CZ 550 and BRNO Rifles

[@gragrn]

CZ/Brno have always had a huge following in Australia. Built with the ruggedness of a military grade weapon but with the precision of a fine sporting rifle. Old school quality, something I've come to appreciate as I'm getting older.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great summary and all true. CZ should hire you - can't be more clear. : )

[@chasrmartel4777]

I bought a CZ 527 in 6.5 Grendel a few months ago. I'm completely sold on CZ. I've been popping steel gongs out to 600 yds in the desert for the last 4 weekends. It is just plain sweet! I've got a order in on a CZ 550 now in .375 H&H.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Chas - I keep hearing great things about the Grendel - I'm hoping to find a decently priced Howa Mini in that cal. Thanks for writing on your fine experience with rifle and cartridge.

[@ivanvasik4170]

Great information about cz brno

[@bsabes5750]

I own a CZ 550fs in 9.3x62 Mauser, and a 527 in 7.62x39, they have become two of my favorite rifles.

[@teppokuusisto144]

nothing but respect for Czechoslovakian and Czech Reb. weapons!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Awesome firearms from an awesome country.

[@Me2Lancer]

Thank you for your strong endorsement of CZ and BRNO. I hold their products in high regard as well. Most of my experience is with military Mausers they have produced. They have never disappointed.

[@mattedwards4533]

I have owned CZs that were almost as good as my Anschutz and a whole lot cheaper! They are very good rifles! I really appreciate your honest information on firearms! Thanks!

[@uncleremus5046]

I love the 550 way overbuilt & that’s how I like them!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good way to put it Uncle Remus - a thousand year gun for mortals who with luck, last a hundred.

[@randallanderson3079]

i own a couple CZ's and i think they are wonderful works. Thanks

[@rickbattle5706]

CZ is a very interesting manufacturer. I have been looking at several CZ models lately and your video just serves to keep my interest focused in the right direction. Many thanks!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hope you get 2 Rick : )

[@oncall21]

I have one in .458 Win Mag. They are built like a tank and mine holds five in the mag. Thanks for sharing.

[@vernshein5430]

I have a .375 602. I shortened the barrel to 20" for bush work. I had to have a lower front sight installed but now it shoots to POA with the 100 meter leaf at 100 yards with 270 gr Federals. I also removed the front sling stud and replaced it with a barrel band sling mount.

[@TechnikMeister2]

Its a long time ago, but when I went to university here in Australia in 1968 we would often go shooting in the neighbouring State Forests on the east coast. My friend had two BRNO rifles, one in 22LR and one in 243W. They were works of precision engineering then and are still today, 50 years later. The 243 has had one barrel change, the 22 has the original barrell. The blueing is still good and the action is still the same. The 243 still shoots a 2" group at 300m. What more could you hope for? In our bush the two biggest animals in coastal areas are the Kangaroo (not to be confused with the Wallaby, which is smaller and more plentiful), and the other is wild pig. Shooting the 243 with an 85gn expansion cartridge despatches both if shot in the right spot. I have retired now and having more time I am planning to purchase another 243 or 6.5. The latter is probably too much gun unless you live in the outback where feral camels do damage. And I can enjoy our sport within the rules and regulations that Australia seems to be villified for. Its just not so restrictive if you keep on the right side of the law, for which 99% of the population falls. Thank you for your short video.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Stephen! You've got a great life! I love being in Australia - 6 visits by now; some interesting laws but one can still do a lot of shooting. Those BRNOs are really something - every time I pick one up I can tell - it wants to go hunting : ) Thanks for the note mate!

[@Nick-wn1xw]

No such thing as "too much gun" my friend! Enjoy!

[@adamkadir3803]

6.5 for camels! Hahah that's a laugh. That's like saying you'd hunt an NT Buff with a 270. I'd much rather overgun than undergun. Also being a law abiding australian citizen, I find the laws are absurdly restrictive. But to each his own.

