CZ 457 American Hunter .22 LR Veil Camo Bronze PVD 5rd

About this product

What is the CZ 457 American Hunter .22 LR Veil Camo Bronze PVD 5rd? It is a lightweight, precision-focused bolt-action rimfire rifle designed for small-game hunting and suppressed shooting, built with a cold hammer-forged barrel and a durable synthetic stock. This rifle is engineered for shooters who prioritize consistent mechanical accuracy and practical field features over aesthetic ornamentation, with a strong emphasis on the regulatory-friendly .22 LR platform. The combination of its threaded muzzle, drilled-and-tapped receiver, and detachable magazine make it one of the most adaptable rimfire platforms available for both recreational and serious varmint control work.

What is the CZ 457 American Hunter used for?

Its primary use is for suppressed small-game hunting and precision rimfire training. The cold hammer-forged 16.5-inch barrel delivers the mechanical consistency needed for headshots on squirrels or rabbits at 50 yards, while the 1/2×28 threaded muzzle allows you to mount a suppressor (with proper NFA compliance) for low-recoil, low-noise operation that won't spook other game. I've found it equally effective for entry-level long-range fundamentals training, as its 5.4 lb weight and crisp trigger mimic centerfire bolt-gun handling without the cost-per-round penalty.

How does the CZ 457 American Hunter compare to the Stevens 334?

The CZ 457 American Hunter is mechanically superior for precision rimfire work, while the Stevens 334 in .308 is a better tool for medium-game hunting. The CZ's 60-degree bolt throw is 25% shorter and smoother than the Stevens' 90-degree action, allowing for faster follow-up shots without breaking cheek weld, and its cold hammer-forged barrel construction provides demonstrably better barrel harmonics and longevity than the button-rifled barrel common on budget centerfires like the 334. For pure, repeatable .22 LR accuracy under field conditions, the CZ is the definitive choice, though the Stevens chambered in .243 or .308 is obviously the only option for deer or larger game.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded, the rifle weighs 5.4 lbs (86.4 oz) and measures 34 inches in overall length. The barrel itself is 16.5 inches long, a length that provides a good balance of velocity and maneuverability in thick brush, and the synthetic stock has a length of pull of approximately 13.75 inches. This puts it on the lighter side of dedicated varmint rifles—for comparison, many .22 LR target models with heavy barrels can exceed 8 lbs—making it easy to carry for a 4-hour hunt without fatigue.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for shooters seeking a cheap, high-capacity plinker or a dedicated, heavy-target rifle. The 5-round magazine capacity and $740.99 price point make it a poor choice compared to a semi-automatic like a Ruger 10/22 if your primary goal is informal, high-volume shooting at cans. Conversely, if your sole purpose is winning benchrest competitions, the lightweight synthetic stock and sporter-profile barrel lack the stabilized mass of a true target chassis system, which can cost as much as this entire rifle. This is a purpose-built field tool, not a generalist.

What's in the box?

You receive the rifle, one 5-round detachable steel magazine, a standard set of mounting screws for the 11mm dovetail, and the manufacturer's manual. CZ does not include optic rings, a case, or a thread protector in the standard packaging—plan on purchasing those separately. The manual is critical as it details the adjustable trigger pull weight, which can be set from approximately 2.5 lbs to 4.5 lbs using the supplied Allen key (though one is not always included; have a metric set handy).

Is the CZ 457 American Hunter worth it at $740.99?

Yes, if you require a suppressor-ready, precision-oriented .22 LR for hunting or training where shot consistency matters more than round count. The cold hammer-forged barrel and fully adjustable trigger are features typically found on rimfire rifles costing over $1,000, like the higher-end CZ 457 MTR. When you consider that a quality suppressor mount and a basic optic will add another $400-$600 to your total setup, the rifle's foundational accuracy justifies its price as the core component. If your budget is under $500 and you just want a reliable .22, look at the Stevens 334 platform in its rimfire configuration, but understand you're trading barrel construction and trigger refinement for initial cost savings.