The CZ 455 is your precision-engineered rimfire platform featuring interchangeable barrels between .22LR and .17 HMR calibers. You’ll get a cold hammer-forged barrel, adjustable trigger with 3.5-pound pull, and 2-position safety system. The rifle’s 5.85-pound balanced weight pairs with a Turkish walnut stock and billet-machined receiver, delivering consistent accuracy through its 20.5-inch barrel. Various configurations from $299-$502 let you customize your setup. There’s much more to understand about this discontinued but sought-after platform.
Key Takeaways
- The CZ 455 is a bolt-action rimfire rifle introduced in 2010 as a replacement for the CZ 452, featuring interchangeable barrels between .22LR and .17 HMR.
- Cold hammer-forged barrel and precision-engineered action deliver consistent accuracy, with an adjustable trigger mechanism and two-position safety system.
- Available in multiple configurations including American Synthetic, Lux, FS, and American Combo, with prices ranging from $299 to $502.
- Features a 5-round detachable magazine, Turkish walnut stock options, and an 11mm dovetail rail for mounting optics.
- The rifle weighs 5.85 pounds with standard barrel configuration and was discontinued in 2018 in favor of the CZ 457 model.
Description
The CZ 455 represented a significant evolution in CZ’s rimfire lineup when it debuted in 2010 as a replacement for the long-running 452 series. You’ll find this new platform features interchangeable barrels across different calibers, including .22LR and .17 HMR options.
The CZ 455 Varmint configuration maintains the rifle’s core features: a cold hammer forged barrel, adjustable trigger, two-position safety, and a 5-round detachable magazine.
Price Range
Market pricing for CZ 455 rifles spans a broad spectrum to accommodate different shooter budgets and requirements. You’ll find the base CZ 455 American Synthetic with its hammer-forged steel barrels starting at $299, while premium models featuring Turkish walnut stocks and bull barrels command higher prices up to $500.
| Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 455 American Synthetic | Base model, synthetic stock | $299 |
| 455 Lux | Walnut stock, improved accuracy | $387-432 |
| 455 FS | Full-stock configuration | $432-488 |
| 455 American Combo | Additional barrel included | $502 |
| Accessories | Magazines, barrel adapters | $19-46 |
Specifications
The CZ 455’s well-balanced 5.85-pound weight makes it a practical choice for both field and range use. You’ll find the 20.5-inch cold hammer forged barrel delivers consistent accuracy across multiple caliber options, including .22LR, .17 HMR, and .22 WMR. The rifle’s modular design features a steel receiver, Turkish walnut stock, and accepts 5-round detachable magazines.
| Specification | Standard Model | American Model |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 5.85 lbs | 5.85 lbs |
| Barrel Length | 20.5″ | 20.5″ |
| Action | Bolt | Bolt |
| Material | Steel/Walnut | Steel/Walnut |
| Magazine | 5-round | 5-round |
Weight
Varying significantly across models, CZ 455’s weight ranges from 5.85 lbs in the American variant to 7.1 lbs in the Varmint configuration.
You’ll find the Scout model, with its shortened 16-inch barrel, comes in lighter than the American, while the Synthetic’s composite stock reduces overall mass.
The Stainless variant carries marginally more weight due to its corrosion-resistant stainless steel components.
Barrel Length
Engineered for diverse shooting applications, CZ 455’s barrel length configurations span from the compact 16.5-inch Scout to the extended 24.8-inch Long model.
You’ll find barrel suitability optimized across several variants, with the American model featuring a 20.5-inch sporter-contour design. The Varmint, Thumbhole Varmint, and Tacticool versions all utilize a heavy-profile 20.5-inch barrel, enhancing accuracy through increased rigidity and harmonics control.
Material Made Out Of
Built around a robust billet machined receiver, CZ 455’s construction showcases precision manufacturing throughout its core components. You’ll find premium material composition in its cold hammer forged barrel, integrated with an 11mm dovetail rail.
The Turkish walnut stock, crafted in American-style configuration, complements the rifle’s metal components. The polymer magazines provide durability while keeping weight minimal.
Chambered In
The CZ 455’s versatility shines through its dual caliber options of .22 LR and .17 HMR, each featuring distinct ballistic characteristics. You’ll find the .22 LR variant engineered with a 1:16 inch twist rate for optimal stability, while the .17 HMR model utilizes a faster 1:9 inch twist rate.
Both caliber options maintain identical 20.5-inch cold hammer-forged barrels and function through 5-round detachable magazines.