[@uralbob1]

I have purchased Three CZs, two 527s and one 550FS. All are terrific values. They stand up very well against anything from Remington or Winchester. They are the great, unknown bargain in all of shooting! My only gripe is that the bolt action can be a little stiff when new. All three of mine had this characteristic. When new, just sit back while watching tv, and work the bolt back and forth until your wife threatens to divorce you and she'll loosen up (not your wife, the CZ action).

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Robert - Thanks for the note - I didn't know that; a good thing for viewers to know. Mostly I buy used so the actions are probably broken in to some extent. Totally different firearm - but I've purchased O/U shotguns that were so stiff at first they were hard to open and close. A little Ballistol and time - and they loosen up. Thanks again and have a great weekend.

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis7302]

And has excellent express sights.

[@kennethbailey2616]

I’ve been thinking about CZs for quite some time. Great video as usual.

[@robinj.9329]

I really appreciate all of your videos. THANK YOU very much! You seem to be building a truly GREAT collection. BEST REGARDS! 🖒

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Robin - I keep trying : )

[@maxwelm7408]

I do have a CZ452 in .22lr and a 550 in .308 absolutely happy with them. The build quality is second to none. Only trouble I had with the 550 was the beautiful tiger stripe walnut hog back stock did not fit me so I had to change it to an American stock and it is perfect

[@sartainja]

I own a CZ 550. It is like a duck. You cannot help but smile when you hold it. The action works smooth as ice on tile. 👏 The rifle is built like a Sherman tank. I don't think you could destroy it. I would recommend the CZ 550 over most modern Remington or Winchester models. 👍

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Best expression I've heard in awhile : ) ...gives new meaning to "my favorite duck gun!" I agree about your CZ - if only all guns were so well made, so fundamentally sound. When I'm in deep snow, or hours in the wet or it is hot as, not Heaven...I'm reassured by a fine rifle like that.

[@kenthead2757]

Jeff Sartain well said buddy puts other manufacturers to shame you can't beat something built old school solid as a rock brilliant design i just hope the 557 models are good too fingers crossed

[@markcahoon2534]

I dont know which model it was, but I handled a new CZ in 30-06 the other day, and it had no guide rail with the claw extractor, so I handed it back. It looked like the Remington style bolt-head. The finish left a lot to be desired as well, but then, so did nearly all the manufacturers models. I am going to look for older second hand guns now. Thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Mark - I know what you mean and agree. I wrote the factory in Czechia about the new models; what made the old models special was that they were such superb Mauser system rifles. You are 100% correct - the new models just blend in with the rest of the push feeds. Nothing special, nothing better. Thanks for sharing the thought.

[@androna1919]

I love this rifles! Is it possible to remove the rear sight from the standard CZ 550? I removed the screws but it's still fixed. I'm assuming it's due to some adhesive, but I don't want to apply force in case it's welded to the barrel. Does anyone know how? Thanks!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello - Mike here - on mine I used a brass punch and tapped it off. Pretty tight fit. No solder on mine. You'll be able to tell if there is additional fastening on yours : too many taps with no movement and there may be something else holding it on.

[@androna1919]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns I'm very grateful. Thank you!

[@farleyjj1]

Just purchased a gently used CZ 550 Safari Magnum chambered in 375 H&H. A South Africa Safari is in the works, Lord willing. (Also taking a Ruger M77 RSI chambered in 30-06. Love your channels - Patreon subscriber)

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis7302]

Thank you! I have the very rifle,although in the Bavarian configuration and in 375 H&H,bought for walking in BIG Five country.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Rupert - you've go the life everyone wants. I'd take the BRNO as well - a tank and a Swiss watch - somehow - all in one great rifle.

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis7302]

Unfortunately I only get to Big Five country once every two years these days,at most.Only leopards occur in my area and they keep very much to themselves.

