The CZ 457 American: Precision, Performance, and Heirloom Quality in .17 HMR

Are you searching for a rimfire rifle that combines classic aesthetics with modern precision and unwavering reliability? Do you need a firearm capable of surgical accuracy for small game hunting, pest control, or competitive target shooting? For discerning shooters and hunters who demand excellence, the CZ 457 American chambered in the lightning-fast .17 HMR caliber stands out as a definitive choice. This rifle, renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and superior performance, is engineered to deliver exceptional results whether you're stalking varmints in the field or punching tight groups at the shooting range.

Unveiling the CZ 457 American: A Rifle Built for Accuracy

The CZ 457 American represents the pinnacle of CZ-USA's commitment to quality rimfire rifles. It's not just a tool; it's an investment in precision. This specific model, identified by UPC 806703023120, embodies the ideal blend of a traditional American-style stock and advanced internal mechanics, making it a favorite among enthusiasts.

What makes the CZ 457 American a top contender for your next rimfire rifle? Let’s explore its core attributes:

• Exceptional Caliber: The .17 HMR Advantage: Chambered in .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire, this rifle taps into one of the most exciting and capable rimfire cartridges available today. The .17 HMR is celebrated for its incredibly flat trajectory, high velocity (often exceeding 2,500 feet per second with lightweight 17-grain bullets), and impressive accuracy at distances far beyond what traditional .22 LR cartridges can achieve. For small game like squirrels, rabbits, or prairie dogs, the .17 HMR delivers devastating terminal performance with minimal pelt damage, making it an ethical and effective hunting round. Its high velocity also means less wind drift and bullet drop, simplifying shot placement at varying ranges.
• Precision Barrel: Cold Hammer Forged Excellence: At the heart of the CZ 457 American's accuracy is its 24.80-inch cold hammer-forged barrel. This manufacturing process, a hallmark of CZ firearms, creates an exceptionally uniform and stress-relieved barrel bore, which translates directly into superior accuracy and extended barrel life. The added length of this barrel is specifically chosen to maximize the ballistic potential of the .17 HMR cartridge, ensuring optimal velocity and stability for precise long-range shots. For shooters aiming to consistently hit small targets or humanely dispatch small game at extended distances, a high-quality barrel is paramount, and CZ delivers.
• Classic Aesthetics and Ergonomics: Turkish Walnut Stock: The rifle features a beautiful Turkish Walnut fixed American-style stock. Turkish Walnut is highly prized for its rich grain patterns, durability, and classic appearance, giving the CZ 457 American a timeless elegance. Beyond its visual appeal, the American-style stock is designed for ergonomic comfort and stable shooting. Its straight comb and slender forend provide a comfortable and natural point of aim, whether you're shooting from a bench rest or off-hand in the field. The blued finish on the metal components complements the warmth of the wood, creating a rifle that is as pleasing to the eye as it is effective in performance. This design ensures that the rifle feels balanced and intuitive in the shooter's hands, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions and improving consistency.
• Refined Bolt-Action System: The CZ 457 series boasts a remarkably smooth and reliable bolt-action. Key improvements over previous generations include a shorter 60-degree bolt throw. This design enhancement provides significantly more clearance between the bolt handle and mounted optics, allowing for lower scope mounting and preventing interference during rapid cycling. The positive feeding and extraction ensure dependable operation, whether you're practicing at the range or need a quick follow-up shot in the field.
• Adjustable Trigger System: Precision shooting demands a crisp, consistent trigger, and the CZ 457 American delivers with its user-adjustable trigger mechanism. This feature allows shooters to customize the pull weight, creep, and overtravel to their exact preference. A finely tuned trigger contributes significantly to accuracy by minimizing shooter-induced movement at the moment of firing, making it easier to achieve tight groups and consistent shot placement. For competitive shooters or those who simply desire the utmost control over their shot, this adjustability is invaluable.
• Enhanced Safety and Features: Departing from previous CZ rimfire models, the 457 series incorporates a true American-style push-to-fire safety located on the receiver, offering intuitive and immediate engagement or disengagement. This forward-thinking design ensures safety is both accessible and clear. The rifle also features an easily removable 5-round detachable box magazine, facilitating quick reloads and safe storage. The receiver is milled with a 11mm dovetail for easy scope mounting, allowing you to readily equip your preferred optics to maximize the rifle's long-range potential.