Capacity
Standard magazine configurations for the CZ 455 offer streamlined 5-round detachable magazines across all models, complementing both .22 LR and .17 HMR chamberings.
For enhanced capacity requirements, aftermarket 10-round polymer magazines are available, providing additional flexibility while maintaining the rifle’s reliable feeding system and operational efficiency.
You’ll find this magazine capacity consistent in both the American and Varmint variants.
Trigger Pull
Featuring precision engineering, the CZ 455’s trigger mechanism comes factory-set at approximately 1600 grams (3.5 pounds) with built-in adjustability for customization.
You’ll need specialized tools to perform trigger adjustment, which requires disassembling the action. Once modified, the adjustable trigger mechanism delivers a crisp, clean break that enhances your shooting accuracy. You can reduce the pull weight below factory settings to match your preferences.
Safety?
Built into every CZ 455 rifle, a precision-engineered two-position safety mechanism blocks both trigger and sear engagement while allowing safe transport with a closed action.
You’ll find the disengagement technique intuitive, as the safety smoothly operates under your thumb while maintaining proper grip position. A visible red indicator dot confirms “fire” status, ensuring you’re always aware of the rifle’s readiness condition.
Action
Through precise engineering, the CZ 455’s action incorporates a hammer-forged, hand-lapped steel barrel secured to the receiver via twin set-screws.
You’ll find the interchangeable action system allows seamless transitions between different stock configurations without modifications. The receiver features an 11mm dovetail rail for optics mounting, while the bolt mechanism offers 43mm of travel with an 18mm knob on a 50mm extension.
Optic Ready?
The CZ 455’s integrated 11mm dovetail rail provides a direct mounting platform for optics atop the receiver, complementing the rifle’s mechanical precision.
You’ll find the rifle is optic ready right out of the box, allowing you to mount your preferred telescopic sights without additional base modifications. This standardized mounting solution integrates seamlessly with the 455’s cold hammer-forged barrel and adjustable trigger system, ensuring optimal sight alignment for precision shooting.
Picatinny Rail?
While the CZ 455 comes standard with an 11mm dovetail machined into its receiver, you’ll find that Picatinny rail adaptation is readily achievable through aftermarket mounting solutions.
The integrated dovetail provides a sturdy foundation for various mounting options, including Picatinny-style rail adapters. You can easily enhance your rifle’s versatility by converting the factory 11mm dovetail to accommodate modern Picatinny-compatible optics and accessories.
Review
The CZ 455’s cold hammer-forged barrel and billet-machined receiver deliver exceptional accuracy and durability you’ll appreciate, while its adjustable trigger mechanism enhances your shooting precision.
You’ll find the 5-round detachable magazine’s capacity limiting for high-volume shooting, but the rifle’s interchangeable barrel system between .22LR, .17 HMR, and .22 WMR calibers offers versatility that’s particularly valuable for small game hunters and target shooters.
The CZ 455’s reliability and accuracy make it a preferred choice among rimfire enthusiasts and competitive shooters, though you’ll need to factor in that CZ discontinued this model in 2018 in favor of the CZ 457.
Pros
Based on innovative design improvements over its predecessor, CZ’s 455 rifle delivers exceptional versatility through its interchangeable barrel system. You’ll benefit from enhanced accuracy performance with the cold hammer forged barrels and adjustable trigger system.
| Feature | Benefit | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Interchangeable Barrels | Multi-caliber flexibility | .17 HMR & .22 WMR options |
| Advanced Manufacturing | Improved precision | Enhanced accuracy |
| Common Platform | Simplified maintenance | Streamlined operation |
| Combo Package | Cost-effective solution | Two calibers, one receiver |
Cons
Despite its impressive features, several notable drawbacks warrant consideration before investing in a CZ 455. You’ll encounter a heavy trigger pull of 1600g with slight creep, potentially affecting precision. The 11mm dovetail rail limits optics compatibility, while magazine reliability issues may require specific loading techniques. At 7.1 lbs, the Varmint model can induce fatigue during extended sessions.
| Limitation | Impact | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 1600g Trigger | Accuracy degradation | Gunsmith tune-up |
| 11mm Dovetail | Limited optics options | Rail adapter required |
| Magazine Feed | Inconsistent cycling | Proper load technique |
| Heavy Weight | User fatigue | Rest support needed |
Reliability
Field testing and rigorous evaluations confirm the CZ 455’s exceptional reliability across diverse shooting conditions. You’ll find the precision-engineered bolt action cycles seamlessly, while the hammer-forged barrel maintains consistent performance.
