CZ550 actions are built like tanks, much better then model 70s or any other CRF/Mauser style. I have used them for custom long range rifle builds in 338 lapua magnum and 300 win mag. The actions are just so solid and the long magazine box allows you to use a lot of the heavy high BC bullets for 300 and 338 without losing powder capacity. Thanks for your videos.
I had a CZ 550 FS in 9.3x62 Mauser and sold it before I found out CZ was moving away from CRF rifles. I watched this video and purchased a 550 in .375 H&H the next day. Good informative video. It made my heart sink when I read all the gun writers rave over the new Eclipse rifle from CZ that is push feed. I guess all good things must come to an end.
Recently snagged a CZ550 in 458 Lott for USD 2700. To get a Granite Mountain Double Square Mauser Mag action in the white is $4500! A total build, barrel [Wilson] $250 before custom reaming, go . no go gauges, Stock [likely $2500] , trigger work [????] , mercury recoil reducer [$250]..... then putting it all together! if you have $15000 to spend go for it but for me a CZ550 in 458 Lott at $2750 is a steal!
Sad to hear about the 550's demise. Even sadder to know the last decade of 550's are on par with Remington's last few years production. Great video with useful information.
I had a CZ 550 416 Rigby . Scratched the casing and I have to adjust the scoop almost to the top in order to hit the center . Bought a Sako in 375 H&H insted . Very pleased !!
I have one in 375 H&H that I had gunsmithed and converted to 375 H&H Ackley Improved and throated the chamber some to seat the bullet further out for more case capacity. It shoots a 350 grain HPBT Matchking at just under 2500 fps with a BC of .75. It is super accurate, never given me trouble, has terrific trigger. I have the older larger stock on mine. It holds 5+1 of this monster cartridge. Truly a remarkable rifle. Really sorry to see them go.
The video was inspiring..... Just bought this same model tonight! your correct about the history and iconic ownership the .375 H&H represents. Pure Juice.
I bought a CZ550 in 6.5x55 back in 2004, and it remains my most accurate out-of-the box rifle, heavy for what it is but nevertheless a joy to shoot. I bought a CZ550 Safari Magnum in .458 WinMag in 2006. I am not particularly recoil-sensitive, and I always wear a PAST recoil shield, but this one is not anywhere near as accurate as this caliber is reputed to be. At first I thought it was my reloads - this caliber is EXPENSIVE to shoot - but I fired some Hornady factory loads through it too, and the cases deformed horribly, stretching forward grotesquely on one side of the case mouths. I should've sent it back for warranty work... but I didn't. Oh well, it's now just a novelty range gun, and any serious work in the field is now confined to what my Model 70 in .375 H&H Magnum can accomplish (within my own limitations, of course.) Great video, thank you! Sad to see these rifles go.
Back when (ten years ago) i was shopping for a .375 H&H as a rifle i could hunt elk etc. with that would double for bear safety (griz) as there are many bears in my neighborhood. Compared the Winchester model 70 with the CZ 550 and ended up going with the CZ cos I thought it had slighty better features. The sticker price was similar on the 2. It was a great shooter right out of the box and i never had these quality issues, maybe this was before they began? I've slimmed the contours of the stock down some, tinted the decent standard walnut on it with a black cherry tint, took the sling stud out of fore end and put a ring on the barrel, colour-case hardened the bolt and got 2" taken off the barrel (much nicer), which was re-blued and re-crowned. Polished the wood with tung oil to a glassy sheen. The thing looks like an old Rigby now, and of course Rigby did use BRNO (CZ) actions for some of their bolt rifles, which actually influenced my decision to get a 550. I reckoned good enough for Rigby good enough for me! I didn't do anything to improve the accuracy cos it was plenty good right out of the box. Only thing that isn't great is the safety, which sometimes gets activated in rapid practice shooting. I may go with an after-market model 70 style safety. Other than that i think this is a pretty much perfect heavy bolt rifle. Shoots and handles great, and looks superb with some aesthetic improvements.
My 550 fs, chamberedin 6.5 x 55 is perfect to me. Not one problem. I bought it new in 2017. Gorgeous rifle! I shoot 2.0 moa with NECG aperture sights. My eyes are 66 years old! The NECG rear aperture attaches to the rear scope mount. It looks "old world military cool"! I've taken two deer with the 6.5. Very impressive skills each time.
I just bought a CZ 550 in 416 Rigby. I bought it from a collector who never fired it. Was built in 2008. I have had the action cross bolted and bedded for added security. Feeds amazing and it has become one of my favourites.
Available on the used market, they get picked up quickly. For good reason no negative issues means a excellent design and workmanship. Built to last several lifetimes. I own several commercial Mausers from the 1950's to late 60's and the CZ is there equal. If you see one buy it or it will be gone in a minute.
