You’ll find the CZ 455 American was a precision rimfire rifle featuring a machined billet receiver, cold hammer-forged 20.5″ barrel, and interchangeable barrel system for .22 LR, .17 HMR, and .22 WMR chamberings. It delivered 0.55-1.2″ groups at 50 yards with its adjustable 2.5-3.5 pound trigger and 5-round detachable magazine. Discontinued in 2018 and replaced by the CZ 457 American, this 5.85-pound rifle consolidated proven 452 series components into a unified platform that offers comprehensive technical insights.
Key Takeaways
- The CZ 455 American was discontinued in 2018 and replaced by the CZ 457 American rifle.
- Features interchangeable barrels allowing users to switch between .22 LR, .17 HMR, and .22 WMR calibers.
- Delivers excellent accuracy with 0.55-1.2 inch groups at 50 yards and adjustable 2.5-3.5 pound trigger.
- Built with machined billet receiver, cold hammer-forged barrel, and Turkish walnut stock with checkered grip.
- Original pricing ranged from $299 for synthetic models to $502 for combo packages with multiple barrels.
Description
Although discontinued in 2018 when CZ replaced it with the 457 American, the CZ 455 American represents the culmination of CZ’s bolt-action rimfire evolution.
You’ll find it consolidates the 452 series’ proven components—adjustable trigger, hammer-forged barrel, and billet-machined receiver—into a unified platform featuring interchangeable barrels.
The CZ 455 American Combo offers .22LR and .17 HMR configurations.
Price Range
The CZ 455 American’s pricing structure reflects its modular design philosophy, spanning from $299 for the entry-level American Synthetic in .22 LR to $502 for the premium American Combo Brown featuring dual .22 LR and .17 HMR barrel configurations. Each CZ 455 rifle incorporates a machined receiver with scope mounting provisions, ensuring consistent bolt action performance across the entire price range.
| Configuration | Price |
|---|---|
| American Synthetic .22 LR | $299 |
| Training Brown .22 LR | $374 |
| American Brown .17 HMR/.22 WMR | $396 |
| American Stainless Synthetic .22 LR | $419 |
| American Combo Brown .22 LR/.17 HMR | $502 |
Specifications
You’ll find the CZ 455 American’s specifications reflect its precision-engineered design for reliable performance. The rifle’s technical details showcase its versatility across multiple rimfire calibers with consistent build quality. These specifications directly impact your shooting experience and determine the rifle’s suitability for your intended applications.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.85 pounds |
| Barrel Length | 20.5 inches (cold hammer-forged) |
| Chambering | .22 LR, .17 HMR, .22 WMR |
Weight
Weighing precisely 5.85 pounds, CZ’s 455 American achieves an optimal balance between durability and portability through its cold hammer forged 20.5-inch barrel construction. You’ll find this represents a significant weight reduction from the previous CZ 452 model.
The lightweight design enhances your shooting experience whether you’re hunting or engaging in precision target shooting applications.
Barrel Length
Measuring 20.5 inches in length, the CZ 455 American’s cold hammer-forged barrel delivers optimal performance across all rimfire calibers this rifle chambers. This length provides an excellent balance between accuracy and maneuverability for field use.
The barrel channel accommodates the full barrel profile, ensuring proper bedding. You’ll achieve maximum velocity potential in .17 HMR and .22 WMR configurations.
Material Made Out Of
The CZ 455 American’s construction centers on a machined billet receiver with a satin finish that provides durability and corrosion resistance. You’ll find the cold hammer forged barrel features blued steel construction, while the bolt incorporates dual extractors for reliable extraction.
This new CZ design includes a Turkish walnut stock with checkered pistol grip. The HMR barrel variant represents a recent addition to the platform’s material specifications.
Chambered In
Two primary chamberings define the CZ 455 American’s rimfire capabilities: .17 HMR and .22 WMR.
You’ll find each caliber optimized with specific barrel configurations—the .17 HMR features a 1:9 inch twist rate while the .22 WMR utilizes a 1:16 inch twist.
Both versions maintain identical 20.5-inch cold hammer forged barrels with small lock nut retention systems ensuring consistent accuracy and reliable performance.