[@tozobozo4142]

I have a CZ 550 in .375 H&H that i carry unscoped still-hunting the deer/elk woods until about mid-November cos there is a very healthy grizzly population in my neighborhood. With its power and accuracy it is an extremely confidence inspiring rifle. You get used to the weight although it does spend a fair bit of time on top the shoulders for that reason. And when i switch over to my 1950 Savage 99 EG once the bears are denned it's like carrying a feather by comparison. I load 250 grain deer rounds in the .375 and with this bullet weight and commensurate middle of the road powder load i use there is almost no detectable recoil. I really like your clips, excellent taste in guns and excellent job, thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks again Tozo! You have a dream life : )

[@500asquare]

Nice vid thanks. A 550 LH in 375H&H bought it just just before they shut down production' Two BRNO 602's old parkerized finished and lighter than the 550 both converted, one in 416 other in 500AS BRNO's have double triggers .All are double square bridge mag. Mausers. The ultimate in perfection

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You were ahead of the game!

[@Jan-rr5hh]

I own 4 BRNO rifle's , 222Rem, 300Win Mag, 375 HH and 458 Win Mag. They are very reliable en very accurate. They are build to withstand anything Africa can throw at them !

[@randyschaff8939]

Nice 👍 that’s a good mix of calibres!

[@lukefoster3550]

I have cz550 in 270 Winchester. I love mine one of the most accurate rifles I’ve shot . I just hate Cz stopped making it . I hope to eventually find a Cz 550 in 300 win mag. Only thing at all I would change is it needs more choices for scope ring heights. It’s hard to find rings to bring the scope close to the barrel.

[@nightwave3782]

For being made in Europe CZ firearms replacement parts are reasonably priced compared to some of the other European firearms makers. CZ firearms are reasonably priced too

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I think so as well - very reasonably priced from initial purchase to parts.

[@nightwave3782]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns I priced replacement parts for Tikka and Sako and the parts are not cheap. Factory replacement stocks for a tikka run about $500.00 for walnut and the Sako replacement stocks about $600.00 for the walnut. CZ replacement stock in walnut for most is anywhere from $150 - $300.00 in most cases. Fancier ones will cost more but for the most part lot more reasonable than Sako or Tikka replacement parts. Sources of info Brownells, Beretta USA and CZ USA shop.

[@Mitchel141]

Hello sir I'm looking at the cz 550 or the sako 85 brown bear for a 450 rigby what would you recommend?

[@yuriys.6352]

Thanks!!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

My privilege.

[@ironDsteele]

How does a Dovetail mount hold a scope in place under this kind of recoil?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good question. The dovetail is steel and the base has an interlocking component on most dovetail systems. One of the best systems. Ruger uses similar. Hope this makes sense.

[@ironDsteele]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns I does- thanks for explaining. I'll add that it also looks far nicer than an obnoxious picatinny rail.

[@monooo5918]

Super video, you apsolute right sir. May brother buy before three yares ago cz 500 lux 7x64, it's made like tank! Best regards sir 👍

[@رضااحمد-ر7ح]

I have a old model brno,a powerful rifle with high recoil

[@Nick-wn1xw]

Great video on great rifles. The Rigby is truly a gentleman to shoot in this rifle. Much more pleasant to shoot to me than a 3” 12 gauge shotgun. Thank you.

[@JonDoe-dt9uz]

Can you PLEASE PLEASE do a review on the new CZ 557 rifle pleaseeeee

[@Drgunzo616]

My first CZ was a 452FS .22lr. Recently picked up a 527 in 7.62X39 and a 550FS in .243. I had sold a Marlin 1894 .44 mag trapper with 16" barrel and was looking to replace it with a .243. Looked at some rifles by CVA and Tikka but when I saw the CZ I had to have it. The combination of iron sights along with the full stock had everything I want in a hunting rifle here in Michigan. From deer to coyote I know it will serve me well. Sad iron sights are so hard to find on modern rifles. If something happens to your scope you just have a stick that makes loud noises.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello - You bought a superb rifle - as you know - rifles don't get better than what you have; just different. Good hunting and shooting.

