Description
You’re scanning the rimfire rack, looking for a workhorse that won’t buckle under the demands of a Missouri farm or a long afternoon at the range. You need accuracy you can trust, reliability that’s a given, and a price tag that doesn’t make you wince. That’s the exact niche the CZ 455 American, .17 HMR, 20.5″, 5rd, Black Synthetic Stock fills. It’s a no-frills, precision-built bolt-action rifle designed for the shooter who values performance over polish, offering legendary CZ barrel quality in a durable, budget-friendly package.
Here’s the thing—this rifle is about getting the job done. The heart of any accurate rifle is its barrel, and CZ’s cold hammer-forged barrels are the stuff of legend, known for their consistency and longevity. Mated to that is the classic American-style stock, but here it’s rendered in tough, weather-resistant black synthetic. This isn’t a fancy presentation-grade walnut; it’s a stock built to be carried through brush, leaned against a fence post, and exposed to the elements without a second thought. The synthetic stock also contributes to the rifle’s manageable weight, which comes in at a comfortable 6 pounds, making it easy to carry all day.
Let’s talk about the chambering: .17 HMR. This little cartridge is a flat-shooting laser beam, perfect for extending your reach on varmints and small game. It offers significantly flatter trajectory and more energy downrange than a .22 WMR, making those 150-yard shots on prairie dogs or groundhongs far more confident. The 5-round detachable magazine is a practical touch for safe unloading and quick reloads in the field. And with a price of $452.69, this CZ sits in a sweet spot—well above bargain-bin plinkers but delivering precision that often rivals rifles costing hundreds more. It’s a classic example of bang-for-buck.
Key Features & Practical Tradeoffs
The 20.5-inch barrel length is a smart compromise. It’s long enough to let the .17 HMR cartridge reach its full velocity potential for maximum ballistic performance, yet it keeps the overall rifle length handy and maneuverable in a truck cab or a ground blind. The synthetic stock is where you see the clearest value play. You’re trading the aesthetic warmth of wood for immense practical benefits: it’s impervious to moisture, won’t warp with humidity changes, and can take a knock that would dent a wood stock. This is a rifle built for real use, not just the safe.
The single-set trigger is a standout feature usually found on much more expensive guns. In its standard mode, it’s a crisp, clean pull. But push it forward to “set” it, and it transforms into a hair-trigger ideal for precision shots. This one feature alone adds tremendous value. The action is smooth and locks up tight on the renowned CZ barrel, which features a crisp 1:9″ rifling twist rate optimized for stabilizing .17 caliber bullets. The rifle is drop-in ready for optics, thanks to its 11mm dovetail receiver, which accepts a huge range of rimfire-specific mounts from brands like Warne, DIP, and EGW.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .17 HMR |
| Barrel Length | 20.5 Inches |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Overall Weight | 6 lbs (approx.) |
| Stock Material | Black Synthetic |
| Trigger | Adjustable Single-Set |
Pros, Cons, and Who It’s For
Pros: Exceptional accuracy for the price, thanks to that cold hammer-forged barrel. The synthetic stock is ultra-durable and low-maintenance. The single-set trigger is a fantastic value-add. The action is famously reliable and smooth. It’s a lightweight, pointable hunting tool.
Cons: The synthetic stock lacks the traditional look and feel of wood. The .17 HMR ammo, while incredibly effective, is more expensive than .22 LR. Some shooters might prefer a longer barrel for absolute max velocity, but the 20.5″ is the practical choice.
So who is this rifle for? It’s for the Missouri landowner who needs a dependable tool for predator and pest control. It’s for the budget-minded precision shooter who wants to stretch their rimfire skills out to 200 yards without breaking the bank. It’s for the hunter who needs a rifle that can handle rain, dust, and hard use without complaint. If your priority is practical performance and proven reliability over fancy cosmetics, this CZ is a standout candidate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I shoot .22 LR out of this .17 HMR model?
A: Absolutely not. The .17 HMR and .22 LR are completely different cartridges. Firing a .22 LR in a .17 HMR chamber is extremely dangerous and can cause catastrophic firearm failure. Only use .17 HMR ammunition in this rifle.
Q: Is the barrel interchangeable with other CZ 455 calibers?
A: Yes, one of the great features of the CZ 455 system is its user-swappable barrel system. You can purchase additional barrels from CZ or aftermarket suppliers in calibers like .22 LR or .22 WMR, allowing you to change calibers with simple tools. This makes the rifle incredibly versatile for its price point.
Q: What kind of scope should I put on it?
A: Given the flat trajectory of the .17 HMR, a scope with adjustable parallax (down to 50 yards or less) is ideal. A quality 3-9x40mm or 4-12x40mm scope from brands like Vortex Crossfire II, Leupold VX-Freedom, or Bushnell Banner are excellent, budget-friendly pairings that match this rifle’s purpose.
Ready to see if this value-packed rimfire rifle is the right fit for your needs? This CZ 455 American, .17 HMR, 20.5″, 5rd, Black Synthetic Stock is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Check current availability and remember, an FFL transfer is required for all firearm purchases.
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