You’ll find the CZ 455 Thumbhole delivers exceptional sub-MOA accuracy through its bolt-action design, featuring a 20.5-inch cold hammer-forged, fluted barrel chambered in .22 LR. The Boyd’s nutmeg laminated thumbhole stock enhances grip stability for precision target work and varmint hunting applications. With an adjustable trigger system providing 2-3 lb pull weight and reliable construction, this rifle achieves 0.5″ groups at 50 yards. Further specifications and performance details reveal additional capabilities.
Key Takeaways
- Bolt-action rifle chambered in .17 HMR with 16-inch barrel, featuring laminated thumbhole stock for enhanced grip stability.
- Delivers exceptional sub-MOA accuracy with 0.5-inch precision at 50 yards, ideal for varmint hunting and target shooting.
- Features adjustable trigger system, 5-round magazine capacity, and 1/2 x 20 UNF muzzle threading for suppressor compatibility.
- Pricing ranges from €550 online to €850 in Irish retail markets, with availability limited due to discontinued status.
- Common issues include heavy magazine release catch, mushy trigger engagement, and thumbhole ergonomics limiting shooter compatibility.
Description
When precision rimfire shooting demands both accuracy and ergonomic comfort, the CZ 455 Thumbhole Rifle delivers with its bolt-action design chambered in .22 LR. You’ll appreciate the 20.5-inch cold hammer-forged, heavy-contour, fluted barrel that provides consistent accuracy.
The Boyds nutmeg laminated thumbhole stock enhances your grip stability, making this rifle ideal for varmint hunting and precision target applications.
Price Range
Market fluctuations significantly impact CZ 455 Thumbhole Rifle pricing across different regions, with costs ranging from €550 online to €850 in Irish retail markets. Brexit’s exchange rate effects contribute to these disparities, particularly affecting cold hammer forged barrel variants with fluted barrel configurations and laminate thumbhole stocks.
| Region | Standard Price | Premium Features |
|---|---|---|
| Online | €550 | Base configuration |
| Ireland | €850 | Post-Brexit pricing |
| Scotland | Variable | Limited availability |
Specifications
You’ll find the CZ 455 Thumbhole Rifle’s specifications reflect its purpose-built design for precision shooting applications. The rifle’s core dimensions and construction materials directly impact your shooting performance and handling characteristics. These technical specifications determine the platform’s suitability for your specific hunting or target shooting requirements.
| Specification | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 16 inches | Optimized for 17HMR ballistics |
| Chambering | .17 HMR | High-velocity rimfire cartridge |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds standard | 10-round option available |
| Stock Material | Laminate thumbhole | Right-handed configuration |
Weight
Heft defines the CZ 455 Thumbhole’s shooting characteristics, with the rifle tipping scales at 8 pounds, 5 ounces field-ready. The laminate thumbhole stock contributes 3 pounds to overall weight, while the cold hammer-forged, fluted barrel adds substantial mass.
This muzzle-heavy configuration enhances target acquisition and shooting stability, though you’ll notice increased weight compared to standard rimfire platforms.
Barrel Length
Barrel configuration centers on a 16-inch cold hammer-forged tube that delivers optimal ballistic performance without sacrificing portability.
You’ll find the heavy-contour, fluted design features six grooves with 1:16 right-hand twist rate, engineered for consistent accuracy.
The barrel’s threaded with 1/2 x 20 UNF muzzle threads, allowing suppressor or muzzle device attachment for enhanced shooting performance.
Material Made Out Of
Material specifications showcase premium construction through cold hammer-forged steel components that form the rifle’s core foundation.
You’ll find the CZ 455 Thumbhole constructed from a solid billet of high-quality steel, ensuring exceptional durability and precision. The cold hammer-forged barrel and receiver deliver consistent performance while maintaining structural integrity under demanding conditions, providing reliable accuracy for precision shooting applications.
Chambered In
Chambering specifications center on the .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) cartridge, delivering exceptional ballistic performance through high-velocity projectiles reaching 2,600 fps.
You’ll benefit from the optimized 1:9″ rifling twist rate that stabilizes lightweight projectiles effectively. The 16-inch barrel maximizes the cartridge’s high velocity potential, providing superior power and extended range compared to standard .22 LR configurations for precision varmint applications.
Capacity
Magazine capacity delivers a standard 5-shot single-column polymer configuration that balances compact handling with sufficient firepower for typical varmint hunting scenarios. You’ll find the magazine release positioned at the front of the magazine well for quick reloads.
