Hi,

taking my CZ 550 .375 H&H to a 'smith soon to have some modifications done. I'd appreciate some input on the work I'd like to haev done.

My rifle is the standard model, picture from CZ site below



1) Shorten barrel (from 25") to 22" (560 mm). Retain muzzle band.
2) Additional cross bolt below receiver ring. If possible, match the existing bolt below tang.
3) Glass bed action
4) Replace standard ventilated recoil pad with a Pachmayr decelerator pad

And I have been considering

1) Install barrel band sling mount. Remove front sling swivel and plug hole.
Does this make carrying the rifle slung over the shoulder and more or less comfortable? Does it add any practical value?

As you can see, all changes are practical ones. Not trying to put lipstick on a pig, so to speak.

Any comments? Also, if anyone has photos of modified CZ 550's please share here.

Cheers!

I shoot a classic stocked 602 and I suggest you leave your barrel the way it is.

Accuracy and velocity are wonderful with the 25 inch barrel. Obviously the iron sights do their best work with a longer sight radius. I guess if you're going to rely on a scope 100% of the time 22 inches might not matter, but watch the balance also...it may change in an adverse way.

I like the decelerator idea, the vented pad is rubbish.

I'd be surprised if you need the second bolt, but I'm sure it wont hurt anything.

Also, glass bedding is probably a good idea, although mine uses original bedding and easily groups MOA and better.

Just for the record, that long barrel and extra action length can really give you some speed when needed.

I like the safety mounted on the bolt that locks the firing pin. You can probably get those parts shipped over from AHR (American Hunting Rifles).

I dont know how truely practical the bbl mounted sling, but that is one mod that should add to the resale value of the gun. It makes the 'Look' right. While the bbl is being shortened his is ideal opportunity to make the change. That is two thumbs up.

Edit: I did not know he was asking about the bbl length. I though that was a given. My 2c. I think 22 inch would be an excellent trade off in handling v. performance.

You are lucky to get those slim stocks as opposed to the USA stuff. A Pachmayr Decelerator pad is a necessity.

If you are going into the brush after DG I'd shorten the barrel and get a checkered bolt handle. The rest of what you listed is lipstick.

The middle rifle is a CZ550 in 375 H&H with many of the modifications that you mention, it also has a different trigger and a winchester type safety made by Danie Joubert.I am selling that exact stock - CZ 550 original straight stock with glass bedding, a pachmayr decelerator pad, oil finish and the front swivel removed hole filled etc. Probably will cost you about the same as what you want done to your current stock. PM me if interested and i will mail pics

Besides adding scope with mounts and sling nothing needs to be done to that gun. I had couple 602s with pad like that.

Shortened the barrel on my Lott tp 23". Sure makes it handy. You may have some LOP to play with in the CZ. Mine came with a 14" LOP which fits me fine with open sights. Perhaps 1/8-1/4 long for a scope but doable. You can always shorten them but it is a pain to lengthen them. If it is too long it is easy to address. I might replace the front sight with a NECG masterpiece barrel band unit.

I own the CZ 550 American Safri 458 Lott. That Rifle fits right into my shoulder And recoil doesn't bother me standing and on the bench I use a sand bag. I wouldn't change a thing on my
Lott.

The folks at AHR do what's needed and do it well.

Here's a link.

AHR

Maybe someone in RSA can do something similar for you.

Here's a photo of some guy shooting an AHR modified CZ 550 Magnum rifle in .416 Rigby.

quote:

Originally posted by Michael Robinson:
The folks at AHR do what's needed and do it well.

+1. Wayne and the folks at AHR have done two CZ's for me, a .416 Rigby and a .458 Lott. They did a great job on both and their CZ package deals are the best way to go to in order to bring out the best in a CZ.

Here are some pics of the .416 Rigby:

http://forums.accuratereloadin...611093821#8611093821

remove the finger gouging sling stud and put a barrel band on it, while you are shortening it.
this is the most practical thing you can do for this rifle


reinstall the factory front sight, but recut for NECG inserts

polish insuide the magbox

i like wrist pins in big bores

your concept is a sound one, from one rifle guy to another ..


if you can get a timney trigger, and aren't set on a set trigger, replace the trigger with a less complicated one.

quote:

No doubt that Wayne at AHR has a stand-up reputation for reworking, customizing and supplying parts for CZ550M actions and rifles.

