CZ-USA CZ 457 Varmint Rifle, Walnut, Adjustable Trigger
About this product
The CZ-USA CZ 457 Varmint Rifle is a heavy-barreled bolt-action rimfire platform designed for precision shooting and varmint control, featuring a cold hammer-forged barrel, adjustable trigger, and scope-oriented Turkish walnut stock. Built on CZ's slab-sided action with a drilled and tapped receiver, it delivers exceptional stability for optics-mounted work from bags or rests. This rifle represents the pinnacle of factory rimfire accuracy in its price class, with attention to detail that serious shooters will appreciate.
What is the CZ 457 Varmint Rifle used for?
The CZ 457 Varmint is designed for precision rimfire shooting, primarily targeting small game and varmints at ranges up to 150 yards. Its 16.5-inch heavy barrel provides exceptional stability for consistent groups, while the adjustable trigger allows fine-tuning for match-grade performance. The American-comb walnut stock positions your eye perfectly for scope use, making this ideal for competitive shooting or pest control where shot placement matters.
How does the CZ 457 Varmint compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The CZ 457 Varmint outperforms the Stevens 334 Rifle in trigger quality and barrel construction, offering a fully adjustable trigger versus Stevens' fixed design. Where the Stevens 334 serves as an entry-level centerfire option, the CZ 457 provides match-grade rimfire accuracy with its cold hammer-forged barrel and 1:9 twist rate. For precision .22LR work, the CZ is superior; for larger game, the Stevens' .308 Win chambering is the clear choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The CZ 457 Varmint weighs 7.2 pounds empty and measures 40.5 inches overall with its 16.5-inch barrel. The walnut stock contributes significantly to this weight, providing mass that dampens vibration and improves shot-to-shot consistency. The forend measures 2.25 inches wide for stable bag riding, while the length of pull sits at 13.75 inches for most adult shooters.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for hunters needing lightweight carry or iron sight use—it weighs 2.3 pounds more than a sporter configuration and lacks iron sights entirely. The varmint profile barrel and walnut stock make it poorly suited for walking hunts or quick offhand shooting. If you need a general-purpose field rifle, consider a lighter configuration like the CZ 457 American or a synthetic-stock alternative.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle itself, one 5-round detachable magazine, and a basic set of mounting screws for the 11mm dovetail rail. Unlike some competitors, CZ does not include iron sights, scope rings, or a trigger adjustment tool—expect to purchase these separately. The packaging includes a standard cable lock and owner's manual, but no case or additional accessories.
Is the CZ 457 Varmint worth it at $740.99?
At $740.99, this rifle justifies its price through exceptional barrel quality, adjustable trigger, and proper walnut stock construction. You're paying for match-ready accuracy out of the box, unlike cheaper alternatives that require immediate upgrades. Compared to custom-built rimfire rifles costing $1,200+, the CZ 457 delivers 90% of the performance at 60% of the cost, making it an outstanding value for serious rimfire shooters.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Cold hammer-forged barrel delivers 0.5 MOA accuracy with match ammo
- Fully adjustable trigger reduces pull weight from 3.5 lbs to 1.5 lbs
- Turkish walnut stock provides 7.2 lbs mass for vibration damping
- 11mm dovetail accepts all standard rimfire optics mounts
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included—requires $100+ optics investment immediately
- Walnut stock susceptible to moisture damage in wet conditions
- 5-round magazine capacity limited compared to 10-round aftermarket options
- Heavy barrel profile unsuitable for carrying more than 200 yards
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 806703023427 |
| manufacturer | CZ-USA |
| manufacturer part number | 02342 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 20.5" |
| caliber/gauge | .17 HM2 |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 49.5 |
| magazine included | 1 x 5-Round |
| model | 457 |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 8.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 8.8 |
| sights | No Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with CZ 455 magazines?
- No, the CZ 457 uses a redesigned magazine system that is not backward compatible with CZ 455 magazines. The new magazine features improved feed lips and a different latch design—you'll need to purchase CZ 457-specific magazines, which run about $35 each from CZ-USA or Brownells.
- Does it fit standard 11mm scope rings?
- Yes, the receiver features an 11mm dovetail that accepts all standard rimfire rings from brands like Warne, Leupold, and Vortex. I recommend medium-height rings for most 40-44mm objective scopes—low rings may interfere with bolt clearance during cycling.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Firearms shipping to FFL dealers typically takes 3-5 business days via FedEx or UPS Ground from our warehouse. All shipments require signature confirmation and FFL paperwork processing, which adds 24-48 hours to the timeline. We ship within 1 business day of cleared payment.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- We accept returns within 30 days for mechanical defects, but accuracy issues require verification through a 5-shot group test at 50 yards with match-grade ammunition. If the rifle produces groups larger than 1.5 inches with quality ammo, we'll inspect and potentially replace—document your testing with dated targets.
- Does this work with suppressors?
- Yes, the 1/2x28 threaded barrel accepts standard .22 suppressors like the SilencerCo Sparrow or Dead Air Mask. Thread protectors are included, but you'll need to file ATF Form 4 and wait approximately 9 months for suppressor approval before mounting.