[@tonyjones2742]

Thank you for sharing . Good review

[@hode22]

@usog can you review the BRNO Express either in 8x57 IRS or 9,3x74R ??

[@jonathanweber4820]

Hello, Have you looked at the ZG47 from BRNO? It is considered one of the best commercial Mausers out there. Thanks for providing such informative reviews!

[@asesinodezombis2077]

So lucky to grab one back in January. Sad to see this rifle company go away

[@bmphil3400]

Is the quality good? I have an older 527 in .223 that is really nice. I just bought a 550 in 416 off gunbroker and some of the quality control stories have me worried.

[@markr5132]

Awesome channel. Your knowledge is humbling. Not mention your direct and very respectful nature is all too rare in this mass media world!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Your kind words are much appreciated.

[@PietViviers-ce1ep]

Love my cz 550 308

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Excellent rifle!

[@lukefoster3550]

Have you had any experience with the custom shop Cz 550 in the nosler calibers . I have been eyeing a 28 nosler on buds . I wander how different the custom shop 550 is from the regular 550 . I don’t seem to be able to find any reviews on it .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Luke - sorry I don't know much except for what I read. Seems like a step up from what already is a first class manufacturer. As soon as I find one to buy I'll test and make a video.

[@243win3]

A request.... Review of the small arms guns of John Browning within a single video. Enjoying your channel immensely. Thank you.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Bryan, I'll try to get them together in one place at one time. Good idea!

[@patrickslevin6424]

I love CZ rifles....don't have any express rifles but have several 527's and another one in ,17 HMR.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You're buying rifles among the best - those 527s : remarkable.

[@psychodiagnostik]

Great video like always . I’ve always wondered why the front sling swivel is mounted to stock on those CZs instead of the barrel like other express rifles.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I heard they might discontinue these altogether - which would be another great loss.

[@tylergrant9785]

I have a cz-537 in 7x64. What are the differences between cz-537 & cz-550?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Tyler - Basically action details. Both are modified Mauser designs - and excellent.

[@nicolaspuelma2562]

Nice video. All your videos are very good. I got a Brno 98 in 270 (action and barrel) imported by EAA. Can you do a review of a Brno 98 please, what pedigree of the Mausers are they, are they better than the cz 550..?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Nicolas - Thank you for the kind words. The BRNO 98 is probably the best of the 98s - and the 550 is a wonderful rendition of the 98. For the big cartridges the 550 is hard to beat; overall though - the 98 is king.

[@nicolaspuelma2562]

​@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Thanks for your answer. Was more or less what I thought. Yes, the big 550 Safari that CZ offers now is a great product specially for the PH´s and hunters in Africa. Regards.

[@aaronbuckmaster7063]

I have longed to build my wildcats on that 550 Mauser type CZ action. I’ve just never gotten around to it. My fathers rifle has a drilled and tapped screw at the end of the forearm, into the barrel. That was an old idea to stabilize the barrel. All of those I’ve seen would always be torqued to 7 lbs. My fathers rifle shoots very well.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Aaron - That is interesting. I've never heard of that before. I may have seen screws so places and wondered what they were for though. Now I know : ) Thanks Aaron.

[@tyler7341]

Only downside to my cz 550 american safari is the sling stud should be mounted on the barrel.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good point Tyler.

[@tyler7341]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns keep doing what you're doing. I really enjoy all your videos. Have you ever thought about a winchester 1895

[@Waidman]

Oke sir, so i’m thinking of buying a new (2018 model) cz 557 lux 2 in 30-06 as my primary deer hunting rifle. I will top it off with a schmidt & bender klassik illuminated scope... this will be my first rifle, do you think this is a good choice?! Please sent me a pm... Best regards...

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Perfect choices. Rifle is superb and the scope too. Well done!

