The CZ 457 Synthetic .22LR Varmint with a 16-inch threaded barrel is a practical choice for Tennessee shooters who need a reliable rimfire rifle for dispatching groundhogs in Middle Tennessee fields or for consistent practice at ranges like the Dead Zero Shooting Park in Spencer. Whether you are working through a brick of ammunition on a Saturday morning or checking zero before a predator hunt, this bolt-action rifle offers the precision and durability expected from a Czech firearms manufacturer.
What This Product Is and Who It Is For
The CZ 457 Synthetic is a bolt-action rimfire rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle, designed for shooters who value accuracy and repeatability without the weight or cost of a full-competition platform. This particular variant features a heavy Varmint-profile barrel, a synthetic stock, and a factory-threaded muzzle with a 1/2×28 thread pattern. It is suited for target shooters who want a dedicated range rifle, small-game hunters pursuing squirrels or rabbits, and varmint hunters who need a quiet, suppressed option for pest control. Collectors will appreciate the CZ 457’s lineage as an evolution of the proven 455 action, while home defense users may find it a low-recoil option for property protection in rural Tennessee settings. This is not a tactical rifle; it is a straightforward, accurate tool for those who shoot regularly.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle (LR)
- Action: Bolt-action, CZ 457 platform with 60-degree bolt lift
- Barrel Length: 16 inches, heavy Varmint profile
- Muzzle Thread: 1/2×28 TPI, factory-threaded with thread protector included
- Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds, detachable box magazine
- Stock: Black synthetic, with textured grip panels and sling swivel studs
- Overall Length: Approximately 36.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 6.4 pounds (unloaded)
- Sights: None; receiver is grooved for 11mm dovetail scope rings (see compatibility notes)
- Safety: Two-position tang safety, bolt release button
- Receiver Material: Steel, with a matte black finish
- Barrel Finish: Matte black, cold hammer-forged steel
Feature Deep-Dive
The CZ 457 action is the heart of this rifle, and it represents a significant upgrade over earlier CZ rimfire designs. The 60-degree bolt lift allows for faster cycling without bumping a mounted scope, which is beneficial when shooting from a bench or prone position. The bolt itself is forged and machined from steel, with a dual-extractor system that provides reliable case extraction even with lower-velocity ammunition. The adjustable trigger is another standout component; it comes from the factory with a crisp break and can be adjusted for pull weight between approximately 2.5 and 4.5 pounds using an included tool. This adjustability lets the shooter dial in the trigger feel for precision work without needing aftermarket parts.
The 16-inch Varmint barrel is a deliberate choice for this model. While longer barrels are common on target rifles, the shorter length reduces overall weight and makes the rifle more maneuverable in the field or when moving through dense cover. The heavy profile adds stiffness, which helps maintain consistent accuracy as the barrel warms up during extended shooting sessions. The factory threading with the 1/2×28 pattern is a practical addition, allowing direct attachment of common .22 caliber suppressors or muzzle devices without needing a gunsmith. CZ cold hammer-forges these barrels, a process that compresses the steel for consistent bore dimensions and longevity.
The synthetic stock is a functional choice for Tennessee’s variable climate. It resists swelling from humidity, does not warp in direct sunlight, and handles the occasional rain shower without issue. The stock includes molded-in textured panels on the grip and fore-end, providing a secure hold even with damp hands or gloves. The comb height is designed to align with a scope mounted in medium rings, and the stock includes sling swivel studs for adding a bipod or carrying sling. While not adjustable for length of pull or cheek height, the stock geometry works well for most adult shooters and keeps the rifle’s weight down.
Magazine compatibility is straightforward: the rifle uses CZ 457-specific 5-round detachable box magazines. These magazines are made from steel with a polymer floorplate and feed .22 LR cartridges reliably. The magazine release is positioned at the front of the trigger guard and is ambidextrous, allowing for quick changes without shifting your firing hand. The action also accepts the larger 10-round and 25-round magazines from CZ’s accessory line, though these will extend below the stock. The magazine well is designed to prevent over-insertion, a common issue with some rimfire rifles.