Not sure if you’ll answer back but im taking a shot here but if you do thanks a bunch in advance, I saw a cz 550 chambered in 30-06 at a pawn shop near me they are asking $750. is that to be x pensive or is it a good deal?
I have a CZ 550 in 375 H&H built by Wayne: I didn't buy the rifle, then send it to him - I simply had him supply the action and build if from scratch. . . Great rifle and AHR is FANTASTIC to work with; Wayne will certainly build another for me -- Do us a favor and make a vid of the completed rifle, would love to see it. Thanks for the time and effort you put into filming
Considering the amounts to be spent for upgrades, or rather elevating to standard, it makes sense to get a new Heym 98 or Mauser Isny 98 . Both are available at that price levels in their basic non-fancy configurations. Yet I remain a loyal 550 fan, it was my first rifle, paid from salary at my first job. Still own one.
Just bought 2 new rifles within the last month (April and May 2020 ) Winchester Model 70 Safari Express in 458 Win Mag; and a CZ550 Safari Magnum in 375 H+H. In all honesty, the CZ is just as nice as the Winchester. The CZ is perfect in all aspects. This CZ was the last one that Zanders wholesale had in stock. A beautiful rifle; and I could not be more pleased with the quality of the CZ; not to mention $200 cheaper than the Winchester.
My CZ 550 in 6.5/55 is equal, in every respect to my Model 70 in .300 Win.mag. In my region, .300 Win. mag is way too much gun for anyting from the North American to Nordic monsters!
The CZ 550 was actually discontinued nearly 5 years ago and that was supposed to be the last run. I work in a major gun store in Melbourne, Australia and I bought one in .458 Win Mag back then for AUD $1595. At that price I couldn't refuse. It was the Lux model with the hogsbach comb. I later sold this for a Winchester Model 70 Safari Express which was the last one in that calibre in this country and to my knowledge still is from our Winchester distributors. We have just received the 'last batch' again of the CZ 550 which as you state I believe will be the last run. We have received the same Lux CZ 550 in 375 H+H last week (which remember holds 6 rounds in the mag) and in a few months more we will be receiving the same model in .458 Win Mag. These will be selling for AUD $1,895 which I believe is a bargain for what these CZ 550's offer that you so rightly stated. It will be interesting to see if CZ ever produce another run but my advice is to grab one of these while you can. A lot can be done with the trigger, chamberings, etc and the stock profile can be slimmed down. Anyways thanks for sharing.
yeah , WTF!!!?? thought the CZ550 was a winner , an affordable, reliable and loyal workhorse, why the heck did they DISCONTINUE this.....dont understand!?
My CZ550fs is almost perfect in every way (the bolt action was stiff when new). I bought mine in 2016. It is a perfect gun for me, and I hope that whoever ends up with this rifle after my death, will appreciate this rifle as I have. Long live CZ! Long live CZ! Long live CZ! Honestly? It doesnt get much better than this. If you see a used CZ550 in any caliber.......buy it now!
I'd been looking for a hunting rifle in .243 and came across a like new 550FS. Of course I bought it instantly at it was about $300 less than what some people are asking.
I own a CZ550 Safari Grade with double set trigger in the 375 H&H And would not sell it for any reason. Have used it on Gophers to Moose and never had one issue with it. As it is said, It kills everything all out of reason. As for the kick, it is about the same as a 12 gauge shotgun to my mind.
It may have been a different model, but the CZ 30-06 I handled in the gun shop had no guide rib, with claw extractor, and had a bolt face like a Remington 700. The tooling and finish on it, left a lot to be desired, but then, so did nearly every other gun I looked at, from all manufacturers.
Just learned about the discontinuation from this video tonight! My CZ 550 in .416 Rigby is wonderful- bought it new in 2010. I found this video during my searches for .505 Gibbs. Heh.
My main hunting rifle, is a ZG 47 in 3006, that is another BRNO Product that went by the wayside, my one was made in 1957, when I kick the bucket, my oldest son will end up with it, I hope that is many years from now.
I'm lucky I bought a cz 550 fs in 9.3x62 about 12 years ago and it has beautiful fit and finish and feeds perfect. It almost sound like the winchester story in 1964 when there tooling got worn out. At least that's the story I've heard
The 9.3x62 was made on a standard or "medium" 550 action with the newer tooling, and had few issues. The Magnum actions, particularly 404J-up, used the old BRNO 602 tooling that was pretty much past its prime. These old-school, hefty double square-bridge controlled-round feed actions with iron sights were just too expensive to manufacture and compete with other budget rifles like Tikka, Howa, and Savage.
Just a little warning for any *CZ550* Safari Magnum owners, *they RUST easily!!!* After just one hunt with my .416 Rigby, I had to have it Cerokoted. The Remington and the Winchester in camp didn't rust under the same conditions. Don't get me wrong, CZ makes a solid rifle; however the bluing is just not up to snuff.