[@cdamauser1963]

557 are not controlled rd feed. Very sad, CZ has pretty much (seemingly) stopped selling 550 rifles with the trusty Mauser action.

[@martinvickers14]

I generally agree about how smooth and good the CZ rifles are. At an underground range in Kuwait I fired them them at 50 meters in .308 and .22 Hornet. They're lovely to hold and action, but underground I found the .308 report far too loud and the recoil unpleasantly harsh. The .22 Hornet, however, was smooth as silk and after 40 years I think I'm still a marksman, given a little warm up time.

[@tonyjones2742]

I own a VZ24 custom with a varmint 308 barrel and a ZKK 602 in 458 win mag. Both Brno made

[@BigO4185]

I just bought a New CZ 550 in 375 H&H magnum. One of the last rifles made! Only 22 new ones left in the USA

[@bmphil3400]

Does it shoot well?.....I just bought one off gunbroker and I have heard quality control stories.......

[@BigO4185]

@@bmphil3400 .5. Inch groups at 100 yards. Very happy. Now I have to find a good outfitter for Africa

[@bmphil3400]

@@BigO4185 mine is going to be overkill......it's in 416 Rigby....... My buddy asked me why I got it ....said he didn't think Polar Bears were a problem in the lower 48 If I ever go to africa or fishing coastal alaska I think it will be good piece of mind though.

[@BM-ru7ef]

When you get a chance, listen to the Big Game Hunting podcast interviews with Dr. Kevin Robertson, who was a veterinarian and professional hunter in Zimbabwe and South Africa for many years. I think it’d be right up your alley. You may already know about his books, The Perfect Shot, volumes I and II. Btw, I’ve been subscribed to your channel for probably almost seven years and really enjoy and appreciate all the content you put out.

[@tozobozo4142]

...by the way USOG, testament to the ultimate excellence of the BRNO (CZ) actions is the fact that when the bar-setting J. Rigby company of London couldn't get Mauser actions for their rifles, the action they substituted was the BRNO. Here's a link to an example of such a rifle on the Westley Richards site - a beautiful .416 Rigby with BRNO action. www.westleyrichards.com/usedguns/view/rifles/1532632778-j--rigby---co---416-rigby-bolt-action-rifle/

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Tozo - Fantastic action - and Rigby knows...appreciate the link.

[@RickNethery]

USOG Its sad the good old days of the African Safari May be coming to an end due to Africa's current political climate. But Myself like You I have always been fascinated by the Safari Rifle. I think of Jim Corbett, Karamojo Bell, and Ernest Hemingway when I see those rifles. God Bless You Sir, I hope You have a great Memorial weekend. 🇺🇸

[@john-paulsilke893]

Rick Nethery that would be a big mistake. Damn snowflakes are gonna bugger up the continent more then it is already. I’m kinda bothered by the image of the “great white hunter” and trophy hunting in general but it really is a good thing for conservation and economic growth. It’s win, win, win for everyone. A cheap Afrian hunt usually brings about $30,000 per head to the local economy which in turn goes towards conservation and welfare and protection. Not liking something is not a good reason to deny it to people willing to make the sacrifices involved in making their fantasies reality. (I still think an Afrian safari is a bit dumb, but I also love shooting big bore handguns and rifles at paper and watermelons which in reality is far dumber then spending a fortune to experience a buffalo hunt.)

[@frankdamsy9715]

John-Paul Silke I disagree. While it will never be at the same level as it was in the late 19th and early 20th century, I think that conservation efforts on the part of locals in the area are helping to make African hunting more accessible. While I've never gone myself due to not having the time, I many members of my family who don't fit the traditional sterotypes of an African hunter have gone, due to the greater accessibility.

[@RickNethery]

frank damsy Africa has changed, Your more likely to be killed by the locals and robbed than attacked by a wild animal.

[@frankdamsy9715]

Rick Nethery nah, its gotten better, atleast compared to the 90s and 00s, as long as you travel in a trusted safari you should be fine. Be smart, be aware, and be careful. If you do all that you should be perfectly okay according to my brothers who went last year to one in Namibia.

[@RickNethery]

frank damsy I will never be able to afford it but I have always wanted to hunt African plains game.

[@dxpvxo711]

Terrific video. I own this rifle, lots of fun

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great rifle to own. I keep hearing that they are going to switch to limited production; and then nothing changes. Oh well.

[@randyschaff8939]

Mike l have a 550 but not an owners manual. I need to adjust the trigger. I have been searching the internet and l also wrote to CZ in the Czech Republic.🇨🇦🤠

[@maineiacacres]

"...precision shot on a gopher, with a 416...." ROFL

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

: )

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

I once shot a groundhog head on with my .30-06, and the g-hog was instantly turned into nothing more than a badly tattered hide attached to a head and paws, but a .416 would probably turn a g-hog into vapor.

[@Idahoguy10157]

Unfortunately the CZ550 is no longer produced

[@edwardabrams4972]

Ya but I just bought a like new one for a super good price😳🙌

[@Idahoguy10157]

@@edwardabrams4972 … lucky dog!

[@Nick-wn1xw]

And as of February of this year the 550 magnum is dead as well. Wonder when the 527 will be cheapened up?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Slippery slope to bargain basement rifles. Thanks for the note.

[@john-paulsilke893]

I have never seen a “bad” CZ550. I have been suspicious for years about their quality since they are at least half the price of anything near as excellent. Unfortunately you got me all excited and my local shop has a 416 all sexed up and very well modified for extra slickness and ebony or buffalo horn details added by the gun smith owner. He wants $2,300 Canadian and it comes with 80rds and 20 brass which is near enough the cost of the ammo as to make the gun itself free.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

How can one resist!? : )

[@john-paulsilke893]

I couldn’t and didn’t. The wood was upgraded and it’s pillared and bedded as well, (I didn’t know). Came with a hard case and very nice rings as well. I was wrong about the price though, $2,800 Canadian but there are plenty of extras including a decent range finder and the old stock.

[@edwardabrams4972]

So I guess the 416 Rigby in the 550 that’s like new for $1,200. Is a good buy with 3 box’s of new ammo from Hornaday 😳

[@dangerousfreedom4965]

The front sling sling swivel on the CZ can hurt your hand when firing.

[@CandidZulu]

Brno rifles used to be expensive rifles way back in the 1950's and 60's. Today they are sometimes a bit to cheaply made to be useful right out of the box. But they still make excellent rifles with a bit of work. I particularly like how they offer different twist rates in some calibers!

[@Nick-wn1xw]

Don’t know what you’re talking about. I have three with ZERO work required. They break in. They get even better an smoother with use. It’s what a quality rifle is supposed to do.

[@kenthead2757]

Robert Underdunk Terwilliger mine owned bout twenty two years done nothing to it just ran it in properly thoroughly cleanef between each shot for first twenty shots destressed barrels these don't spray bullets all over the place when they get warm but try get varmint or heavy barrel in future gentlemen mine has slight crack in stock though but not bad for age still shoots like a dream going to get a hs presision varmint stovk for it soon worth the investment still

[@vinzalarms5079]

Nice weapon I love this

[@kevi152]

I own a 375 h&h cz 550 as well as a holland 375 . Both are excellent , yet I prefer the original Mauser 98 safety catch. I wish Cz had left it as it was originally.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree - every modification of the original design that I have seen has not been an improvement.

[@peteralexben]

Hello congrets with you channel .after using us guns .i got to chech guns .a cz 9 mm 75type hand gun( 85) and a zkk 602 in 458 win mag .that kan handle458 lott lenght cartidge . I am a cz fan

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

They're brilliant rifles

[@ekim000]

I have handguns and rifles made by CZ/Brno and they are outstanding performers.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

100% - brilliant company making brilliant guns.