Who Will Benefit Most from the CZ 457 American in .17 HMR?

This rifle is an outstanding choice for a diverse range of users, solving several common problems and fulfilling various shooting needs:

1. The Dedicated Small Game and Varmint Hunter:
   • Problem Solved: Needing a precise, flat-shooting rifle for challenging small game like squirrels, rabbits, or elusive varmints such as prairie dogs, groundhogs, or even coyotes at closer ranges.
   • How it helps: The .17 HMR’s velocity and accuracy minimize projectile drop over distance, making ethical long-range shots on small targets more attainable. Its relatively low report compared to centerfire cartridges can be an advantage in certain hunting scenarios, and the caliber's effectiveness often results in clean, humane kills. The rifle's excellent balance and comfortable stock make it easy to carry and maneuver in the field.
2. The Precision Target Shooter and Marksmanship Enthusiast:
   • Problem Solved: Desiring a highly accurate yet affordable-to-shoot rifle for developing or honing marksmanship skills without the expense or recoil of centerfire cartridges.
   • How it helps: The CZ 457 American provides match-grade accuracy right out of the box, allowing shooters to focus on technique. The adjustable trigger and stable shooting platform contribute to consistent performance on paper targets. With relatively inexpensive .17 HMR ammunition, you can enjoy extended range sessions, perfecting your fundamentals and pushing your accuracy limits. It’s an ideal rifle for rimfire benchrest competitions or simply for the satisfaction of tight groups.
3. The Entry-Level or Developing Shooter:
   • Problem Solved: Seeking a forgiving, low-recoil rifle that provides a premium shooting experience and fosters confidence.
   • How it helps: The minimal recoil of the .17 HMR makes the CZ 457 American incredibly comfortable to shoot, even for beginners or those sensitive to recoil. This comfort allows new shooters to concentrate on aiming and trigger control without anticipating recoil, accelerating their learning curve. Its inherent accuracy also provides immediate positive feedback, encouraging continued participation in shooting sports.
4. The Firearms Collector Appreciating Craftsmanship:
   • Problem Solved: Looking for a rifle that exemplifies classic design, quality materials, and meticulous assembly, destined to be a cherished part of a collection.
   • How it helps: The Turkish Walnut stock, blued finish, and the renowned CZ engineering combine to create a firearm that is not only functional but also aesthetically appealing. It's a rifle that looks as good as it shoots, embodying a legacy of European gun-making tradition.

The Evolution of Excellence: From CZ 455 to CZ 457

The CZ 457 series builds upon the highly successful foundation of the CZ 455, incorporating significant enhancements based on user feedback and technological advancements. Key improvements found in the CZ 457 American include:

• Improved Trigger System: As mentioned, the 457's trigger is user-adjustable for pull weight, creep, and overtravel, offering a level of customization rarely found in factory rimfire rifles. This critical upgrade allows for a truly personalized shooting experience, directly impacting precision.
• 60-Degree Bolt Throw: The reduced bolt throw is a game-changer for optic mounting. It allows scopes to be mounted lower and closer to the bore, enhancing natural aiming and eliminating interference with the bolt handle, especially with larger objective lenses.
• American-Style Safety: The new push-to-fire safety is more intuitive for American shooters and contributes to faster, more confident handling in various scenarios.
• Integrated Dovetail: The receiver is now milled with an 11mm dovetail, a robust and reliable platform for direct scope ring attachment, simplifying scope mounting and ensuring stability.
• Enhanced Bedding: The 457 series features improved action bedding, which contributes to greater consistency and accuracy by ensuring a more stable interface between the action and the stock.

These thoughtful improvements elevate the CZ 457 American beyond its predecessors, cementing its status as a modern classic designed for optimal performance.

