CZ 452 or 455 vs Browning T-Bolt Sporter

L

legendaryaxe

New member
EE Expired
Rating - 100%
2   0   0
Would you recommend the CZ 452 (or 455) or the Browning T-Bolt Sporter? The T-Bolt is obviously faster, but then again, I've got a lever-action if I want speed. I'd love to know why (accuracy, looks/craftsmanship, reliability, etc) you'd choose one over the other, especially if you've shot both. Thanks.
 
Last edited:
I own both a CZ 452 in Varmint and Style configurations and a T-Bolt Varmint Thumbhole.

I recently (last weekend) did an accuracy test on the two. Both have Tasco 6x24x42 scopes, both used RWS Target Rifle and SK Standard Plus and both were shot at the same target style at 50 yds.

Both shot to similar performance (sub MOA / 1/2") but the T-Bolt was a little bit more consistant (possibly due to the heavy barrel).

My best 5 rd group was 0.268" with the T-Bolt and the same gun did a 0.517" group. Best 5 rd group with the 452 was 0.376" but was averaging 0.475" for most of the day.

Both have their advantages and disadvantages (trigger pull is heavier and not as easily adjustable on the T-Bolt, scope must be mounted higher on the 452 due to bolt throw, dovetails on 452 vs. bases on T-bolt, two action screws on T-Bolt vs barrel and action on 452, nice 10 rd mag on T-bolt vs. single stack on 452).

The Browning is more expensive but looks and shoots really well. Not to mention the straight pull bolt is really, really slick.

It'll be a real toss up for which one to choose. Get both!
 
Thanks for the info, DSN. One thing I've heard a few people on different forums say when comparing the CZ's (452, 455) with the Browning (T-bolt Sporter) is that the weight of the Browning is VERY light...so much so that the gun doesn't feel like a "real" gun (they're speaking about looks and feel -- not accuracy) . They've also mentioned that the wood is not of the same quality as that found on the CZ's. Being that you have both, I was wondering if you could you shed any light on this...? Thanks again. :)
 
I had the T-Bolt for over a year and after trying many different types of higher grade ammunition I decided it was not as accurate as I would like and traded it. The T-Bolt is factory bedded but has very small action bolts and very dainty internals. The quality of the wood/metal finish is great

I may have chosen a CZ 452 before I bought the Browning but the stamped trigger guard looked so cheap, although now there are options to have them replaced by machined versions. My only CZ is a 512 semi which comes with a 5lb + trigger. The 512 is a shooter despite the trigger, and it is very durable. I will be looking at a 455 or 455 Varmint in the future, I think I learned the hard way that CZ's are tough to beat...
 
I have all 3...
Just that if you want the accuracy, get the 452 ( they no longer are doing it ) so 455.
You won't be disappointed. out of my 3 CZ's, the worse one is a .75 - 1" grouping on one of them @ 50m. the other two does 1/2" or better.
Nice finished, nice wood stocks compare to T-bolt. Action can be a bit rough in the beginning, but will be butter after.
In fact, get the 453 with the set trigger.

If you want a ultra light weight synthetic gun, get the T-bolt but give up the sure accuracy. It's got good features and is sure handy. Made well, but just can't achive the accuracy. The best i have done out of my T-bolt is about 1"
 
I went through this about 8 months ago. I chose the CZ455 because I didn't appreciate all the plastic on the T-Bolt. Otherwise, I had a hard time deciding as I like the T-Bolt mag design & action.

I don't regret my choice, CZ makes a very nice rifle.
 
Fewer plastic parts at a lower price makes the CZ a better value to me. A plastic trigger guard is not something I am willing to accept on a rifle that costs as much as a T-Bolt.
 
I have a T-Bolt in 17HMR. Very accurate, interesting and functional magazine design and bolt, all around good rifle except the trigger is terrible. Synthetic stock version has a spot in the butt to hold the spare mag or just one mag if you have it in a vehicle and can't have a loaded gun.

I've only had the CZ in a 22lR. Better trigger, though not great, but can be easily modified. For range use and punching holes in paper, perhaps I'd pick the CZ. For hunting, the T-Bolt hands down. There are some T-Bolts floating around with really nice wood as well, if you're not into synthetics.

Basically, the downside of the Browning is the trigger, the lightest I could get it was 4 lbs.

Prices have dropped recently as well. I bought mine from DelSelins(site sponsor) for $470 plus fees. It had the digi-camo stock, which I painted black.
 
Have the 452 lux, 453 varmint, T-bolt varmint. 452 with fixed sights and high bolt lift requires high rings but with Euro heel not an ideal setup. The 453 trigger is fully adjustable and has adjustable set trigger and without sight takes scope better. YoDave trigger kit for $20 or so transforms 452 trigger and provides broader range of adjustment. Both excellent shooters. The mag wells are plastic and one required replacement. Mags are generally plastic, can sometimes find metal ones. With STD velocity rounds shoot sub moa at 100m.

T-bolt is slick to cycle. Plastic mags work well but durability of lips suspect and cost at least double CZ mags. Plastic trigger adjustable for weight (trigger guard also plastic). Overall quality disappointing for Browning and price. Shoots well enough, high velocity works better than standard but the 452, 453, TC R55, and custom 10/22 out shoot it (initially was disappointed with accuracy shooting std velocity and would not have considered it a keeper but then switched to HV ammo and good enough). Like it for its slick action, good mag system, spare mag in butt, very light / maneuverable, and I do not abuse my gear so lower quality level not a concern in terms of durability. Also, the CZs have too beautiful wood for me to use in the field.

The American and varmint versions handle differently so should try both before ordering but would pick one of those up before the T-Bolt. Would consider the T-Bolt a good field gun (works well with Burris Fulfield II 3-9 BP) and the CZs target guns.
 
Thanks for all the responses, guys. I finally got into a gun shop and took a look at the guns (and felt and fondled them...:) ) The CZ felt stronger and more durable...all business, but handsome (stock, bluing, etc) whereas the T-Bolt felt a little "toy-like" somehow. I'm picking up a CZ 455 (lefty) in the next couple of days. Thanks again for helping me in my decision.
 
I picked up a CZ 455 awhile back.

Just using Federal Gold ammo, I can usually group around 1/4 inch at 50 yards. Can't say much about the Browning, as I haven't tried one out, but CZ makes a DEADLY accurate rifle! No plastic anywhere except the mag... Quality is very nice.

The T-Bolt sounds pretty decent. But I'm thinking it would be pretty difficult to beat my CZ
 
I think you made the correct choice. I have the light-barrel version of both of these guns, and if I had to sell one it would be the T-bolt. I keep it only because of the neat straight-pull action, which allows it to serve as a rimfire understudy for my Blaser rifles. In terms of perceived quality of construction, accuracy, or general "feel" I think the CZ is far superior.

John
 
I read this a little too late, but good choice on the CZ 455.

Im a big fan. The 452 have slightly better iron sights IMO ( but if your going to scope it, then its a moot point), but the 455 is the updated version of that model and it just looks nicer, especially the checkering.

I have a CZ 455 Lux, and its my absolute fav and most accurate rim-fire in my collection.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom