Sub-$500 Scope+Rings suggestions for a CZ 457 Noob

StefanGreybeard

StefanGreybeard

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I'm planning to pick up a CZ 457 as my first gun to learn to shoot on. I'm not sure how much I'll be using it for hunting, but I definitely plan to put plenty of rounds through it at the range (and maybe try some longer-range shooting).

However, I'm lost on optic choices. From what I've read, 6-24x seems to be the suggested magnification for target shooting due to how small .22 holes are, and having a parallax adjustment is useful for close-range hunting. I've seen positive comments about all sorts of scopes, and the Arken EPL4 and Busnell Elite 4500 looked great at $500, until I realized that rings (and potentially an MOA rail) could add $100 or more to the cost. So now I'm thinking Athlon or Riton, but I'm really not sure.

I'd greatly appreciate any comments and suggestions for a scope setup (including rings/rail) for no more than $500 (pre-tax).
 
Stefan - For on a 22 You can go with Amazon rings as long as you don't use the scope as a carry-handle. I have several on 22s that way. As for scopes, look on the EE. There are all sorts on the 'under $2000' listing that are ca $3-500 and NO Tax. I have a couple Athlons that are were good deals. Look for FFP so it will be good for various distances - you'll want to shoot 'long' someday.
 
Yeah, I've been keeping my eye on the EE. However, so far, it seems like the savings to be had are pretty limited (at least in my price range), as many of the sellers seem to be basing their prices on retail prices that are significantly higher than what I'm finding online. Sure you save the tax, but you also lose out on returns and warranty (don't you)?

As for rings - I've seen some posts suggesting that with the 457 you need a MOA rail to adjust the scope angle if you want to shoot past 100m. Is that true?
 
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It depends on the scope you choose. Pay ATTENTION to the TOTAL MOA of a scope, then go for about 1/2 or less MOA for a rail for distance. And 'real long shots' may call for more MOA on the rail ? I'm not sure since I can only shoot ca 200 or less. Try to talk with 'long-range' shooters at your club. My Athlon Argos 8-34x56 FFP Only has 40-ish MOA TOTAL so I needed 20MOA going out to 175, and I had to rely on 'hold' at 20X to see the target at that distance. 34X reduced the visible reticle too much to see the target. I DIDN'T PAY ATTENTION TO THE SPECS when I bought the scope, and wasn't aware of the "1/2 MOA " guideline. It cost em $175 for Burris XTR rings, but better for the distant option than changing scopes OR changing Rails. YMMV - BE CAUTIOUS.
 
Check the Vortex Diamondback HP 4-16 x 42 with BDC reticle at Cabela's for $549. They're often on sale for $449, $100 off.

ht tps://www.cabelas.ca/product/83256/vortex-diamondback-hp-1-riflescope

Some turn their noses up at Vortex, but I have 2 of these and they've both been solid in the several years I've owned them.

Clear bright glass, lifetime warranty whether you're the original owner or not.

I think they have 70 minutes of elevation, 35 on each side of center. Check that to be sure, I'm working from memory.

I've used mine at 200m on a .22 with 32 minutes of elevation dialed in.
 
MOA base depends on your scope. Like my old Tasco 8-32x44 won't zero at 100, without a 15 moa insert. That scope with my Burris rings requires a 20 moa insert on another gun.

I like BKL and Burris Zee Signature scope rings for dovetail. The Burris you can get up to 30 moa adjustment.
 
That CZ will have no issue shooting out to 100 yards and beyond if needed. That said .22lr at 100 yards can really help a shooter work on skills like breathing, trigger control, spotting wind and the likes. 24 power is nice at 100 yards when trying to look at bullet holes. That said more magnification in a cheaper optic doesn't always help as the glass isn't always the best. As someone else mentioned there are a few Athlon Argos Gen 2s that have quite a few reviews online within your budget range. (Ultimate Reloader I believe does a video on the 8-32 power scope that is quite in-depth)

I have shot 100 Yard and 200 Yard rimfire with a 20 power scope and while it worked at 100 it wasn't the best at 200. I had to keep checking the shot placement with a spotting scope which isn't the best when trying to shoot groups as you have to reset every time. I would recommend a 24 minimum if you're going to be spending lots of time shooting at 100 yards. If you're likely to reach out only on occasion and want to practice at 50 then a 16 or an 18 would be just fine.

One other thing to keep in mind is parallax adjustment is key on a .22lr so you can still shoot at the closer distances like 10 or 20 yards. Most of the Athlons will go lower but not sure about the others. Most companies make a scope that you can get new or used in that budget.