[@bobgarr6246]

Keep it quiet. Let CZ be the real gun aficionados secret. Prices and availability will stay at levels to our benifet. Besides Germany, their really isn't a European firearms manufacturer that has the history, experience and skill to make rifles, pistols and shotguns of top notch design, quality and value at an affordable price and still get old world craftsmanship and hand fitting. Possibly Beretta, but they don't have an extensive centerfire rifle and .22 lineup historically. And are not really known to be affordable. Sweeden, Finland, Switzerland and Austria are top notch manufacturers, but they fall way short in comparison to the volume of products they put to market. Arguably the best automatic rifle of the Allies in WW2 the Bren design and it's original Brno counterpart were unequaled, in my opinion. But just look at a fraction of their designs : the Czech Scorpion machine pistol, the original in .32 ACP, the CZ - 53, the vaunted CZ - 75, the entire 500 line of rifles, centerfire and rimfire. The list is extensive for military and civilian firearms.They are without a doubt the best kept secret in the firearms industry, and I like it that way. To get an idea of how the Czechs feel about their firearms and the industry that builds them, consider this. While all of Europe is clamoring to restrict or eliminate private ownership of ALL types of firearms for the law abiding public. The Czech Republic not to long ago amended their constitution to include protective wording to assure and guarantee the rights of its citizens to own/bare arms. It says much of how they feel as a freedom loving people. The Czech Republic is likely the only place in ALL of Europe that I would consider living, and besides they make some great beer !!!

[@Nick-wn1xw]

And now CZ has quit producing the 550 Magnum. No more controlled feed rifles (except the 527) from CZ anymore.

[@leonschoots]

Thanks for another great video, I have a couple of Brno/CZ's and I do have a soft spot for them. I was wondering whether someone could make comment on the zkk 602 vs. the cz 550's. I'm looking at adding a 375 H&H to my collection but I'm not sure which way to go? Thanks

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Leon, The ZKK 602 is, as you know, a legend and I would buy that model above any subsequent model. I'll make a video soon. Thanks for the idea.

[@leonschoots]

Thanks a lot for taking the time to reply. I ended up purchasing a 1987 ZKK602 (same year I was born) and should receive it in the coming week. It has been pillar and glass bedded, a barrel band has been added and the old sling stud removed. I believe a shroud was made to fill in and round the bolt knob a well so even though it's not original I think the changes made are a plus. I look forward to your next video!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That rifle must be awesome! Great choice and nice mods.

[@leonschoots]

Hi @@UnitedStatesOfGuns I know this isn't CZ related but wondered whether you had any experience or opinion on the Mauser M12?

[@mehrdadrastegar2091]

Cz550 is best

[@randyschaff8939]

Yup bolt lift is minor detail.

[@burnsboysaresoldiers]

Is the cz a rifle that the bolt locks when on safe?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Brendon - I didn't go in the vault but I think so.

[@kenthead2757]

Brendon Burns depends on action model you can Google it but nevrr rely on safety if round is in action whether its cocked or decocked still a round in action but i don't rely on safety best to learn to cycle the action smooth and slow so you don't scare things when hunting thats why i prefer control round feeding on such actions as a cz550 ruger m77 old winchester model 70 varios muasers peter paul mauser designed the first mauser actioned rifle years before others made their respective rendition with their own ideas but the 550 action if you ever own one well my they just created something so well absolute masterpiece

[@steveg1667]

It depends I think on the year. The last CZ 550s with the full stocks had the three position safety. It had fire, safety with ability to open bolt then full safety with bolt locked down. My other older 550 with regular stock has just a two position safety where you have fire and safe. I like the three position in one way because when walking you can completely lock down the bolt from opening.

