CZ 457 Varmint LH Bolt-Action .22 LR 5rd Walnut
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The CZ 457 Varmint LH is a left-handed bolt-action .22 LR rifle engineered for precision target shooting and varmint control, featuring a heavy, cold-hammer-forged barrel, an adjustable trigger, and a Turkish walnut varmint stock. It’s a dedicated platform for shooters who demand repeatable mechanical accuracy from a rimfire system, not a casual plinker. This configuration, with its 11mm dovetail receiver and American-style comb, is built from the ground up for scope-mounted, deliberate firing, making it a viable tool for rimfire precision rifle (RFPR) matches or managing small pests out to 100 yards.
What is the CZ 457 Varmint LH used for?
Its primary use is for competitive rimfire precision shooting and controlled varmint hunting at ranges from 25 to 100 yards, where its 7.08 lb weight and 1:16" twist rate barrel stabilize standard- and high-velocity .22 LR ammunition for sub-MOA grouping potential. The 16.5-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel provides the rigid platform needed for consistency, while the receiver-mounted two-position safety is fast and intuitive for competition use. I would not recommend it for run-and-gun tactical rimfire matches; the heavy varmint barrel profile and walnut stock make it a stable, but slower-handling, firearm.
How does the CZ 457 Varmint LH compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
These rifles serve entirely different purposes: the CZ 457 is a precision .22 LR platform, while the Stevens 334 .243 Win is an entry-level centerfire hunting rifle. The Stevens 334 in .243 Win is better for deer hunting at 150+ yards, but the CZ 457 Varmint LH is decisively superior for developing fundamental marksmanship skills or competing in rimfire leagues due to its adjustable trigger and inherent mechanical accuracy, all while costing less than $1 per round to fire versus several dollars per round for .243 Win. For the dedicated rimfire precision shooter, the CZ is the correct tool; for a hunter needing a versatile, budget centerfire, consider the Stevens 334.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.08 lbs (3.21 kg) without optics, with an overall length of 40.5 inches and a 16.5-inch barrel. The stock’s length of pull is approximately 13.75 inches, which is standard for an adult rifle, and the 11mm dovetail on the receiver is 3.8 inches long. That 7.08 lb weight is a critical spec—it’s 1.2 lbs heavier than a standard sporter .22, adding mass that dampens recoil impulse and shooter tremor, directly contributing to on-target stability.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for a first-time shooter seeking a lightweight, general-purpose .22, or for anyone who isn't left-handed. Right-handed shooters should avoid it, as the bolt handle and ejection port are configured exclusively for left-hand operation. It’s also a poor choice for anyone unwilling to mount a quality optic; the included 5-round magazine and lack of iron sights make it reliant on a scope to realize its precision potential, adding at least another $150-$300 to the total system cost. If you need a simple, ambidextrous .22 for plinking, look elsewhere.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 5-round polymer detachable magazine, and the necessary manual and warranty paperwork—no optic, rings, or case is included. The magazine is a specific CZ 457 pattern; it is not compatible with older CZ 455 magazines without modification. Count on purchasing a set of 11mm dovetail rings or a Picatinny rail adapter, and a hard or soft rifle case rated for at least 42 inches in length to transport it safely.
Is the CZ 457 Varmint LH worth it at $740.99?
At $740.99, it represents strong value for a left-handed shooter committed to precision rimfire work, given its cold-hammer-forged barrel, adjustable trigger, and swappable barrel system. You are paying a premium over a basic Stevens 555 shotgun for match-grade potential and southpaw ergonomics that are rare in the market. If your goal is to shoot dime-sized groups at 50 yards or compete seriously, this price is justified. If you just want a .22 to shoot tin cans, this is overbuilt and overpriced for that role.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- True left-hand bolt and ejection port—eliminates brass-in-face for southpaw shooters.
- Cold-hammer-forgged 16.5" barrel with 1:16" twist—delivers consistent sub-MOA accuracy with match ammo.
- Adjustable trigger from 2.5 to 4.5 lbs—allows tuning for competition or field use.
- Swappable barrel system—enables caliber changes to .17 HMR or .22 WMR in under 10 minutes with the proper barrel.
Trade-offs
- Heavy at 7.08 lbs—over 1.2 lbs heavier than a CZ 457 American, making it sluggish for offhand shooting.
- No iron sights included—requires immediate optic and ring purchase, adding $150+ to total cost.
- Walnut stock susceptible to dings—the Turkish walnut is beautiful but less durable than laminate or synthetic for hard field use.
Key attributes
| upc | 806703023922 |
| manufacturer | CZ-USA |
| manufacturer part number | 02392 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Black Nitride |
| barrel length | 20.50" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 49.3800 |
| 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 | 8.6 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 11mm dovetail rings?
- Yes, the receiver is milled with a standard 3.8-inch long 11mm dovetail. Most standard 11mm rimfire rings from brands like Warne, Leupold, or UTG will mount directly. I recommend using rings with a recoil stop pin or opt for a Picatinny rail adapter from DIP or Area 419 for maximum stability with heavier optics.
- Does it fit in a standard 42-inch rifle case?
- Yes. With an overall length of 40.5 inches, it will fit comfortably in any hard or soft case rated for 42 inches or longer. I use a Plano All Weather 42-inch case for transport to the range, and there's still room for a small ammo box and hearing protection alongside the rifle.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearms within 1-2 business days. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground is typically 3-7 business days to your selected FFL dealer. You must contact your dealer to provide their license and coordinate pickup once you receive the tracking number from our system.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms are final sale per federal regulations, unless the item is defective or not as described. We strongly recommend confirming the left-hand configuration and 13.75-inch length of pull with your measurements before purchasing. All firearms are test-fired and inspected for function prior to shipment.
- Does this work with a suppressor?
- Yes, the barrel is threaded 1/2"x28 TPI, which is the standard for .22 LR suppressors. You will need to ensure your chosen suppressor is rated for .22 LR and submit the proper ATF Form 4 with a tax stamp before taking possession. I've used a SilencerCo Sparrow on this model with excellent results, reducing report by approximately 28 decibels.
- What is the trigger pull weight range?
- The adjustable single-stage trigger can be set between approximately 2.5 lbs and 4.5 lbs out of the box. I set my test unit to a crisp 2.75 lbs for precision work. Adjustment requires a 1.5mm hex key and should be done with the firearm unloaded and pointed in a safe direction.