I was going to buy one to go Alaska.. This is sad for sure. I am kicking myself for selling my cz 550 American a few years ago. When companies don't maintain and update their machines and quality goes down the toilet. Hopefully CZ re-introduces the 550 in the future with better tooling and quality control. If Im not mistaken Winchester model 70 has a Safari model at a similar price point. Of course you have the Ruger African Hawkeye. The problem with both those rifles is that Ruger and Winchester don't make their rifles chambered in cartridges like the .416 Rigby, .458 Lott, and the big 50's.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 thinking of getting rid of the .375 but the .416 on the other hand not only is it one of my favorite cartridges ever, have fun finding a rifle chambered in it. IMO the sectional density of a 450 gr projectile in .416 caliber is one of the best combinations anyone could look for in a dangerous game load, especially against angry coastal browns and mountain grizz. I cant wait to try it out when the opportunity comes and see that bear not know what hit him in the chest, but also passed completely through his angry 800lb mass of thick bones and tissue and out of his rear. Certainly a follow might be necessary and I will expect it but to see the energy of the .416 pass through him and ripple his mass will be exhilarating. Haha, yeah, I’ve put some thought behind this. 😂
Bought a CZ 550 in .416 Rigby 10 years ago. Not a single problem with feeding or quality of the gun. I just removed the original trigger for a Timney. Shoots one inch groups.
I mourn the 550's ... I'm just glad they still have the Ruger Hawkeye's and Winchester 70's.... in 2020 they're not even producing walnut stocked blued steel versions of the Hawkeye... it's a bad year for "traditional style" hunting rifles
Just bought 2 Hawkeye African Rifles, both had nice wood. 9.3x62 and 280 Ackley Improved. both purchased in July and Aug of 2020 !!! Both were Lipsey's Specials. They are available if you look.
I bought the cz 550 in 375 , but I do plan on sending it up to American hunting rifles and getting a good amount of work done , I do like that it holds 5 + 1 in 375 h and h .
Wayne will take care of you and his work is 100% awesome. He has turned guns that were absolute turds into some of the best rifles I own. The #2 package makes these 550's better than most $15,000 custom guns.
@Thorekk Whats masochistic about it? If you can shoot it well and handle the recoil (and cost to feed it) go right ahead and shoot. I have well over 200 rounds through my featherweight .458 Win Mag. It fits me perfectly and I have no issues with the recoil.
There was a time when the Winchester plant in Connecticut closed down and production of the mod.70 came to a stop.This happened right in the middle of the safari boom years and hunters had no choice but to buy CZ 550's if they wanted a controlled round feed rifle that wasn't cast made.This is when CZ sold tons of 550's.
Model 70 production was only stopped for 1 year (2007); and those definately weren't "safari boom years". The New Haven plant closed in late 2006 and the South Carolina FN military plant made Model 70s in 2008. The 550 magnum was very popular after it came out in 1995, mainly because it was half the price of the Model 70 and quality was decent. They really became popular later because they offered it in so many Chamberings like 404 Jeffery, 416 Rigby, 458 Lott, 450 Rigby, 500 Jeffery, and 505 Gibbs. But, CZ was using the ancient Brno ZKK 602 tooling to make modern CZ550 Magnums, and quality issues became common-place. Even PHs in Africa would send their new 550's to a smith to get worked-over. Eventually, quality got so bad that CZ made the decision to stop production instead of completely re-tooling the factory. They are excellent actions to build off of, and I own several. The reality of the 550 Magnum, was that you were getting a cheap rifle that needed a little bit of work out of the box; but once you did that, it was a great rifle.
First I saw the post on the FB group about it and contacted CZ to find out. Jacob at CZ in KCK got back with me on the 25th of Feb and said they were not ending production of the 550 Safari. I quote "We have not stopped production of the 550 Safari series but they can sometimes be hard to find. If you provide the state you live in I can find your closest authorized dealer." The Safari Classic on their website does state it has been discontinued but there is nothing on the website saying the American or Standard Safari has been. Triple Tree in Warsaw Mo that does their custom jobs aren't taking orders because of a shortage of actions. If you heard this from a valid CZ source please elaborate on where your information comes from.
The CZ reps at the SCI convention and the SHOT convention both confirmed that production of the 550 magnum has permanently ceased. CZ is currently moving existing stock and assembling off the last of the magnum receivers in stock. Triple river has less than 100 receivers left, then they are done.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 If the reps are saying it then I'd expect to see something on their website announcing it or something. Apparently they haven't clued in the Jacob the sales rep in kck. Honestly, the only reason I'd get a 550 would be for the 416 rigby. However, as you said in the video by the time you get the features the M70 has you could just by the M70. As far as AHR they do awesome work but if you do the whole #3 package I'd rather save some moremoney and get one of the new Mauser 98 magnums in 416 rigby. The one thing about the 550 I don't like is the lack of an extractor claw support on the bolt like an original mauser, the M70 doesn't have it either but the extractor is more robust and tighter to the bolt body. Regardless there will be alot of used 550's still floating around for a longtime if they do discontinue it.