[@worddunlap]

Very much German/Austrian influence but considering the geography and history it is no surprise.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

So true - the fruit never fall far from the tree. : )

[@mdirtydogg]

It's a shame they won't be producing these rifles anymore. My guess is that their machinery finally gave up the ghost and they do not see it worthwhile to invest in new machinery. Who will produce budget friendly big bore rifles now I wonder.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I didn't know they were discontinued. The alternatives are many but as you note - very high priced. Someone will come along though - there is a market.

[@mdirtydogg]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns, when I first heard that, I wrote to CZ folks. I got a surprisingly fast reply confirming that. Let's hope someone else will step in to fill the void .

[@shawnwells5719]

The 416 Rigby is intentionally inefficient. It produces its ballistics at pressures that ensure positive extraction in African heat. The efficient 416s, like the Remington, match the Rigby's ballistics with 10,000 psi more pressure and the extraction problems that can cause in hot climates.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Shawn. I'll take the Rigby every time 👍

[@chippyjohn1]

They don't make the 550 anymore, they have gone to a cheaper push feed action driven by the US market. The USA ownership of the company has ruined them. I hate that their rifles all have USA Kansarse city stamped on them now, it shouldn't be that way. Looking for a used 550 now in 6.5X55.

[@Drgunzo616]

My brother has a 550 in 6.5 Swede.. It's beautiful.

[@edwardabrams4972]

Bought my son a like new 550 in the 416 Rigby and at a super price and 3 box’s of Hornaday dangerous game ammo for $1,200.

[@theduke1833]

Hey brother your videos are labeled backwards

[@ashtonburgess9569]

All cz seems to make are 22 and these big calibers why nothing I between?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

They manufacture all kinds of rifles in various calibers. Which calibers did you have in mind? You could have a look here cz-usa.com/ or write me : )

[@kenthead2757]

ashton burgess look around a bit harder don't just believe the gun store salesman he just wants you to purchase one of what he's got in store if you are after quality like on par with styre and tikka sako well worth ordering a cz I'm gonna get another one hopefully a model 550 action ad i prefer control round feed like a ruger m77 action not like a push feed howa or remington just my choice worth doing research enjoy shoot safe and hunt well by from australia cheers cz lovers

[@kierandillon7696]

looking for a trigger kit for the 243

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Sorry I don't know how to help with that.

[@kenthead2757]

whats wrong with your trigger if you don't like the cz one try timney triggers or a shillen one both after markets well made too

[@lenoxchew4732]

How about a zastava 30.06

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Lenox - top flight rifle and cartridge - I think I made a video. Maybe was a .270 - I'll check.

[@i.o.3563]

Amazing rifle for the price. I don't understand why hunters buy those in big calibres, though. Trackers, PHs - ok, but hunters. If you travel to Africa for big five, you're a wealthy man, for sure. Why not indulge yourself with something more expensive than your shoes?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Interesting thoughts - I think a lot of people like shooting the big guns at the range despite the recoil - and hope to get to Africa one day. Sort of a step toward a dream : )

[@i.o.3563]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns yeah, you're probably right. Recoil is the key here. That's the reason why people actually want to shoot it. That what makes it more fun. But, it's not that bad, if the rifle is properly fitted and the shot knows how to shoulder the gun. Come to think of it, it's really strange how little attention rifle fit actually is getting throughout the hunters society. Quite an important thing. Shooting a nicely fitted rifle is so much more comfortable and efficient.

[@yuriys.6352]

Have you seen Merkel KR1 Jena?🤔

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Very interesting and fine rifle. I had a chance to buy one in .308. I like the trap door for the magazine; reminds me of an improved Mauser 66. If I find one I'll make a video for sure - definitely a special design. Thanks for mentioning.

[@MumblesMarbleMouth]

Someone who says Brno correctly! I can't stand it when someone says "Bruno"

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Jake - thanks - I'm sure I get other pronunciation wrong though. : )

[@MumblesMarbleMouth]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Oh probably same here. Only difference is, there really is no excuse to say Brno wrong as its spelled exactly how it sounds but people like to add a U in there. Id forgive someone for saying Voere wrong.