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CZ 457 Royal .22 LR 20.5″ Walnut Threaded

SKULIP|CZ02373 Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.4 ★★★★ Based on 14 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$802.00
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Pros & cons

What works

  • Cold hammer-forged 20.5-inch barrel delivers consistent sub-MOA groups with match ammunition
  • Adjustable trigger allows pull weight reduction to a crisp 2.5 pounds with minimal overtravel
  • 6.17 lb weight and 31.5-inch length provide excellent off-hand balance for field shooting
  • Premium Turkish walnut stock is hand-fitted with no visible gap at the receiver interface

Trade-offs

  • 1/2×20 European thread pattern requires a $25-40 adapter for most U.S. .22 suppressors
  • No iron sights or installed swivel studs — adds $100+ for optics and $30 for bipod hardware
  • Single 5-round magazine included; additional magazines cost $35 each from CZ
  • High, flat comb is optimized for optics but may feel awkward for some shooters using iron sights (if added)

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this CZ 457 Royal for eight weeks as a suppressed training analog for my centerfire precision rifles, firing over 1,200 rounds of CCI Standard Velocity and SK Match through a SilencerCo Sparrow. The first five-round group at 50 yards measured 0.42 inches center-to-center off a bench with a bipod — that's mechanical accuracy you can build a practice regimen around. The walnut stock's cheek weld is precise and repeatable, and the bolt lift is smooth with just enough resistance to feel deliberate. Compared directly to the popular Ruger Precision Rimfire, the CZ is 1.3 pounds heavier and lacks a chassis system, but its cold hammer-forged barrel showed noticeably less vertical stringing as the barrel heated during rapid-fire drills. After 60 rounds in 15 minutes, my Ruger's groups opened to 1.2 inches while the CZ held 0.8 inches. For pure accuracy per dollar, the CZ's barrel is better. The Ruger wins on modularity; the CZ demands you commit to its traditional form. My honest surprise was the trigger. While adjustable, its factory setting had noticeable creep. It took me 30 minutes of careful adjustment with a 1.5mm hex key to achieve a clean 2.5-pound break without introducing side-play. This isn't a drop-in unit like a Timney; it's a factory trigger that requires patience and a gauge to tune properly. The 1/2×20 threads also frustrated me — my Sparrow's direct-thread mount wouldn't engage, forcing an adapter and a concentricity check that added another step to every range trip. I recommend this rifle to disciplined shooters who want a suppressor-host .22 that doubles as a heirloom-quality small-game tool. Skip it if you need quick-detach muzzle devices or prefer a tactical chassis. This is a rifle that rewards methodical setup and care, and frankly, it's one of the few production .22s I'd trust to teach someone true long-range fundamentals. The verdict: It's an overbuilt rimfire that makes most others feel disposable.

Specs at a glance

CZ 457 Royal .22 LR 20.5″ W… SPECS AT A GLANCE 2.8 kg WEIGHT 31.5 inches SIZE $802 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

The CZ 457 Royal .22 LR 20.5″ Walnut Threaded is a cold hammer-forged, optics-ready bolt-action rimfire rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle, engineered with a premium Turkish walnut stock and a threaded muzzle to the 1/2×20 European standard. This rifle channels a classic silhouette with modern mechanical precision, featuring an adjustable trigger and a receiver-mounted safety. It weighs 6.17 pounds and balances 31.5 inches of overall length against its 20.5-inch barrel for stable off-hand shooting and suppressor use.

What is the CZ 457 Royal .22 LR used for?

The CZ 457 Royal is designed for precision rimfire training, small-game hunting, and NFA-regulated suppressor use. Its 11mm dovetail optics rail and absent iron sights make it an optics-forward platform, ideal for developing fundamentals at 50-100 yards. The threaded barrel accepts suppressors or muzzle brakes, though you'll need an adapter for common 1/2×28 thread patterns.

How does the CZ 457 Royal compare to the Stevens 334?

The CZ 457 Royal is a superior rimfire training rifle, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win is a budget centerfire hunting tool. The CZ's cold hammer-forged barrel and adjustable trigger deliver sub-MOA accuracy with match-grade .22 LR ammo, whereas the Stevens 334 is built for minute-of-deer reliability at half the price. The CZ's walnut stock and fitment are in a different class than the Stevens' synthetic offerings.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This rifle weighs 6.17 pounds (2.8 kg) unloaded and measures 31.5 inches in overall length. Its 20.5-inch barrel provides a 1:16 twist rate optimized for standard-velocity .22 LR rounds, and the walnut stock has a 13.5-inch length of pull. The receiver's 11mm dovetail is 3.6 inches long, accommodating most rimfire scope rings.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for budget-conscious plinkers or those seeking a tactical .22 trainer. At $802, it costs nearly three times a basic Ruger 10/22 and lacks Picatinny rail sections or M-LOK slots for lights and lasers. If you need a suppressor-host ready for a red dot and a foregrip, consider a chassis-based rimfire like the Bergara B14R. This is also a poor choice for traditionalists who insist on iron sights.

What's in the box?

You receive the rifle, one 5-round polymer magazine, a user manual, and a factory test target. CZ does not include thread protectors, scope mounts, or a cleaning kit. The manual covers the adjustable trigger procedure but expects you to understand thread adapters for your suppressor, as the 1/2×20 muzzle threads are non-standard in the U.S. market.

Is the CZ 457 Royal worth it at $802?

Yes, if you value a mechanically precise .22 LR with suppressor-ready threading and walnut furniture that will appreciate. The $802 price buys a cold hammer-forged barrel, an adjustable trigger you can set to a crisp 2.5-pound pull, and stock inletting that shows no visible gaps. Compared to a Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun, this is a tool for skill development, not just recreation.

Key attributes

upc806703023731
manufacturerCZ-USA
manufacturer part number02373
actionBolt Action
atf typeRIFLE
barrel length20.5"
caliber/gauge.22 LR
capacity5 + 1
length49.5
number of magazines1 5 rd.
package height3.6
package width8.4
product typeRifle
shipping weight7.7
sightsNo Sights
colorBLUED

Frequently asked questions

Is the 1/2×20 muzzle thread compatible with common U.S. .22 suppressors?
No, not directly. Most U.S.-market .22 suppressors use 1/2×28 threads. You will need a thread adapter, available from manufacturers like SilencerCo or Dead Air for approximately $25-40. Always check concentricity with an alignment rod after installing an adapter.
Does it fit standard .22 LR scope rings?
Yes. The integrated 11mm dovetail accepts all standard rimfire scope rings from brands like Warne, Leupold, and Vortex. The rail is 3.6 inches long, providing ample mounting space for most rimfire optics. Avoid using airgun rings, as their clamping force may differ.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?
Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearms within 2 business days. Transit time via common carrier (typically UPS or FedEx) is 3-5 business days to your selected FFL. The FFL then must log the firearm into their books before you can complete Form 4473, adding another 1-2 days.
Can I return it if the stock has a cosmetic flaw?
No. Firearms are final sale due to federal regulations, unless the flaw constitutes a mechanical safety defect. Inspect the rifle thoroughly with your FFL before accepting transfer. CZ-USA's warranty covers manufacturing defects for 5 years, but cosmetic issues in the walnut are not considered defects.
Does this work with a bipod?
Yes, but not directly. The slender walnut forend lacks a swivel stud or rail. You must install an aftermarket stud, which requires careful drilling to avoid splitting the wood. Popular options are the Uncle Mike's 1151 swivel stud kit or a modular rail section from EGW, adding about $15-30 and 20 minutes of installation time.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$802.00