X2

IMO,you will waste your money if you don't change the barrel,above all and then the trigger.I would calculate the real cost of going all the way with upgrading the CZ and then compare the alternatives.One would be to get a cartridge specific custom action,cut rifled barrel,and a nice piece of walnut then hit the bargaining table.

American Hunting Rifles modified my CZ with their No. 1 and No. 2 upgrages. I am well pleased with rifle.

Wayne even finished it ahead of schedule.

Your on the right track. I'd install NECG open sights and a barrel band as well as a AHR three position safety and a AHR trigger. steel bed the action properly and you don't need cross bolts on a .375.-Rob

Add some fashion of steel pillar bedding to your listing. And make sure the magazine well is burr free and platform polished.
Should be a great rework, BUT
remember, its only money.
Bob

unishiwam is from South African. As great as AHR is, I would think these few simple mods could be done locally. Thats why I suggested buying parts from AHR and go with good local gun smith for the work.

I like the direct firing pin safety from AHR. That safety just happens to be a 3 position. Thats not what counts. It is on the bolt and locks the firing pin. The ultimate safety. I love this safety, just like the Win M70 - perfect.

Adding the sling swivel bbl band makes good sense because you are going to cut the barrel. So, ideal opportunity. That one detail will really add to the resale and class looks of the gun.

I think the CZ trigger is ok. If you have extra money the AHR seems good. I have one. But if you are on a budget, then I can (and do) live with the CZ trigger on two of my 550's.

The trigger could be done anytime in the future - assuming you can buy the parts. No rush. Same with the safety. The bbl band sling stud time is now.

Thanks for all of the comments and suggestions!

I will probably do this upgrade over some time, starting off with the bedding then maybe later the metal work that must be done.

All suggestions indicate that a Winchester-type safety is money well spent.

Thanks again!

You could always install some internal crossbolts while you're bedding the rifle. That eliminates the need to match them to the current crossbolt.

I will also sing the praises of AHR. I am thoroughly pleases with the work Wayne did on my rifle; it get's many compliments at the range from others too.

Just save yourself a lot of trouble and send it to Wayne at American Hunting Rifles. He just finished a .416 Rigby for me and it is superb.

How easy or difficult or costly is it to send a rifle from South Africa to the US?

quote:

Originally posted by Boxhead:
How easy or difficult or costly is it to send a rifle from South Africa to the US?

It is so difficult and costly, and would take so much time to accomplish, that it is not a realistic option.

That is why I suggested above that the best approach for umshiniwam in this case would be to look at the options offered by AHR, and find a gunsmith in RSA to do the same or similar work.

A .375 H&H really doesnt need cross-bolts and pillar bedding is useless! Just steel bed the action and front recoil lug and you will be fine. Given AHR's expertise and RELIABILITY with this gun, you'd be well advised to just send it to them and save yourself potential grief.-Rob

Good lord the export fees alone from both countries would exceed the value of the rifle....if he wanted to do that it would be easier to buy a new one from the US and have the work done and then send it out...

I can understand people want to give AHR business but cmon guys...this is barrel chop on a CZ and other basic mods and SA has some great smiths.

To the OP I like the idea of the barrel, I had a CZ in 375 chopped to 21" from memory for hunting big hogs in rainforest and plantations. Still managed to push bullets back to factory levels with judicious handloading.

Yes,

sending the rifle to AHR would not be practical or feasible.

It (their upgrade) is a great example to follow though.

Cheers

From what I understand, there are quite a few smiths familiar with the CZ platform in South Africa since it is such a popular rifle there. I didn't realize you were in South Africa when I made my original recommendation.

If you can find someone to do the metal work for you, anything stock related (glass bedding, internal crossbolts, wrist pin, remove forend swivel stud, etc.) is fairly simple. Just take your time and read up how to do it. There's lots of pictures and instructions on AR if you do a little searching.

None of those mods can hurt. They can only help. Now if you could get CZ to sell you that stock in the photo.....

quote:

I shoot a classic stocked 602 and I suggest you leave your barrel the way it is.

Accuracy and velocity are wonderful with the 25 inch barrel.

I had two ZKK 600 rifles with 23.5" barrels (and FWIW) barrel bands but I also have a FN 8x60S Mauser with 25" barrel.

FWIW it handled just as quick as any shorter barrel rifle.

So I'd also say leave the barrel uncut.

If you handload you can load a lower recoil load to get the same velocity in your 25" as your 22".

But shot to shot recovery and sigt picture retention will be better!