The receiver is grooved with an 11mm dovetail, which is the standard for European rimfire rifles. This allows direct mounting of CZ-branded or compatible 11mm dovetail scope rings without needing a rail. However, if you prefer a Picatinny or Weaver base, several aftermarket manufacturers produce rail adapters that bolt onto the receiver. The receiver is drilled and tapped for those adapters, though it comes with no iron sights. Plan on mounting a scope or red dot sight before your first range trip. The matte black finish on both the barrel and receiver is durable and non-reflective, reducing glare in bright Tennessee sunlight.
Finally, the two-position tang safety is intuitive and easy to operate. Pushing it forward with the thumb exposes a red dot indicating the rifle is ready to fire. Pulling it rearward blocks the trigger and locks the bolt. This safety design is less prone to accidental engagement compared to cross-bolt safeties found on some budget rimfire rifles. The bolt release button is located on the left side of the receiver, allowing the bolt to be removed for cleaning without tools. These details reflect CZ’s engineering focus on practical, long-term reliability.
Ideal Use Cases
This rifle is primarily suited for target shooting and small-game hunting. The 16-inch barrel and synthetic stock make it light enough to carry on a walk through Cherokee National Forest for squirrel hunting, yet the heavy Varmint profile provides the stability needed for bench rest shooting at 50 to 100 yards. It is a solid choice for rimfire competitions like NRL22 or local steel challenge matches, where the threaded barrel allows for suppressor use without sacrificing accuracy. It is not designed for concealed carry or home defense in the traditional sense, though it could serve as a property defense rifle on a Tennessee farm where ranges are moderate and over-penetration is a concern. The .22 LR cartridge is not a primary defensive round, but it is suitable for dispatching varmints or snakes around outbuildings.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: This rifle cycles standard-velocity, high-velocity, and subsonic .22 LR ammunition. It prefers higher-quality ammunition for best accuracy, but it will function with bulk-pack rounds. Avoid .22 Short, .22 Long, or .22 Magnum.
- Suppressors: The 1/2×28 threaded muzzle is compatible with most .22 caliber suppressors. Ensure the suppressor is rated for rimfire use. A thread protector is included.
- Scopes and Rings: The 11mm dovetail receiver accepts CZ 11mm rings or aftermarket dovetail rings. For most scopes, medium-height rings provide proper clearance. A scope with an objective lens up to 40mm will typically fit without interference.
- Magazines: Use CZ 457 magazines only. The rifle ships with one 5-round magazine. CZ 455 magazines are not compatible without modification. Aftermarket magazines from M*CARBO or others may work but are not factory tested.
- Stocks and Chassis: The action fits most aftermarket stocks designed for the CZ 457, including chassis systems from MDT, KRG, and Boyd’s. Verify inlet specifications before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle be shipped directly to my address in Tennessee?
A: No. Federal law requires that all firearms shipped from a licensed FFL dealer be transferred to another FFL dealer in your state. We ship to any Tennessee FFL holder you designate. You will need to complete a Form 4473 and pass a NICS background check at the receiving dealer before taking possession.
Q: What is the FFL transfer process for Tennessee customers?
A: After placing your order, provide us with the FFL license information of your chosen receiving dealer. We verify the license, ship the rifle via a common carrier, and provide tracking. Contact your receiving dealer to schedule the transfer. Transfer fees are set by the receiving dealer and are separate from our purchase price.
Q: Can I use .22 Short or .22 Long ammunition in this rifle?
A: No. This rifle is designed and proofed for .22 Long Rifle ammunition only. Using .22 Short or .22 Long can cause cycling issues, poor accuracy, and potential safety concerns due to differences in chamber pressure and cartridge dimensions.
Q: What warranty covers this rifle?
A: CZ-USA provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original retail purchaser. This covers defects in materials and workmanship. Normal wear, improper maintenance, and modifications are not covered. We recommend registering your warranty with CZ-USA after purchase.
Q: What is your return policy for firearms?
A: Due to federal regulations, we cannot accept returns on firearms once they leave our inventory. If the rifle arrives damaged or has a manufacturer defect, contact us immediately. We will work with CZ-USA to arrange a replacement or repair under warranty. All sales are final on functional firearms.
Closing Call to Action
This CZ 457 Synthetic Varmint is in stock and available for immediate shipping to your Tennessee FFL dealer. Whether you need a reliable rimfire for range practice or a lightweight rifle for small-game hunting, this model delivers consistent performance without unnecessary extras. Place your order through tn-guns.com, and we will handle the FFL transfer coordination. For questions about compatibility or shipping, contact our team during business hours.
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