This comparison examines two popular .22 LR rifles from Czech firearms manufacturer esk zbrojovka Uhersk Brod (CZ): the 457 Pro Varmint and the 457 American. Both are built on the CZ 457 platform, known for its accuracy, reliability, and user-friendly features. However, key differences in stock design, barrel profile, and intended use distinguish these two models, making them suitable for distinct shooting disciplines and preferences.
The choice between these rifles often depends on the shooter’s priorities. A heavier barrel and robust stock make one option ideal for benchrest shooting and varmint hunting, providing stability and minimizing recoil. The other, with its lighter, more traditional sporting stock, excels in offhand shooting and hunting small game, emphasizing maneuverability and quick target acquisition. The CZ 457 series itself represents a significant step forward in rimfire rifle design, incorporating features like adjustable triggers and easily interchangeable barrels, catering to a wide range of shooting activities.