An optional 10-shot magazine upgrade expands your capacity, matching competitive platforms like the Ruger 77/17 and Browning T-Bolt rifles.
Trigger Pull
Trigger pull breaks cleanly at 2-3 pounds with CZ’s precision-engineered system that adjusts up to 400 grams for customized performance. The factory second-stage weighs approximately 300 grams, delivering crisp engagement for enhanced accuracy.
This feather trigger system excels in target shooting applications, though you’ll find reduced tactile feedback when operating with heavy gloves during field conditions.
Safety?
Safety mechanisms integrate seamlessly with the CZ 455’s design through a rotary safety catch that physically blocks the striker when engaged, preventing accidental discharge.
You’ll find the rotary safety catch operates with positive engagement, while the cocked action indicator provides visual confirmation of the rifle’s firing readiness.
This safety catch system ensures reliable operation during field use.
Action
Action specifications center on a cylindrical steel receiver machined from solid billet construction, delivering the structural integrity required for consistent accuracy.
The bolt utilizes twin extractor hooks for reliable feeding, while bolt handle root lockup ensures secure chambering.
You’ll find integral receiver grooves facilitate straightforward scope mounting without additional hardware requirements for your optics setup.
Optic Ready?
Optic mounting capabilities prove straightforward with the CZ 455’s integral 1/2″ dovetail rail machined directly into the receiver’s top surface. This CZ 455 Thumbhole configuration eliminates separate base requirements while providing secure optics attachment.
The integral dovetail scope mount accommodates various sight systems, from low-power hunting scopes to precision target optics, maximizing the rifle’s inherent accuracy potential through proper glass selection.
Picatinny Rail?
Picatinny rail integration remains absent from the CZ 455 Thumbhole’s design, as the rifle relies exclusively on its machined 11mm dovetail mounting system. You’ll find the dovetail mount machined directly into the receiver, providing secure optic attachment without rail adaptations.
This 11mm dovetail configuration ensures compatibility with standard rimfire scope rings while maintaining reliable mounting for optical sights and accessories.
Review
You’ll find the CZ 455 Thumbhole delivers exceptional sub-MOA accuracy with its cold hammer-forged barrel and adjustable trigger system, though its 8+ lb weight and discontinued status present notable considerations.
The rifle’s reliability stems from CZ’s proven bolt-action design and quality control standards, making it a preferred choice among precision rimfire competitors and varmint hunters.
Understanding its strengths and limitations will help you determine if this platform meets your specific shooting requirements.
Pros
When examining the CZ 455 Thumbhole’s performance capabilities, several standout features immediately distinguish this rifle from standard rimfire platforms. The CZ 455 Varmint Thumbhole delivers exceptional precision shooting through its laminate stock design and crisp trigger mechanism.
| Feature | Specification | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger Pull | 2-3 lbs | Enhanced control |
| Accuracy | 0.5″ @ 50 yards | Competition-grade precision |
| Stock Design | Laminate thumbhole | Superior stability |
| Optics Mount | 1/2″ dovetail | Secure attachment |
| Muzzle Thread | 1/2 x 20 UNF | Suppressor compatibility |
The Varmint Thumbhole Fluted configuration maximizes accuracy potential for demanding applications.
Cons
Despite its impressive accuracy credentials, the CZ 455 Thumbhole presents several operational limitations that may impact your shooting experience. The magazine release catch requires excessive force, particularly problematic with gloves. The steel trigger delivers heavy pull weight with mushy engagement. The bolt face configuration, combined with 16-inch barrel length, compromises .17 HMR velocity potential.
| Issue | Impact | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Magazine release catch accessibility | Fumbled reloads under pressure | High |
| Steel trigger pull weight | Reduced precision potential | Medium |
| Thumbhole stock ergonomics | Limited shooter compatibility | Medium |
| 16-inch barrel velocity loss | Compromised long-range performance | High |
| Pricing disparity concerns | Poor value proposition locally | Low |
Reliability
While operational concerns affect user experience, the CZ 455 Thumbhole’s mechanical reliability stands as its defining strength.
You’ll find the precision-machined bolt cycles smoothly across ammunition types, while the firing pin delivers consistent ignition. The rear of the bolt features robust extractors that prevent feeding malfunctions. This well-engineered action maintains reliable performance through extensive use.
Most Commonly Used By
Precision shooters across multiple disciplines gravitate toward the CZ 455 Thumbhole for its consistent sub-MOA performance and ergonomic design advantages. Small game hunters and competitive target shooters dominate usage statistics, while varmint control specialists appreciate its grey laminate stock durability.
