchase the Ruger Precision Rimfire avoids with its included 30 MOA Picatinny base.
- The standard 5-round magazine is small for range sessions. Ten-round aftermarket mags are available but not included, and the CZ 457 does not accept the higher-capacity options that the RPR's 15-round BX-15 provides.
Where to Buy
No prices available at this time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which CZ 457 variant should I buy — American, Varmint, Lux, or LRP?
The American is the lightest and most traditional-looking — sporter barrel, walnut stock, best for general use and casual precision shooting. The Varmint (this listing) has a heavier barrel that runs cooler during extended range sessions and groups marginally tighter when the barrel is warm. The Lux is the premium walnut European sporter version — same accuracy, more refined aesthetics, higher price. The LRP is the chassis model with Picatinny rail and adjustable stock, built for NRL22 and field precision competition. If you already shoot a chassis rifle and want the same ergonomics, go LRP. If you want a traditional rifle that just shoots extremely well, the Varmint is the most practical choice.
Does the CZ 457 need a break-in period?
No formal break-in is required, though most owners run 50-100 fouling shots before expecting the best groups. The cold hammer-forged barrel is accurate from the first range trip — the fouling process just settles the bore's surface. After the initial session, accuracy is typically consistent and repeatable without special procedures.
What scopes and rings fit the CZ 457's 11mm dovetail?
The 457 uses a standard European 11mm dovetail. Most quality scope ring manufacturers (Talley, Leupold, Warne) make 11mm dovetail rings that mount directly. Alternatively, an 11mm-to-Picatinny adapter rail lets you use Picatinny-mount rings if you already own them. The CZ 457 LRP variant ships with Picatinny if you want to avoid the rail question entirely.
