29-Jun-2026
The Czech firearms manufacturer CZ, Česká Zbrojovka, has a long and distinguished history of producing accurate, well-engineered rifles at prices that make sense for working shooters. In the rimfire world, the CZ 455 and its successor, the CZ 457 have carved out a reputation as among the most accurate and value-laden bolt-action rimfires available. For small game hunters, pest controllers, target shooters, and rimfire enthusiasts alike, they represent a compelling proposition that deserves serious examination.
The CZ 455: The interchangeable classic
The CZ 455 made a significant impact when it launched because of one standout feature: interchangeable barrel and stock systems. A single 455 receiver could accept multiple barrel and stock combinations, allowing shooters to switch between .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR with a barrel swap rather than a complete rifle purchase. For dedicated rimfire shooters who wanted versatility without buying multiple complete guns, the 455 was an obvious choice.
Beyond the interchangeability, the 455 was simply an accurate and well-made rifle. The cold-hammer-forged barrels produced tight groups at 50 metres as a matter of course, and the adjustable trigger, while not a match-grade unit, was excellent value and responded well to a light cleaning and adjustment. Available in a wide range of stock configurations from the plain Trainer to the stylish Varmint and American variants, the 455 offered something for every shooter.
The CZ 457: Refined and improved
The CZ 457 replaced the 455 in production and improved on it in almost every meaningful way. The trigger system was completely redesigned, producing a crisper, more consistent break that many shooters consider genuinely match-quality out of the box. The receiver was strengthened and refined, the ejector system improved, and the overall manufacturing quality raised to meet the expectations of a more demanding modern market.
The 457 retained the barrel-swapping capability that made the 455 popular, ensuring that existing owners could transition accessories and barrels between platforms. New stock options expanded the lineup further, including dedicated target variants with adjustable cheekpieces and broader forends that appeal to benchrest and precision rimfire shooters.
Accuracy from a quality 457 with good ammunition is genuinely impressive. Sub-MOA groups at 50 metres are achievable without difficulty, and with premium match ammunition, the CZ 457 Rifle can challenge dedicated target rifles costing several times its price.
Which should you choose?
The CZ 455 is no longer in production but remains widely available on the used market at attractive prices. For shooters on tighter budgets who want to experience CZ quality, a used 455 in good condition represents excellent value. For new purchases, the 457 is the clear choice; its improved trigger and refined action make it a better rifle in every measurable sense.
Final verdict
CZ has built the 455 and 457 into benchmarks of the rimfire market. They are accurate, well-made, versatile, and priced fairly. Whether you are hunting rabbits at dawn, managing vermin on farmland, or pushing the limits of rimfire precision at a target range, either rifle will serve you exceptionally well.
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