About 4 months ago I bought a new CZ550American in 9.3x62 here in the UK. It was a special order but arrived very quickly.

However after running about 50 or 60 rounds through it, I noticed the bolt had a tendency to "lock up" if you tried to cycle it quickly and also the pressure point in the forearm seemed a bit suspect.

I could have probably had both these items fixed, but I believe that in doing so, you only allow the manufactors quality to drift downwards.

Knowing that I would face a possible lengthy process I returned the rifle to the retailer who passed it back to the importer who in turn sent it back to CZ "for repair"..

After about a month I recieved an email stating they would replace the rifle under the warrenty and one would be sent out to the importer with the next consignment...The next consignment actuall took about 2 1/2 months to arrive but today I picked up my new rifle!

The stock although quite plain is very pleasing to the eye and the fit and finish seem better than the previous one.

Also the rear cross bolt has been moved forward slightly and is now more or less directly over the floorplate release catch. On the previous rifle it was about an 1" further to the rear and kinda looked "wrong".

The bolt on this one cycles properly although it still feels a little rough, but nothing that won't wear in.

The muzzle also appears to have a resessed target crown which I never noticed on the previous rifle???

All in all, it was well worth the wait; I will load up a few roads now and hopefully take it out over the weekend and see how she shoots.

Regards,

Pete

Pete, as a new CZ fan, I'm interested in all things they do. Please keep us informed of how your new rifle performs.

I noticed on my new CZ carbine that the bolt rails felt a little rough inside the action. Odd that CZ should polish everything else up so nicely and omitt this.

But as you suggest, I think a little normal use will do it for us. I'm wondering if the polishing of these rails might not be "enhanced" by the addition of some graphite? This should have the immediate effect of making it feel smoother, but also a very mild abraisive for the long road as well.

Anyone ever try such a thing for polishing??

Midway sells a tool designed for polishing action rails for about $20.00 USD. You wrap some fine abrasive paper on it and can easily polish the rails. Works fast. Don't get too frisky with it. I use it on a lot of factory rifles.
Enjoy,
JCN

Your cz action will smooth up with use, cz's are truly great rifles for the money.

Hey Pete, Check the GunSmith Forum for some kind of "Update" on the CZ550s. I think Ray started the current thread. Your new rifle may already have this incorporated.

Polishing your feed rails with a Midway tool and "sandpaper" doesn't sound like something I'd do at all. That could be a bit too aggressive and end up ruining your rifle instead of slicking it up. Plus, it will cut the entire race instead of just the tight spots.

Normal bolt cycling will probably smooth it, but if you are determined to hurry the process, consider using either JB Compound or "Whitening Tooth Paste" applied to the bolt races and just cycle it. Neither will harm the rifle or "cut the race".