Youth shooters benefit from balanced ergonomics, making it essential reading in the Sporting Airgun Handbook alongside Hunters Ultimate Lightweight PCP comparisons.
Similar Models
The CZ 455 platform offers several variants that share the rifle’s proven action while targeting different shooting applications. You’ll find the Varmint Thumbhole with its 20.5-inch barrel, the FS Thumbhole featuring adjustable triggers, and the Tactical version with fluted barrels.
Resources like comprehensive magazines highlight these well spent group limited options, each optimizing performance for specific shooting disciplines and user preferences.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
Although CZ dominates the precision rimfire market, several manufacturers produce competitive alternatives that match or exceed the 455 Thumbhole’s capabilities.
You’ll find the Ruger 77/17 and Browning T-Bolt offering superior 9-10 round capacities versus CZ’s 5-round limitation.
The Savage Arms A17 delivers comparable 17 HMR performance, while the Mossberg Blaze 47 provides semi-automatic functionality with thumbhole ergonomics.
Maintenance
Regardless of which precision rimfire platform you select, proper maintenance protocols determine long-term accuracy retention and mechanical reliability.
You’ll need thorough bore cleaning after each session, removing powder residue and fouling. Regular action disassembly enables proper lubrication of bolt components.
Use a 4mm Allen wrench for barrel removal. Store in controlled environments to prevent corrosion and preserve finish integrity.
History
Nine years marked the production span of Česká zbrojovka’s CZ 455 Thumbhole Rifle, which debuted in 2007 as the designated successor to their acclaimed CZ 452 rimfire platform.
You’ll find this discontinued model featured laminate thumbhole stock construction, integral 1/2 dovetail scope mounting, and standardized 5-shot single-column polymer magazine feeding.
Production ceased in 2016 when CZ transitioned to their 457 series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CZ 455 Discontinued?
Yes, you’ll find the CZ 455 series discontinued since 2016 when CZ-USA ceased reliable production. The model availability shifted to the upgraded CZ 457 platform, which offers enhanced customization options and improved manufacturing tolerances.
You’re looking at sourcing discontinued CZ 455 variants through secondary markets only. The CZ 457 series maintains the same action reliability while providing superior barrel threading, improved trigger mechanisms, and expanded aftermarket compatibility for precision shooting applications.
Is the CZ 455 a Good Gun?
You’ll find the CZ 455 delivers exceptional reliable performance through its twin extractor system and cold hammer-forged barrel construction. The rifle’s ergonomic design, particularly the thumbhole stock configuration, enhances shooting stability and target acquisition.
With affordable pricing relative to its sub-MOA accuracy potential and adjustable 2-3 pound trigger mechanism, you’re getting premium precision capabilities. The detachable box magazine system ensures consistent feeding cycles, making it an excellent choice for competitive target shooting applications.
What Is the Difference Between CZ 455 and CZ 457?
You’d think manufacturers would leave perfection alone, but CZ couldn’t resist “improving” their 455 with the 457. You’ll get enhanced trigger pull quality with a refined two-stage mechanism, superior barrel accuracy potential through updated manufacturing tolerances, and improved magazine compatibility across caliber variants.
The 457’s receiver redesign delivers smoother bolt cycling and reduced lock time. While the 455 performs admirably, the 457’s precision engineering upgrades offer measurable performance gains for discerning shooters.
Is the CZ 455 American Accurate?
Yes, you’ll find the CZ 455 American delivers exceptional accuracy with its 2.9-pound trigger pull and cold hammer-forged barrel achieving consistent 1/2-inch groups at 50 yards. The stock ergonomics provide excellent stability for precision shooting, while the muzzle-heavy balance enhances target acquisition.
You’ve got solid chambering options in .22 LR with reliable feeding from the detachable magazine. The single-stage trigger system and machined steel action ensure repeatable shot placement for competitive accuracy standards.
Conclusion
You’ll find the CZ 455’s sub-MOA accuracy capability at 100 yards makes it exceptional among entry-level precision rifles. With its match-grade barrel and ergonomic thumbhole stock, you’re getting professional-grade performance without the premium price tag. The rifle’s interchangeable barrel system means you can swap calibers in minutes, maximizing your investment. Whether you’re targeting varmints or competing in precision matches, the CZ 455 thumbhole delivers consistent, repeatable accuracy that’ll exceed your expectations every time.
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