CZ 457 American LH .22 LR 5rd Walnut Bolt Rifle
About this product
The CZ 457 American LH is a left-handed, full-size .22 LR bolt-action rifle designed for scoped use and precise rimfire performance. This is the dedicated southpaw variant of CZ’s respected 457 platform, built on a traditional Turkish walnut stock with a modern, adjustable action. It delivers the reliable, cold-hammer-forged precision CZ is known for, configured specifically for the 10-15% of shooters who require a true left-hand manual-of-arms.
What is the CZ 457 American LH used for?
This rifle is a dedicated small-game and target platform for left-handed shooters who value traditional aesthetics and modern mechanical precision. Its 1:16 twist cold-hammer-forged barrel and adjustable trigger are optimized for consistent .22 LR accuracy at ranges up to 100 yards, making it ideal for squirrel hunting, rimfire silhouette competition, and foundational marksmanship training. The high, flat comb and drilled-and-tapped receiver facilitate secure scope mounting, which is non-negotiable for serious field or target work.
How does the CZ 457 American LH compare to the Stevens 334?
The CZ 457 American LH is better for precision-oriented shooters, while the Stevens 334 centers around budget-friendly centerfire utility. The CZ's primary advantage is its superior barrel construction (cold hammer forging vs. button rifling), a fully adjustable trigger, and a premium Turkish walnut stock, justifying its $695 price point against the Stevens' ~$400 synthetic-stocked offering. For a left-hander seeking a refined .22 LR trainer or hunter, the CZ is the objectively more capable tool, whereas the Stevens 334 chambered in .243 Win or .308 Win serves an entirely different role as an entry-level big-game rifle.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.17 lbs (99.2 oz) unloaded, with an overall length of 41.5 inches and a 24.8-inch barrel. This weight distribution, centered around a 1.5-inch diameter at the receiver, provides a stable 7.2-inch length of pull that balances well for offhand shooting without feeling muzzle-light. Compared to a synthetic-stocked rifle like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win, the CZ's walnut adds approximately 1.1 lbs, which dampens felt recoil (minimal in .22 LR) and improves steadiness on a bench.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for right-handed shooters, tactical rimfire enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a high-capacity plinker. A right-handed shooter would find the left-hand bolt throw and safety awkward and slower to operate. The 5-round magazine capacity and traditional walnut stock make it a poor choice for dynamic shooting games or as a suppressor host where a threaded barrel and synthetic stock are typically preferred. If your needs trend toward high-volume informal plinking, a 10/22 or similar semi-auto is a more suitable tool.
What's in the box?
You receive the barreled action in the walnut stock, one 5-round polymer magazine, and the appropriate owner's manual and warranty documentation. CZ does not include scope rings, a case, or a cleaning kit, so budget an additional $40-$120 for quality 11mm rings and a minimum of 20 minutes for proper initial degreasing and bore-snapping before your first range trip. The manual clearly outlines the 60-degree bolt throw and the two-position, push-to-fire safety operation, which is crucial for left-hand muscle memory development.
Is the CZ 457 American LH worth it at $694.99?
At $695, this rifle is worth it for the left-handed shooter who demands a purpose-built, precision-oriented .22 LR with traditional craftsmanship. You are paying a ~$250 premium over a basic right-hand .22 bolt gun for the dedicated left-hand configuration, the cold-hammer-forged barrel, and the figured Turkish walnut, which are tangible upgrades in longevity, accuracy potential, and aesthetics. If your budget is under $500 or you primarily want a disposable truck gun, this isn't it. But as a lifetime-ownership rifle for a southpaw, the investment in correct ergonomics and proven Czech machining is justified.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- True left-hand bolt and safety - correct manual-of-arms for southpaw shooters.
- Cold-hammer-forged barrel with 1:16 twist - provides superior durability and consistent .22 LR accuracy potential.
- Fully adjustable trigger - user can set pull weight and over-travel for a clean break.
- Premium Turkish walnut stock - 6.17 lb weight aids stability, superior to synthetic for dampening vibration.
Trade-offs
- Barrel is not threaded - cannot direct-mount a suppressor without a $150+ gunsmithing job.
- 5-round magazine capacity only - low for high-volume training sessions compared to 10-round options.
- Premium materials increase cost - $250+ more than a basic synthetic-stocked .22 bolt gun.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 806703023908 |
| manufacturer | CZ-USA |
| manufacturer part number | 02390 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 24.8" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 49.5 |
| magazine included | 1 x 5-Round |
| model | 457 |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.4 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 7.85 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- Yes, it is chambered for standard .22 Long Rifle ammunition. I recommend testing a variety of subsonic, standard velocity, and high-velocity rounds to find what your specific barrel prefers, as the 1:16 twist rate can exhibit different accuracy nodes. Avoid hyper-velocity rounds like CCI Stingers, as they are longer than SAAMI spec and can cause excessive pressure in a chamber not specifically cut for them.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, with a 41.5-inch overall length, it will fit in most 42-inch or longer takedown rifle cases. For a hard case with foam, I use a Plano All-Weather 42-inch model, which provides a precise cutout and room for a small scope. Ensure the case interior width is at least 9 inches to accommodate the stock's 2.8-inch width at the pistol grip without compression.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- For in-stock items, processing and carrier handoff typically takes 1-2 business days. Ground shipping transit to most Continental US FFLs adds 3-7 business days. You must have your chosen FFL's license on file with us before shipment; failure to do this adds a minimum 24-hour delay. Always confirm your FFL's receiving hours before arranging pickup.
- Can I return it if there is a mechanical defect?
- Yes, we offer a 30-day return for mechanical defects verified by our armorers. The process requires an RMA issued by our support team and return shipping to our facility in Bozeman, MT, which typically takes 7-10 days for assessment. Cosmetic issues with the wood grain or minor tool marks consistent with CZ's production standard do not constitute a defect. The rifle must be returned unfired, in original packaging.
- Does this work with a suppressor?
- No, this specific model's barrel is not factory-threaded. Adding threads requires a certified gunsmith to cut, crown, and thread the 0.625-inch muzzle diameter, a service costing between $150-$250 plus the suppressor tax stamp. If a suppressed left-hand .22 is your goal, seek a factory-threaded model like the CZ 457 LRP or consider the <a href="/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-410/">Stevens 555 in .410</a> for a different kind of suppressed small-game option.