I was looking at the cz 453 american. Can any of you tell me about the rifle? How nice is the wood on these rifles?

The CZ 452 preceeded the 453, which has CZ's single set trigger on it. The trigger is the only difference between the two rifles.
I have 452 Prestige model in 22 rimfire. The Walnut stock on the Prestige model is far better than the regular 452's.
Mine is probably THE most accurate 22 Sporter I've ever shot, to and including an Anschutz 1720.
Don

You can't go wrong with CZ 452 or 453.I've yet to hear of one that wouldn't shoot very well with the right ammo.I haven't made up my mind which model yet but there's definitely one in my near future.

Lad,

I echo the comments on the CZ!! I have several iterations of their bolt guns and find all to be most satisfactory w/in that price range.

I have also had exceptional accuracy w/a Ruger 77/22 and Winchester HSHP ammo. I don't know what Ruger is asking now.

As to wood. I have seen precious little in the way of eye-catching grain of late. I don't think any manufacturer can be counted on to consistently supply wood of any visual quality.

My CZ 452 American in 17 mach2 (if you are considering an alternative to the 22) has a MAPLE stock and is virtually blonde in color (I must have been nostalgic for 1950's furniture when I bought it). Actually, some nice figure to the wood, and I have yet to hear a red squirrel or starling say "what... you gonna shoot me w/that funny looking thing???"

I do get some odd looks with that gun, until I start using other fellow's groups as bulls eyes and shoot tight groups inside them!!!

Selecting the "perfect" 22lr is akin to the thrill and emotion of any hunt. I hope you enjoy the process as much as the end product. But do consider the CZ's and if you find one w/nice wood... your hunt may be over - and new emotions emerge!!!

Mike