CZ 457 Varmint MTR

[Terry V]

Yesterday I was messing around on the internet when I came across some info about CZ 457 Varmint MTR's and I thought I would share it...

The CZ 457 Varmint MTR (Match Target Rifle) is designed for accuracy, and its stock is specifically shaped to facilitate proper grip and shooting technique, particularly for prone or bench shooting. Here's a breakdown of proper grip placement and related considerations:
1. Firing Hand (Right Hand for Right-Handed Shooters):
Vertical Pistol Grip: The CZ 457 Varmint MTR features a vertical pistol grip with a palm swell and stippling. This vertical orientation is designed for a more relaxed wrist and precise trigger control.
Relaxed Grip: The primary role of your firing hand is to control the trigger. Your grip should be firm enough to maintain control but relaxed enough to avoid imparting torque to the rifle. You want to avoid "milking" the grip or squeezing it excessively, as this can pull your shots.
Trigger Finger Isolation: The vertical grip and palm swell are intended to help isolate your trigger finger so you can pull the trigger straight back without disturbing the rifle's aim.
Consistent Placement: Aim for consistent hand placement on the grip every time you shoot. This consistency is crucial for repeatable accuracy. The palm swell and thumb groove on the stock help with this.
2. Support Hand (Left Hand for Right-Handed Shooters):
Forend Support: The CZ 457 Varmint MTR has a large, flat forend with stippling, designed to be stable when resting on a bag or bipod.
Bag/Bipod Use: When shooting from a bench or prone, your support hand often works in conjunction with a shooting bag or bipod.
Rear Bag: The toe of the stock is somewhat slanted and flat, making it ideal for riding a rear support bag. Your non-firing hand can be used to squeeze or relax the rear bag for fine elevation adjustments.
Bipod: If using a bipod, your support hand can be placed over the rifle, applying gentle downward pressure if needed, or simply resting to maintain stability.
Minimal Pressure (if not using a bag for support): If you are free-handing or using minimal support, the support hand's role is typically to provide stability and perhaps some downward pressure to prevent muzzle rise. Some shooters describe imagining their firing hand as an extension of the gun, and their support hand as doing most of the gripping work. This frees the firing hand for precise trigger pull.
3. Overall Body Position and Fundamentals:
Consistent Cheek Weld: The comb of the stock is high, flat, and smooth, providing a good cheek rest. A consistent cheek weld is vital for repeatable eye relief and sight picture.
Shoulder Placement: The rifle should be comfortably nestled into your shoulder pocket. While the CZ 457 is a rimfire and doesn't produce significant recoil, a consistent shoulder placement helps manage any movement and maintain stability.
Natural Point of Aim: Regardless of your grip, strive for a natural point of aim. This means that when you are in your shooting position and relaxed, the rifle should naturally point at the target without muscular effort. Adjust your body position, not just the rifle, to achieve this.
Breathing and Trigger Control: These are fundamental to accurate shooting.
Breathing: Control your breathing, typically taking a breath, exhaling partially, and holding your breath during the shot.
Trigger Control: Smoothly and consistently press the trigger straight back, without jerking or anticipating the shot.
Key Design Features of the CZ 457 Varmint MTR that aid grip and shooting:
Vertical Pistol Grip: Promotes a more relaxed wrist and better trigger control.
Palm Swell and Stippling: Enhance comfort and provide a secure, non-slip grip.
Flat, Deep Forend: Offers excellent stability when used with bags or a bipod.
Slanted Toe of Stock: Ideal for fine elevation adjustments with a rear bag.
Match Chamber: Cut to tight specifications for optimal accuracy with high-quality ammunition.
Important Note: While the CZ 457 Varmint MTR is designed with right-handed shooters in mind due to the palm swell and thumb groove, left-handed shooters can still use it effectively, though some may find the grip less tailored to their hand.
Ultimately, proper grip placement on any rifle, including the CZ 457 Varmint MTR, is about achieving a stable, comfortable, and repeatable platform for consistent accuracy. Experiment with minor adjustments to find what works best for your individual shooting style and body mechanics.