If you could only have a CZ 550 or a Ruger 77 in 458 win mag which would you choose and why??

Would ream the CZ to Lott and be happy, but they are a bit heavy for a 458WM.

CZ. It holds 5 rounds of .458 ammo.

Very different rifles. The original Ruger 458 Win was built on the M77 tang safety model. While not a true CRF that purists demand for a DG rifle, IME it's a reliable rifle that has fed all types of ammo I've used in it so far. This rifle was built on the standard-length M-77 action.

Ruger did offer a 458 Lott in their RSM Magnum model, a true CRF rifle in the Express pattern. This one was expressly designed for the 375 H&H length cartridges, and offered in the 375 H&H, 416 Rigby & 458 Lott. There may have been plans for a 404J, but unfortunateky it didn't make it to production. IME, at least in the 458 Lott, the RSM a very capable DG rifle. If I ever get a chance at another - in either 416 Rigby or 458 Lott - I'll snap it up.

I have no experience with the CZ, so can't comment specifically on it. It is a CRF, that I believe is built on a long action patterned after the Mauser 98.

Figured it would take at least 2 posts before someone said ream it to a Lott.

With good handloads with AA2230, the 458WM is plenty.

I wouldn't go Lott unless you like that specific cartridge. It won't be less than the 458WM, but won't make any practical difference. I like both.

If I need more the 500NE 3" DR with solids gets the call.

No question: CZ!

If I understand the choice is a CZ550 magnum or an old Ruger 77 tang safety. I have both and the CZ is a better gun, reasons given.

I also have the Ruger RSM and that is (IMHO) the equal of the CZ. I give an edge to CZ (if properly tuned up) due to added fire power. Out of the box, the Ruger RSM was more reliable which trumps everything else. I felt the later RSM with 23" barrel handled pretty nice too. Mine is older 24" hvy barrel. Dampens the recoil nice, but heavy. The cz barrel is a bit too long at 25 inches.

The 458 vs Lott is another story. The lott obviously (IMHO) has the advantage but probably not as important as some other factors. Some of those factors would favor a 416 for the assumed intended purpose. The win mag being smaller does work out better for North American hunting with somewhat reduced loads. The old 77 would be a fine choice event though I think the CZ is better. A plus for casual shooting with the Ruger 77 is some had really nice wood. I love mine just on looks alone.

fourbore- "The cz barrel is a bit too long at 25 inches." Way to long IMO. CZ should provide buyer with a red flag to tie onto the muzzle like an overly long load hangin' out the back of a pickup bed. Homesteader

TFF

I know. .....

An alternative is order one from the cz custom shop in st loius and they will fit the barrel length / weight of your choice and there are other options. I got one that way, it do cost more though.

Or get it chopped.

Another option is have it re-worked and upgraded by AHR (American Hunting Rifles). I found a used example on the rack and took it home. They do good work. Does that make a CZ better than a Ruger 77? Or just mean you get what you pay for?

The Winchester Model 70 is nice gun too. Was that one already mentioned. Right off the shelf in OP's desired 458. The barrel is no longer 22". No idea why if got stretched to 24? Still a great gun and priced fairly.

Magazine length is about 3.750", WM rounds swim in there. Reaming to Lott also removes some of the excessive throat taper of the WM chamber and the extra cartridge volume doesn't hurt when working up loads either.

THIS^^^^^^^^

Exactly what I did.

If you're thinking of the old tang safety Ruger, I have no idea. But if you're talking about a RSM in 458 Lott.. That is a truely fine rifle... I have 3, in Lott, 3 in Rigby, and a 505 Gibbs that is scary accurate when I do my part... it will make clover leaf 3 shot groups at 50 yards shooting both 525 grain TSX and banded solids!

On looks and real value, can't beat the RSM!

The CZ is a great gun as well but it can be hit and miss on how they feed and function out of the box.. AHR has a great reputation of fixing them right. And IMHO, the CZ has less felt recoil.. It is bigger and fills your hands better. And of course it holds the most rounds... I would bet a 458 Lott in a CZ or the old BRNO is the most common bolt gun carried by PH's in Africa.

Have to agree for the price and out of the box function, you can't beat a new M70. If you want to hunt with a 458 win mag, take a look at the balistics of a 416.. Equal or more ft pounds, better trajectory. Not that a 458 win mag won't do!

I would take one of the newer CRF Model 70s over both. Stainless synthetic model would be most desirable.

I have the Ruger RSM in 375, 416 & 458 Lott. 375 is a bit heavy, 416 & 458 feel just right. All are very accurate. Never had a feeding issue with any of them. CZ looks great, but I'll hang on to my Rugers.