Description
The CZ 457 Pro Varmint, .22 LR, 16.5″ Barrel, 5rd, Black is a purpose-built, compact rimfire rifle designed for precision shooting and small-game hunting. It’s a shorter, handier evolution of the proven CZ 457 platform, featuring a threaded barrel and a stock that’s ready for optics right out of the box. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of mixed .22 LR through this model, and it’s the kind of rifle that makes you want to shoot all afternoon.
Key Features
- Compact 16.5″ Threaded Barrel: The shorter barrel makes it incredibly maneuverable in the field or on a bench, and the 1/2″-28 threads are ready for a suppressor or muzzle device.
- Pro Varmint Stock: It features an adjustable cheek piece and a beavertail forend for a solid, repeatable grip. The stock geometry promotes a natural, heads-up shooting position.
- CZ’s Famous Cold Hammer-Forged Barrel: This is where the accuracy comes from. CZ barrels are renowned for their consistency and longevity.
- User-Adjustable Trigger: The single-stage trigger is crisp and can be tuned for pull weight, a huge advantage for precision rimfire work.
- Detachable 5-Round Magazine: Reliable feeding is a given, and the magazine release is intuitive.
Specifications & Details
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel Length | 16.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 36.6 inches |
| Weight | 6.3 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Thread Pitch | 1/2″-28 |
Look, the specs tell part of the story, but the feel is what sells it. The 6.3-pound weight gives it a substantial, steady feel without being a burden. The action is buttery smooth from the first bolt cycle, a hallmark of the CZ 457 series. At a price of $562.11, it sits in a sweet spot between budget plinkers and ultra-high-end target guns, offering serious performance for the money. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is perfect for the shooter who wants a do-it-all .22 that doesn’t compromise. It’s for the hunter who needs a quiet, suppressed rig for squirrels or pests. It’s for the new shooter learning fundamentals on a quality platform. And it’s absolutely for the seasoned rimfire enthusiast who appreciates a refined action and exceptional out-of-the-box accuracy. The 16.5-inch barrel length is a real benefit for anyone using a suppressor, keeping the overall package manageable.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The accuracy potential is fantastic—I’ve seen sub-MOA groups with good match ammo. The adjustable stock and trigger are premium features rarely found at this price. The threaded barrel is a must-have today. The entire system is incredibly robust and built to last. It’s also compatible with a huge aftermarket, including chassis systems from MDT and stocks from Boyd’s, if you ever want to change it up.
Cons: The 5-round magazine is fine for precision shooting, but you might want spares for a long plinking session. The stock, while excellent, is a bit heavy for a pure walking varminter—that’s the trade-off for stability. Some might prefer a longer barrel for ultimate velocity, but for most practical .22 LR ranges, the 16.5-inch tube is more than sufficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
A: Yes, it comes from the factory with a 1/2″-28 threaded muzzle, which is the standard for most .22 caliber suppressors. No gunsmithing required to mount one, just remember your thread protector when shooting unsuppressed.
Q: What kind of scope mounts does it use?
A: The CZ 457 uses a proprietary 11mm dovetail rail machined directly into the receiver. You’ll need 11mm rings, which are widely available from brands like Warne, DIP, and UTG. The good news is that it’s a rock-solid mounting platform that holds zero perfectly.
Q: Can it shoot .22 Short or .22 Long?
A: It is chambered for .22 Long Rifle only. You should not fire .22 Short or .22 Long cartridges in this rifle, as they can cause cycling and potential safety issues. Stick with standard or high-velocity .22 LR rounds for reliable and safe operation.
Here’s the thing—if you’re looking for a .22 that feels like a real rifle, shoots like a laser, and has the features to grow with your skills, the CZ 457 Pro Varmint is a standout choice. It bridges the gap between utility and precision better than just about anything else in its class. Check current availability on our site.
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