Česká Zbrojovka 457 Synthetic £655.99

CZ’S latest rimfire combines accuracy with reliability at a competitive price, which all adds up to a must-have bit of kit, says Bruce Potts

The Sporter-style stock has a nice soft-touch

finish, with raised panels for tactile grip

The 457’s action is quite square and angular, but the most noticeable change is the repositioned bolt handle sets, plus magazine, from £205 — the overall design has a more modern and simple flavour. It is now available in a number of guises including wood, synthetic, mini sniper and heavy/sporter barrel.

The version on test was stainless finished, with a camouflage synthetic stock. All in all, it’s a well-designed rimfire at a competitive price, ideal for gamekeepers and rabbit shooters.