User experience validates the rifle’s ability to handle various rimfire ammunition without malfunction. The two-position safety and adjustable trigger enhance operational confidence, while minimal maintenance requirements ensure long-term dependability.
Most Commonly Used By
The CZ 455’s proven reliability has attracted a diverse range of shooters across multiple disciplines. You’ll find this rifle in the hands of rimfire enthusiasts and target shooters who value its precision-adjustable trigger and multi-caliber versatility.
Market interest spans from varmint hunters utilizing the heavy barrel variant to law enforcement trainers. New shooters and collectors particularly appreciate its heritage design and forgiving operation.
Similar Models
Several variants and successors complement the CZ 455 rifle family, including specialized left-hand configurations and precision training platforms. You’ll find the CZ 457 Varmint Left-Hand for southpaw shooters, while the 457 Varmint Precision Trainer series features Manners carbon fiber stocks.
Discontinued models include the 455 Thumbhole Fluted, Tacticool, and SST variants. The CZ 512 Carbine offers a semi-automatic option in .22 WMR.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
Popular alternatives to the CZ 455 include Ruger’s American Rimfire series, which delivers comparable accuracy at a lower price point, and Savage’s A17 semi-automatic platform optimized for .17 HMR performance.
You’ll find additional availability options in the Thompson Center Compass Varmint, Mossberg Patriot Predator, and Bergara B-14 HMR platforms, each offering precision engineering in both .22 LR and .17 HMR configurations for dedicated rimfire shooting.
Maintenance
Maintaining consistent performance of your CZ 455 requires systematic cleaning and preventive care after each range session.
You’ll need to clean the bore thoroughly with quality solvent and a brush to remove carbon deposits. Disassemble the bolt and action for proper lubrication with lightweight gun oil.
During maintenance, inspect critical components like the firing pin and extractor for wear. Store your rifle in a dry environment to prevent corrosion.
History
The CZ 455’s roots trace back to 1947 when Česká zbrojovka introduced the Model 1 (ZKM-451) as their premier .22-caliber rimfire training rifle.
The design evolved into the Model 2 (ZKM 452) in 1954, which served as the foundation for the next five decades. In 2010, manufacturing advancements led to the CZ 455’s development, featuring enhanced accuracy, smoother operation, and an innovative interchangeable barrel system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CZ 455 Discontinued?
Yes, the production status of the CZ 455 was discontinued in 2018. You’ll find it’s been replaced by the CZ 457 American model, which consolidated CZ’s rimfire receiver designs into a unified platform.
While you can’t get a new CZ 455 directly from the manufacturer anymore, you’ll still find them on the secondary market. The 457 series carries forward the same precision engineering and interchangeable barrel system you’d expect from CZ.
What Is the Difference Between CZ 455 and 457?
While you might miss the CZ 455, you’ll find the 457 offers significant upgrades. The 457’s redesigned action features a shorter bolt throw, enhanced trigger mechanism with less creep, and improved safety. You’ll notice better accuracy due to its tighter tolerances and refined manufacturing.
The 457 also gives you more versatility with its fully interchangeable barrel system and expanded stock options. The trigger enhancements alone make it a worthwhile successor.
Is the CZ 455 Trigger Adjustable?
Yes, you’ll find that the CZ 455’s trigger offers comprehensive customization options. You can adjust the trigger pull weight using the adjustment screw located in the trigger mechanism housing. The trigger’s versatility allows you to fine-tune it to match your shooting preferences, with the ability to modify both weight and break point.
You can achieve a crisp, clean break by carefully adjusting the mechanism to your desired specifications.
How Accurate Is the CZ 457 22 LR?
You’ll find excellent accuracy with the CZ 457 22 LR, as it’s capable of delivering sub-MOA performance when using match-grade ammunition. You can expect consistent 5-shot groups under 0.50 inches at 50 yards.
The rifle’s precision is enhanced by its cold-hammer forged barrel, adjustable trigger mechanism, and CNC-machined action. You’ll maintain zero reliability, and the interchangeable barrel system lets you optimize accuracy for your specific shooting requirements.
Conclusion
You’ll find the CZ 455 lives up to the old saying “accuracy is everything.” At this price point, you’re getting a precision-engineered rimfire that delivers sub-MOA groups with match-grade ammunition. The interchangeable barrel system lets you switch between .22 LR, .17 HMR, and .22 WMR calibers. With proper maintenance of the cold-hammer-forged barrel and regular lubrication of the adjustable trigger mechanism, you’ll have a reliable performer for decades.
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