Description
The CZ 457 LUX is a classic European-style bolt-action rimfire rifle chambered in .17 HMR. It’s built around CZ’s modular 457 action and features a traditional hogback walnut stock designed for use with its excellent iron sights, offering a refined, old-world shooting experience straight from the box with no gunsmithing required.
I’ve put a few hundred rounds of various .17 HMR loads through this rifle, and the experience is consistently satisfying. Here’s the thing—it feels like a proper, full-sized rifle, not a plinker. The balance is superb, and that 24.8-inch barrel provides a long sight radius that makes those iron sights incredibly easy to use precisely. The trigger breaks cleanly, and the whole operation is just smooth. It’s a rifle that makes you want to shoot well.
Key Features
- European Hogback Stock: Crafted from Turkish walnut with an integrated cheekpiece, it’s shaped specifically for a natural sight picture with the iron sights.
- Modular 457 System: The barrel can be swapped by the user for a different chambering (like .22 LR or .22 WMR), making it incredibly versatile.
- Crisp Iron Sights: The fully adjustable rear and hooded front sight are outstanding for a factory rifle.
- 11mm Dovetail: Ready for optics mounting without needing separate bases; compatible with many rimfire scope rings from brands like Warne and Leupold.
- Receiver-Mounted Safety: A simple, positive push-to-fire safety is easy to operate without breaking your grip.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .17 HMR |
| Action | Bolt Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 24.8 Inches |
| Stock Material | Turkish Walnut |
| Receiver | 11mm Dovetail |
One of the smartest features is the 11mm dovetail receiver. This means you can mount a scope in minutes using readily available rings—I’ve used Warne Medium rings on mine with a compact 3-9x scope, and it was a perfect fit. The action itself has been slimmed down compared to older models, reducing weight and giving it a more modern profile while retaining that classic soul. At a price of $546.29, it sits in a sweet spot between utilitarian rimfires and custom-grade guns, offering heirloom-quality materials and construction.
Who Is The CZ 457 LUX For?
This rifle is for the shooter who appreciates traditional craftsmanship and wants a rimfire that feels like a centerfire. It’s ideal for the small game hunter who prefers iron sights, the precision-minded plinker, or anyone who just enjoys the tactile pleasure of a well-made bolt action. It’s also a fantastic platform for a young shooter to learn proper rifle fundamentals, given its excellent ergonomics and safety. Given its modularity, it’s a great choice for someone who might want one receiver but multiple calibers down the line.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The walnut stock is genuinely beautiful and functional. The iron sights are among the best available on a production rifle. The modular barrel system is a huge long-term value. The overall fit and finish are exceptional for the price point. The action is smooth and reliable right from the start.
Cons: The traditional stock design may not suit those who prefer a modern, adjustable chassis. The 24.8-inch barrel is long—great for balance and velocity, but potentially cumbersome in thick brush. It comes with only one 5-round magazine, so buying a spare is a wise immediate addition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I convert this .17 HMR to shoot .22 Long Rifle?
A: Yes, absolutely. The CZ 457 system is designed for easy barrel swaps. You would need to purchase a separate CZ 457 barrel assembly chambered in .22 LR. The swap is straightforward and can be done at home with basic tools, effectively giving you two rifles in one.
Q: Are the iron sights removable if I want to use a scope exclusively?
A: The rear sight is easily removable from its dovetail slot on the barrel. The front sight hood can also be taken off, though the blade itself is a permanent part of the barrel band. Removing the rear sight frees up the entire 11mm dovetail for your optic rings.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect from the .17 HMR version?
A: With quality ammunition, the 457 LUX is easily a sub-MOA rifle. The .17 HMR cartridge is inherently accurate, and CZ’s cold-hammer-forged barrel ensures consistency. From a bench rest, I regularly see groups under 0.75 inches at 100 yards, which is more than capable for varmint control or target shooting.
Look, if you want a rimfire with character, one that rewards skill and feels like a lifetime tool, the CZ 457 LUX is a compelling choice. It’s a rifle that works perfectly out of the box but also invites you to grow with it—whether that’s mastering iron sights, adding a scope, or exploring other calibers. This firearm is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See if its classic European style is the right fit for your rack.
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