Originally Posted By Warbird_Aficionado:
Hey all,
I've been bit by the precision 22 bug and find myself in need of a bolt action 22lr.
The two rifles I'm interested in currently are the Ruger American Target model and the CZ 455 Precision Trainer. I'm specifically drawn to the RAR due to compatibility with 1022 mags and lower initial cost.
To be 100% satisfied with the RAR Target, I would need to eventually change the stock. My question is, what have you all come across as far as aftermarket stocks available for this rifle? My web searches so far have come up empty.
Thanks all for the help.
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I have both. Two CZ455's (American & Varmit Thumbhole Laminated Fluted-now discontinued) and recently picked up a Ruger American Rimfire Target (RART). After some range time I'm leaning to the RART being a little better. It's really nice and accurate and the trigger is the easiest to fine tune DIY to a real nice light trigger vs. the CZ's.
Regarding stocks Boyds offers two stocks that will make the RART abit more tacticool.
AT-One Stock & Pro-Varmit
The Pro-Varmit stock seems to be mentioned more on Rimfire Central than the AT-ONE.
The Boyds appears to be easy to fit for a bull barrel. One gent stated..." the barrel channel needed sanding to fit. I used a 3/4 inch broom handle wrapped with 120 grit sand paper, till the barrel was free in the channel. Took less than 30 minutes to finish the job." So in doing that you should be able to do that on your own.
I really can not agree that the CZ has a stiffer action and better OEM barrel. The RAR receiver is just as substantial as the 455 and the Ruger barrel is also CHF. Plus, the RART trigger is much superior to the CZs out of the box trigger.
When you do a DIY trigger job on the RART its much a much better trigger than the frustrating Mr. Fly CZ trigger. Then you can adjust it easily with the factory adjustment screw to fine tune it. I did the DIY job on mine and made a substantial improvement and I haven't even used the adjustment screw yet. Having worked on my CZ it's a much easier job on the RART.
I replaced the RART factory optic rail with a DIP extended rail (you can get 0 & 20 MOA) and a muzzle device to replace the factory thread protector, and it makes it look better.
Considering the universal availability of 10/22 mags and that their 10 rd. vs. 5 rd. with the CZ455 (I know you can get 10 rders), the much better DIY trigger vs. having to go with trigger spring kits with the CZ, and the initial lower cost the RART is a bit better than the 455 IMO.
Note the CZ455 Tacticool stock is a Boyds Pro-Varmit.
My .02