Maximizing Your CZ 457 American: Essential Accessories and Considerations

To fully unlock the potential of your CZ 457 American, consider these additions:

• Quality Optics: Given the rifle's precision capabilities and the .17 HMR's flat trajectory, a good quality scope is indispensable. Look for scopes with clear glass, appropriate magnification for your intended use (e.g., 3-9x, 4-16x), and a reliable reticle. A scope designed for rimfire use or with parallax adjustment down to closer ranges will enhance accuracy.
• Scope Rings and Mounts: Ensure you use sturdy, high-quality scope rings that fit the 11mm dovetail on the CZ 457's receiver. Proper mounting is crucial for maintaining zero and maximizing accuracy.
• Ammunition Variety: Experiment with different brands and bullet weights of .17 HMR ammunition (e.g., 17-grain V-Max, 20-grain hollow points) to find what your specific rifle prefers. Each barrel is unique, and finding its preferred load can significantly tighten your groups.
• Cleaning Kit: Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital for preserving the accuracy and longevity of your rifle. A dedicated rimfire cleaning kit with appropriate bore brushes, patches, and cleaning solvents will help keep your barrel pristine.
• Bipod or Shooting Rest: For bench shooting or prone hunting, a bipod or a sturdy shooting rest will provide a stable platform, helping you achieve the utmost precision from your CZ 457 American.

Where to Find Your CZ 457 American Rifle

When you are ready to acquire this exceptional rimfire rifle, remember that the CZ 457 American (UPC 806703023120) and a wide array of high-quality firearms, ammunition, and accessories are available at DEGuns. As a trusted retailer, DEGuns offers a comprehensive selection and expert assistance to help you make the best choice for your shooting needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rimfire Rifles and the CZ 457 American

• Is the .17 HMR good for deer?
  No. The .17 HMR is a rimfire cartridge specifically designed for small game and varmints. It does not possess the kinetic energy or bullet weight required for humane and ethical deer hunting. For deer, a centerfire rifle in an appropriate caliber (e.g., .30-06, .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor) is required.
• How accurate is the CZ 457 American?
  The CZ 457 American series is widely recognized for its exceptional accuracy. Many shooters report achieving sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups at 50-100 yards with quality ammunition, meaning groups smaller than 1 inch at 100 yards. The cold hammer-forged barrel, adjustable trigger, and solid action contribute to its high level of precision, often outperforming rifles costing significantly more.
• What is the effective range of a .17 HMR?
  While the .17 HMR can be accurate out to 200 yards or even slightly beyond in ideal conditions, its effective ethical hunting range for most small game and varmints is typically considered to be within 150-175 yards. Beyond this, energy diminishes, and wind drift becomes a more significant factor. For target shooting, its precision can be enjoyed at even greater distances, though bullet drop will be more pronounced.
• Can I change the barrel on a CZ 457 American?
  The CZ 457 platform is designed with interchangeability in mind for certain models and calibers (e.g., switching between .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR using specific barrel kits). While the CZ 457 American in .17 HMR (UPC 806703023120) comes with a fixed .17 HMR barrel and does not typically involve common barrel changes for different calibers in this specific configuration, the underlying design of the 457 series allows for this modularity in other variants. Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines for specific model capabilities.
• Why choose a CZ rimfire over other brands?
  CZ-USA has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality, reliable, and exceptionally accurate firearms. Their rimfire rifles are particularly noted for their cold hammer-forged barrels, excellent triggers, and robust actions. They offer a significant step up in quality and precision compared to many entry-level rimfires, providing an outstanding value for their performance and durability. Many shooters consider them an heirloom-quality investment.

In summary, the CZ 457 American in .17 HMR is more than just a rifle; it's a testament to superior design and manufacturing. Whether your passion lies in precise varmint hunting, honing your competitive shooting skills, or simply enjoying the satisfaction of owning a beautifully crafted firearm, this model offers a compelling blend of performance, aesthetics, and enduring value. Its accuracy, reliability, and thoughtful features make it an intelligent choice for anyone seeking a high-performing rimfire rifle.

CZ 457 American .17 HMR Specifications

Feature	Detail
Manufacturer	CZ-USA
Model	457 American
Caliber	.17 HMR
Capacity	5+1 Rounds
Barrel Length	24.80 Inches
Stock	Turkish Walnut, American Style, Fixed
Finish	Blued
Hand	Right Hand
UPC	806703023120