Rings on aren't to bad. I personally like the Burris rings with the inserts and they can add more cant if needed. I would also recommend going with a 30mm tube optic there just seems to be more options in that size these days especially on the used market. I run ATRS Ultra Lite Rings because I prefer the design but not needed at all on a 22lr. An honestly unless you got cash to burn not needed either. (I rotate my rings and scopes around through all my rifles so I try to have rings that can handle anything from .22lr to 338 RCM.

As for a rail just find one on sale that fits. I have an MDT, Area 419 and Salmon River Solutions across my rifles and really they all work and do the same thing. So just find one from a reputable brand that fits.

Keep in mind this is just my personal preference. An one other thing is you could maybe swing a deal on a rail and rings if you buy the rifle instore at a smaller shop they are sometimes willing to work with you more so than a big box store.

Cheers,
B
 
The comment about using your scope as a handle speaks volumes.
The Leupold ring mounts are fine for starters but are for one inch scope tubes.
Next up is a pica tinny rail that will allow 30 mm tubes.
The day of a $500 rings scope combinations that yield satisfaction is quickly disappearing.
With the 457, the value of the rifle equaling the optic's value is probably more realistic
 
Currently… I would recommend a bushnell Nitro. They are available at several retailers for great prices.(Dante sports)
Should leave you with over $100 for a decent set of rings.
I actually am using cheap Amazon westhunt rings that seem
To be great quality and won’t be an issue shooting rimfire.

Good luck.
 
Horseman - I often see 'new shooters' doing that, like it's a AR-15 "Carry-Handle" :p
Stefan - One thing I want to mention. If you're shooting targets you may want to have Numbers on the reticle ! I bought a Busnell Engage for my First Hi-Mag scope and was disappointed when using the 'bars' for holding Elev & Wind - You have to look carefully to 'count the bars' and the wind will surely change while you're counting :rolleyes: I ordered that online so the reticle 'looked OK' but I didn't realize how small the bars were. That's why I recommend to anyone to get the reticle with numbers, be it MIL or MOA. The Athlon scope I have has a number on every 4th bar, that's a great help. When spending $###$ You need to pay attention to details.
 
I did send the OP a pm but figured I might as well post here for those reading this thread. Two good options. Tasco Varmint 6-24 from scopes and ammo. It was very cheap but much better than expected. Used it for about 6 months shooting from a bench. Sold it to purchase a gently used Hawke 6-24 Vantage. Both are entry level scopes but the Hawke is a little clearer than the Tasco so its the one I went with. The thing about big optics under $500 is you probably wont be happy. Due to this I looked at the Bushnell engage and nitro line. They were ok but wanted more. If you want more you need to spend 1K + for over 12x. For somebody like me who wants to put their rilfe on a set of bags and not be to rough with it I am happy. For rings I chose amazon tanyione medium they worked perfectly and are rather robust for the price. The Hawke airmax line is also very good.
3xSHVo3.jpg

BTW - mine is actually a Varmint that was later re-branded under the Vantage line.
You may be best to do some research into warranties and look on the used market like me.
 
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Not "sub-$500 Scope-Rings" for the Argos. 8-34x56 FFP Scope alone will run ca $550+ depending on 'sale prices', shipping and taxes at your location. Rings depend on the rifle and use planned, maybe need a XX-MOA rail, too ?
 
So I'm seriously considering the Riton X1 Conquer 6-24x50mm. Several shops have it listed around $250.

Question: Will 3/8" (9.5 mm) dovetail rings work properly on the CZ 457? I've seen some shops listing rings with this size of dovetail for the CZ 45X series, but CZ's documentation states the dovetails are 11mm.
 
Stefan - That scope is a good one for starters. With 67-MOA Total it should be good for you out to 100-150-yds, and I've read good accounts of those scopes. I would NOT try to use the 3/8" rings unless you measure the dovetails on your rifle. Some rifles have come to N-A with SAE doves instead of Metric, so I'd verify what is on the rifle before purchasing rings. You might be able to get them to fit on BUT the ANGLE of the dove-cut and 'tail' on the rings might not match. I've read about that occurring.
 
StefanGreybeard said:
So I'm seriously considering the Riton X1 Conquer 6-24x50mm. Several shops have it listed around $250.

Question: Will 3/8" (9.5 mm) dovetail rings work properly on the CZ 457? I've seen some shops listing rings with this size of dovetail for the CZ 45X series, but CZ's documentation states the dovetails are 11mm.
Click to expand...

No. 11mm is required. Decent amount of options that will work for this. Warne rimfire rings work on both 3/8" and 11mm, as you can flip one side of the clamp to accommodate both sizes.
 
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Cabelas wild Wednesday does have a 5-25 covenant on sale. They are cheap and supposedly made by Vortex. However if you’re on a budget I’ve heard good things from a fellow at the range who runs a 4-16 on his rimfire rifle (I believe a CZ as well)

B
 
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