CZ 457 At-One Varmint Match .22 LR review: a precision rimfire?

The verdict on the CZ 457 At-One

The sport of long range rimfire shooting has really taken off. It offers a precision rifle experience at a fraction of the cost. However, some custom rimfires now command high prices.

The CZ 457 At-One Varmint Match is well positioned here. It delivers renowned accuracy and reliability at an affordable £1,207. This places it firmly within reach of UK shooters.

It is ideal for longer range precision work. It also offers assured rimfire hunting performance. It is built on CZ’s proven 457 action.

This features a quick and simple barrel change system. This model has a 20 inch varmint profile barrel. It features a match chamber to extract maximum accuracy.

Combine this with an excellent adjustable single stage trigger. It also features a simple, positive side mounted safety. Precise and safe fire control is therefore assured.

The thoughtfully designed laminate stock really stands out. Unlike polymer alternatives it offers rigidity and stability. It inspires confidence in all weather conditions.

The result is a rifle capable of stacking shots. It delivers genuine MOA performance at extended rimfire distances.

CZ has sensibly chosen a laminate varmint style stock. A quality laminate stock adds useful weight for stability. It feels far superior to polymer and looks good.

CZ has sourced the stock from Boyds in the USA. It is manufactured from laminated hardwood dried to exacting standards. It is sealed with a durable varnish finish.

The stock allows the shooter to tailor the fit. It features an adjustable cheekpiece and rubber butt pad. Press the button to adjust length of pull.

It adjusts from 12.5 inches to 14 inches. The cheekpiece offers around an inch of vertical adjustment. A polymer skid panel is fitted underneath.

This helps the rifle ride rear bags. It also incorporates a sling swivel stud. The brown laminate gives an attractive ripple effect.

The pistol grip lacks chequering but feels secure. Its upright angle gives a natural feel in the hand. The forend is generously proportioned and rounded.

The At-One Match features a heavy varmint profile barrel. This contributes to the rifle’s stable feel. It is threaded and finished with a well executed crown.

The six groove rifling uses a standard twist rate. It benefits from a match chamber for tighter tolerances. The 457 series features a quick change barrel system.

This allows calibre changes when paired with magazines. The 457 action is noticeably more square than older models. The bolt handle is now repositioned centrally.

This improves perceived cycling speed. The hand does not travel as far rearwards. The bolt features a short 60 degree lift.

Dual extractor claws provide a firm grip. Ejection is via a fixed ejector spur. An 11mm dovetail rail is machined into the receiver.

CZ triggers have always impressed me. The factory single stage adjustable trigger is more than adequate. It broke cleanly at just over 3lb on test.

It has an adjustment range of 1.8lb to 3.4lb. The safety has been updated to a toggle lever. It is far more user friendly than older designs.

It sits conveniently near the bolt handle. Overall this is an attractive precision rimfire.

I fitted an adjustable inclination scope mount for testing. I used a Swarovski 6-24×50 target scope. I began with Eley Subsonic 38gr ammunition.

Velocity averaged 1,055fps with 94ft/lb of energy. Five shot groups at 50 yards measured 0.647 inches. This is impressive performance and pleasantly quiet.

Next came dedicated long range loads. RWS R Plus Long Range produced tight 0.476 inch groups. It was extremely consistent with excellent retained energy.

Lapua Long Range grouped neatly at 0.481 inches. Lapua Centre-X produced the largest group of the day.

The standout performer was SK Long Range Match. It delivered an outstanding 0.378 inch group at 50 yards. At 100 yards it produced groups of 0.591 inches.

The stock is ideal for bipod use. Yet it is light enough for stalking. Balance is excellent and adjustability pays dividends.

It is a CZ so expectations are high. The 457 At-One Varmint Match delivers. Accuracy is excellent and reliability is rock solid.

Value for money is spot on. If you want a sensibly priced precision rimfire, look here. This rifle deserves some serious consideration.

Manufacturer: CZ

Model: At-One Varmint Match

Calibre: .22 LR (1:16 twist)

Barrel length: 20in (½in UNF thread)

Overall length: 36.8in to 38.7in

Weight: 3.5kg

Sights: None

Stock: Laminate (adjustable LOP and cheekpiece)

Length of pull: 12.5in to 14in

Stock finish: Varnish

Magazine: Five shot standard (10 shot option)

Safety: Side lever

Trigger: Single stage adjustable

Price: £1,206.99

Supplier: Sportsman Gun Centre