The Bruno CZ bolt action rifle

The Brno CZ .22 rifle is a renowned series of rimfire bolt-action rifles produced in Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic) by Česká Zbrojovka (CZ). These rifles have been widely used for target shooting, hunting small game, and training purposes due to their accuracy, reliability, and craftsmanship.

Historical Background

  • The origins of Brno rifles trace back to the interwar period when Czechoslovakia became a major firearms manufacturer.
  • The Zbrojovka Brno factory produced many well-regarded small arms, and in the mid-20th century, it began manufacturing .22-calibre bolt-action rifles.
  • After the formation of CZ (Česká Zbrojovka Uherský Brod), the Brno and CZ names became associated with quality firearms, with many rifles still branded as "Brno" or "CZ-Brno" in the 20th century.
  • The CZ Model 452, 455, and later 457 are among the most famous descendants of these early Brno .22 rifles.

Key Models and Features

Brno Model 1 (ZKM 451) – 1940s-1950s

  • The original Brno ZKM 451 (later called Model 1) was a high-quality, bolt-action, .22 LR rifle with a Mauser-style action.
  • It featured a grooved receiver for scope mounting, a detachable magazine, and a solid walnut stock.
  • Widely used in Europe for small game hunting and sport shooting.

Brno Model 2 (ZKM 452) – 1950s-1990s

  • Also known as the CZ 452, this became one of the most popular Brno .22 rifles.
  • Improvements over Model 1 included:
    • A stronger action and better barrel mounting for increased accuracy.
    • Adjustable sights and later versions with factory-threaded barrels for suppressors.
    • Detachable 5-round or 10-round magazines, making it more versatile.
  • This model gained a reputation for exceptional accuracy and durability, used worldwide by hunters and precision shooters.

Brno Model 3 & Model 4 – Target Variants

  • These were specialised competition rifles built for precision target shooting.
  • Featured heavy barrels, match-grade triggers, and precision iron sights.
  • Often used in Olympic-style .22 target shooting events.

Brno Model 5 & CZ 455 – 1990s-Present

  • The Brno Model 5 was a refinement of earlier models, leading to modern CZ 455 and 457 rifles.
  • CZ 455 introduced interchangeable barrels, allowing shooters to swap between .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR calibres.
  • CZ 457 further improved ergonomics, trigger adjustability, and barrel options.

Accuracy and Build Quality

  • Brno CZ .22 rifles are known for their cold-hammer-forged barrels, ensuring long life and high precision.
  • The bolt-action mechanism is smooth and reliable, comparable to classic Mauser designs.
  • Many shooters report sub-MOA accuracy (less than 1-inch groups at 100 yards) with quality ammunition.

Use and Legacy

  • Hunting: Ideal for small game like rabbits, squirrels, and foxes.
  • Target Shooting: Used in competitions due to their precision.
  • Training Rifle: Many military and police forces used Brno .22 rifles to train marksmen before transitioning to full-power rifles.
  • Collectors' Interest: Older Brno models, especially Model 1 and 2, are highly sought after by collectors.

Conclusion

The Brno CZ .22 rifle remains a benchmark for bolt-action rimfire rifles due to its accuracy, craftsmanship, and reliability. While newer models like the CZ 457 have continued the legacy, original Brno rifles are still prized for their classic design and shooting performance.