Description
The CZ 457 Royal .22 LR, 20.5″ Threaded Barrel, Nitride, Walnut Stock is a premium, feature-rich bolt-action rimfire rifle designed for precision shooting, hunting, and suppressor use. It combines classic aesthetics with modern functionality, offering a robust action, a cold-hammer-forged barrel, and a suppressor-ready threaded muzzle, all wrapped in a handsome European walnut stock. This is a rifle built for those who appreciate the finer details of a .22.
I’ve put a few hundred rounds of everything from standard velocity to match-grade ammo through this platform, and the consistency is what always stands out. The action is smooth from the factory, and the single-set trigger is a genuine pleasure to use. Here’s the thing—this isn’t just a plinker; it’s a serious tool that rewards good technique.
Key Features
- Cold-hammer-forged 20.5-inch barrel with a 1/2″-28 threaded muzzle, ready for a suppressor or muzzle device.
- Durable black nitride finish on the metal for enhanced corrosion resistance and a sleek look.
- Premium European walnut stock with a classic schnabel fore-end and checkering for a secure, traditional grip.
- CZ’s renowned single-set trigger, offering a crisp standard pull or an ultra-lightweight set pull for precision shots.
- Controlled-round feed Mauser-style extractor for reliable feeding and extraction.
- 11mm dovetail receiver for easy optic mounting, compatible with a wide range of rimfire scope rings.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel Length | 20.5 inches |
| Thread Pitch | 1/2″-28 |
| Overall Length | 40.2 inches |
| Weight | 6.3 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 5-round detachable box magazine (10-round available) |
Weighing in at 6.3 pounds, the Royal balances beautifully offhand or from a bench. The 20.5-inch barrel length is a sweet spot, providing excellent velocity and a steady sight picture without being unwieldy in the field. The magazine is a reliable 5-round detachable box, though 10-round magazines are readily available if you want more capacity for a range session. At $725.67, you’re investing in a rifle that will last a lifetime and likely appreciate in value.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is for the shooter who views a .22 as more than just a trainer. It’s for the small game hunter who demands a clean, ethical shot, the precision rimfire competitor looking for an out-of-the-box advantage, or the collector who values fine wood and metalwork. If you want a suppressor host that looks and performs like a centerpiece, this is it. The action is drop-in ready for aftermarket chassis systems from companies like MDT or KRG if you ever want to switch to a tactical configuration, but the walnut stock is so good you probably won’t want to.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The fit and finish are outstanding for the price point. The nitride finish is tough and low-maintenance. The threaded barrel is a huge value-add for suppressor owners. The single-set trigger is arguably the best factory trigger in its class. The classic walnut stock provides a warm, solid feel that synthetic stocks can’t match.
Cons: The price point puts it above entry-level .22 rifles. The classic stock design may not appeal to shooters preferring a purely tactical aesthetic. As with most precision rifles, it can be picky with ammunition—you’ll need to test a few brands to find its favorite. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases, a standard but necessary step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the barrel thread protector removable easily?
A: Yes, it is. The protector is metal and threads on cleanly. It comes off without issue using basic tools, revealing clean, well-cut 1/2″-28 threads ready for your suppressor or compensator.
Q: What kind of scope rings does it use?
A: The receiver has an 11mm dovetail, which is the standard for many rimfire and air rifles. Popular ring sets from brands like Warne, Leupold, and UTG are widely available and will mount securely. No special bases are needed.
Q: Can the stock be bedded or floated?
A: The barrel is fully free-floated from the factory, which is a key contributor to its accuracy. The action sits in a precise aluminum bedding block, providing exceptional stability. For 99% of shooters, this setup is perfect as-is with no gunsmithing required.
Look, if you’re in the market for a .22 that bridges the gap between a utilitarian tool and a work of art, the CZ 457 Royal deserves your full attention. It’s accurate, reliable, and built with a pride of craftsmanship that’s getting harder to find. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to qualified buyers. See the full details on our site.
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