The rifle is probably quite capable of the challenge, but the fact that it's light weight, paired with a lower power scope isn't helping your cause. It doesn't take much pressure to throw a shot wild enough to be outside the group size you need.
I have a 452 Varmint that's a nail driver. It often turns in 5 shot groups under .5" at 50, but I'm not consistent enough to get 25 shots downrange without throwing a couple in the process. I've had a few 50 yd targets that would probably qualify using the CZ, but didn't bother submitting them.
When you have a group that's .490"-.495", it leaves room for "interpretation" that I'm not interested in entertaining.
The 1407 that I did the challenge with is an entirely different creature. Much easier to shoot, seriously heavy. This is what it was meant to do, produce small groups reliably with minimal effort on the shooter's part.
I'm no great wizard as a shooter, and the Anschutz makes easy work of a contest like this. The 1/4" club would be a good challenge for it in the hands of a better shooter. It's turned in groups under .25", but never 5 in a row under my guidance.
For your 452 American, you could try more magnification, if you have another scope that would suit. You can't hit what you can't see.
Or, if you don't have another higher-magnification scope already, why not just enjoy the rifle for what it's meant to be?
A light weight, easy carrying, accurate rifle is a joy to use, plus the CZ is really easy on the eyes.
I sold a 455 American with gorgeous tiger striped wood a couple years ago, some days I wish I had it back.
I'll let us get back on topic now