Capacity
Beyond barrel specifications, magazine capacity plays a critical role in the CZ 455 American’s field performance. You’ll receive a 5-round detachable magazine supplied with your rifle, regardless of whether you select the .22 LR or .17 HMR chambering.
This standardized capacity ensures consistent feeding reliability across both calibers while maintaining the rifle’s streamlined profile for hunting applications.
Trigger Pull
While magazine capacity affects your shooting frequency, trigger performance directly impacts shot precision and overall firing experience.
The CZ 455 American features an adjustable trigger pull ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 pounds, factory-set at 3.25 pounds. You’ll find the trigger pull crisp and clean, with well-formed dimensions accommodating gloved fingers, contributing significantly to the rifle’s renowned accuracy.
Safety?
The CZ 455 American incorporates a reverse-style two-position safety mechanism that blocks both the firing pin and bolt when engaged in the forward position.
The safety is mounted behind the trigger guard for quick access during operation. This design prevents accidental discharge while maintaining bolt function control.
You’ll find the safety operates opposite to traditional hunting rifle configurations.
Action
CZ 455 American’s bolt-action system centers on a precision-machined receiver paired with a cold hammer-forged barrel for enhanced accuracy and durability.
You’ll find dual extractors on the bolt with the firing pin positioned at 12 o’clock. The flattened bolt handle stem ensures scope clearance, while this configuration delivers consistent accuracy at 50 yards for reliable performance.
Optic Ready?
How does the CZ 455 American accommodate optics installation? The rifle features an integrated 11mm dovetail machined directly into the receiver, eliminating the need for separate mounting bases.
This dovetail system is supplied with the rifle and provides a secure, low-profile platform for scope rings. You’ll find the mounting interface reliable and straightforward for various optic configurations.
Picatinny Rail?
Unlike many modern tactical rifles, this rifle forgoes a Picatinny rail system in favor of an integrated 11mm dovetail machined directly into the receiver. You’ll find this dovetail accepts standard scope mounts and accessories directly without additional hardware.
The streamlined design maintains clean receiver lines while providing secure optic attachment. Aftermarket alternatives include dovetail-to-Picatinny adapters for enhanced accessory compatibility.
Review
You’ll find the CZ 455 American delivers exceptional accuracy and build quality that reviewers consistently praise as a “winner” in the rimfire category. The rifle’s reliability stems from its hammer-forged barrel and billet-machined receiver, though you may encounter occasional magazine feeding issues that represent the primary weakness.
Target shooters, small game hunters, and precision rimfire competitors most commonly choose this platform for its adjustable trigger system and inherent mechanical precision.
Pros
The CZ 455 American delivers exceptional build quality that’s immediately apparent when you examine the rifle’s construction. The excellent craftsmanship shows through flawless inletting and precise action-to-stock fit.
| Feature | Performance |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | 0.55-1.2″ groups at 50 yards |
| Trigger | Adjustable 2.5-3.5 pounds |
| Extractors | Dual system for reliability |
You’ll appreciate the smooth bolt operation and “one hole” capability at 25 yards.
Cons
Despite its impressive performance credentials, several limitations become apparent during extended use of the CZ 455 American. You’ll encounter feeding issues with certain ammunition types, creating an unreliable design under field conditions. The stock’s finish shows premature wear, while the trigger mechanism requires frequent adjustment for consistent performance.
| Limitation | Impact |
|---|---|
| Feed reliability | Inconsistent cycling |
| Stock durability | Surface deterioration |
| Trigger stability | Variable pull weight |
| Magazine retention | Occasional loosening |
| Scope mounting | Limited rail options |
Reliability
While feeding inconsistencies with certain magazines represent the most commonly reported reliability concern, the CZ 455 American maintains solid field performance across diverse shooting conditions.
You’ll find the rifle’s mechanical systems operate consistently during extended shooting sessions. Magazine reliability issues appear isolated rather than systemic, with most users experiencing dependable cycling and extraction throughout normal hunting and target shooting applications.
Most Commonly Used By
Small game hunters represent the CZ 455 American’s primary user base, drawn to its exceptional accuracy and interchangeable barrel system across .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR calibers.
Rimfire target shooters and varmint control specialists also favor this platform. You’ll find recreational hunters and shooters appreciating its hammer-forged barrel, precision-machined receiver, and classic walnut stock design for diverse applications.
Similar Models
When considering alternatives to the CZ 455 American, you’ll find several configurations within the CZ 455 family that share the same reliable action and interchangeable barrel system.
Models comparison reveals the CZ 455 Training Rifles ($316-$428) offer 16.5-24.875″ barrels, while the CZ 455 Lux and FS variants ($387-$488) feature 20.5″ barrels in matching calibers.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
Beyond the CZ 455 family, several manufacturers produce rimfire rifles that compete directly with the American model’s accuracy and features.
You’ll find the Tikka T1x MTR offers comparable European precision in .22 LR and .17 HMR chamberings. The Ruger American Rimfire provides excellent reliability and versatility across multiple calibers, while Savage’s B.MAG delivers exceptional performance in .17 WSM.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance forms the backbone of your CZ 455 American’s long-term performance and accuracy retention. You’ll find disassembly straightforward, with the barrel easily removable for thorough cleaning.
Lubricate the action and moving parts regularly to ensure smooth operation. Check magazine condition and replace worn components for consistent feeding.
Store properly, avoiding extreme temperatures and impacts.
History
Understanding your rifle’s technical heritage provides valuable context for its engineering excellence. The CZ 455 American’s development timeline began in 2018 when CZ-USA introduced this platform to replace the discontinued CZ 452 series.
You’ll find the 455 consolidates rimfire operations into a single interchangeable barrel system, maintaining the proven accuracy standards while offering enhanced versatility across multiple calibers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CZ 455 Discontinued?
Yes, you’ll find the CZ 455 isn’t in current production anymore. CZ discontinued this bolt-action rimfire platform in 2018, replacing it with the CZ 457 series.
You can’t purchase new 455 models from manufacturers today, though you’ll still locate used examples through dealers and private sales. The 455’s interchangeable barrel system and precision-machined receiver made it popular before discontinuation.
You’re now directed toward the CZ 457 for similar performance characteristics and technical specifications.
Is the CZ 455 a Good Gun?
You’ll find the CZ 455 delivers exceptional performance through its adjustable trigger mechanism, which enhances shooting precision significantly. The rifle’s hammer-forged barrel and billet-machined receiver provide outstanding accuracy, with documented sub-MOA groups at 50 yards.
You’re getting excellent craftsmanship with superior fit and finish quality. The trigger performance stands out as particularly responsive and crisp. While you might encounter occasional magazine feeding issues, the rifle’s overall reliability, versatility across multiple calibers, and consistent accuracy make it highly recommended.
Is the CZ 455 American Accurate?
Like a surgeon’s scalpel cutting with unwavering precision, you’ll find this rifle delivers exceptional accuracy consistently. You’ll achieve 0.55 to 1.2-inch groups at 50 yards with various .22 LR loads, while the trigger consistency ensures repeatable shot placement.
You’ll experience sub-MOA performance when you select appropriate ammunition weights. The rifle’s inherent mechanical precision, combined with its refined barrel harmonics, means you’ll consistently punch tight groups whether you’re hunting small game or target shooting.
What Is the Difference Between CZ 455 and CZ 457?
You’ll find comparable performance between the CZ 455 and 457, but the 457 offers significant improvements.
The 457 features a consolidated receiver platform with interchangeable barrels, allowing you to switch calibers and configurations easily. While the 455 retained the 452’s accuracy features like adjustable triggers and hammer-forged barrels, the 457 modernizes the system.
You can now change from .22LR to .17 HMR without purchasing separate rifles, making the 457 more versatile.
Conclusion
You’ll find it ironic that the CZ 455 American’s greatest strength—its meticulous Czech engineering and sub-MOA accuracy potential—becomes its weakness in today’s market. While you’re getting match-grade precision at a budget price point, you’re also accepting a platform that’s been discontinued. The rifle’s 11mm dovetail rail, adjustable trigger mechanism, and interchangeable barrel system deliver exceptional performance, yet you can’t easily source replacement parts or accessories anymore.
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