Rifles of the Czech Republic - CZ and Brno
First, we need to understand a little geography. A visitor from Hungary was kind enough to provide this information. There are two large manufacturers of firearms in the Czech Republic. CZ (and ZKK for that matter) are made in Ceska Zbrojovka (Czech Armory) in Uhersky Brod, Czech Republic. Zbrojovka Brno (Armory Brno) is a different manufacturer of fine firearms also in the Czech Republic. This tends to confuse even collectors when it comes to figuring out when and where your Curio and Relic CZ50 or CZ52 pistol or Curio and Relic VZ24 rifle was made.
CZ 550 Safari Magnum
Here is a catalog description and technical data for the CZ 550 Safari Magnum from several years ago. "Known world wide as the 602 Brno, the CZ 550 Safari is a true full sized Magnum, not a smaller action blown out to barely hold the cartridge with only 2 rounds in the magazine, the Safari can hold 4 Rigby's in the magazine! Features include Express sights (1 standing, 2 folding), hammer forged barrel and single set trigger. The stock is made from select Turkish walnut and has a classic safari shape. The controlled round feed and fixed ejector make this rifle reliable enough for Heavy and Dangerous game."
Technical data: Model CZ 550 Safari Magnum, Stock/Grip Express rifle, Caliber .375 H&H, .416 Rigby, .458 Win. Mag. Magazine cap. 3-5, Overall length 1180mm (46.46 in.), Barrel length 635mm (25.00 in.), Weight 4200g (9.3 lbs.), Barrel - Hammer forged, Trigger - Single set, Sight/type - Express (1 standing 2 folding).
Darin Peterson, the owner of The Armory in Mesquite, Texas (972-285-1288), was kind to provide some comments on the current production CZ rifles. First, he notes that CZ rifles are the most widely used brand of rifle in Africa. Second, he states that every CZ Safari magnum that has passed through his store has had beautiful wood, a flawless, smooth action, and outstanding accuracy. He also noted that the rifle is intended to be used with the express iron sights, but it is not uncomfortable to shoot with a scope installed. CZ also offers an American style stock that is just like a Winchester or Remington. As for the trigger, out of the box the single set trigger is usually a bit squishy and heavy, and while the trigger is a bit complicated to adjust, it is fully adjustable for weight of pull, over travel, and take up. The adjustments apply to both the set trigger and standard trigger (you don't have to use the set trigger). CZ rifles also now come with swivel studs and not permanent swivels. Thanks for the information, Darin!