@@randyc6912 They will remain on the website until the 1000 or so rifles in stock are sold. I agree though, and if you watch my videos you know I am a diehard M70 and Mauser guy. Feel bad for the PHs starting out in Africa. The 550 is always their first big bore (only thing they can afford and reliably get).
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 From a hunting stand point doing away with the 550 safaris is a good way to alienate your customers and very unfortunate for the PH's that don't have the money for something like a double. Piss pour decision in my opinion.
I heard it from the CZ office and confirmed it with the CZ rep at the SHOT show. This was not a "rumor". The 550 (standard and magnum) is no longer being made.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Really sad, do you know if they will still be producing the actions? I just recently built a custom 300 win mag off of a CZ 550. I love the CZ550 actions they are great base for custom projects, very robust. If they still produce the receivers you can just go the custom route and put a krieger and Bell and Carlson on it.
Great rifle, but due to the quality concerns, I ended up purchasing a Montana Arms, which I guess is the next best option for an action that can handle the big cartridges anymore. Too bad because its more of a Winchester Model 70 design than the double square bridge Mauser action.
Nothing wrong with the Montana or the model 70 (same design). But the 550 was a cheap way to have a 404J, 458 Lott, 450 Rigby, 500J, or 505 Gibbs. After the #2 upgrade at AHR, you could have a great custom rifle in the $3K range. FYI, I got word 2 days ago that the Montana Rifle Company shut down.
I own a CZ 550 in 375 H&H in South Africa. American Hunter Mag. Imported it from the USA some 20 years ago..... about 20 rounds thriugh the barrel, in mint cindition. Question, please. Are these Mod 550's still of good quality and worth anything?
Wow I paid $850 for mine years ago from the Cabellas gun library in Phoenix, AZ, and another, I don't know, maybe another few hundred for conversion to 375 AI from a gunsmith in Monterey, CA and to get it to feed right in the new chambering. We lengthened the action and chamber some as the magazine would support it. He had to modify the bolt head some. Action smoothed out, works like a charm, has terminal ballistics that is just amazing. MIne holds 5+1 , how much does your Winchester Model 70 hold?
i had one! it spent more time going back to the custom shop to make it work than i had it in hand. bad chambering ( shells would not come out with out a block of wood on the bolt!) bad barrel, no feeding ever happened. it would not do it. i cut my losses and went with a granite mountain and a good builder, no the 505 gibbs i have works every time!
What I heard is that cz now just producing the 557 rifle . from what I can tell, the 557 is every bit as good as this rifle is. They even share the same detachable magazine, for the models that used detachable magazines of course.
Yes, but only the large magnum actions (450R, 458L, 500J, 505G). The barreled actions are the cat's-meow for a custom bolt-action safari rifle chambered in the big hitters.
I have a CZ 550 in .416 Rigby in synthetic stock. I have had it for about 8 years, new condition, never have fired it. I wonder what it might be worth?
CZ has been up and down with quality over the past 5 years. I recall CZ 527 carbines 2-3 years ago were pretty shoddy. Rough bolts. Poorly-inletted stocks. One oddball example of an unsafe trigger that went off without the trigger being pulled. HOWEVER, recent production CZ rifles have been more than excellent. Fit, finish, and function have greatly improved.
@@cs-rj8ru I have a CZ 557 in 243win, and it's been excellent, barring a few issues. Firstly, the factory crown was rough.... as if carved with a spoon. A quick re-crown job fixed that easily. Secondly, the ejection can be very anemic (or nonexistant) when the bolt is run slowly. This is likely due to improper extractor tension. I got mine for a steal ... so I shouldn't be complaining. Accuracy and trigger are excellent. I also purchased the 457 rimfire rifle, which had serious stock issues. The stock "pillars" were soft to the touch... so the action would "sink" into the stock while shooting.... until the action migrated far enough that the barrel was no longer free-floated. I dremeled out the original "pillars" and glass-bedded the action to the stock. Problem solved. It's a tackdriver.
I wonder if the custom shop will still build it? I know that the custom shop builds a lot of there discontinued rifles in cartridges they don't have listed. Did you ever have the pop up aperture sight that would fold away under a scope? Thanks
the custom shop can't build 550s without actions, which are no longer made. I believe the old Brno 600 rifles from 40 years ago came with the pop up aperture sights.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 I was considering building a custom 550 in 300 H&H mag with the pop-up sight they said no prob. I decided not to. Really more than I need. I decided on 30-06 70 Alaskan and after market aperture sight probably Williams or Lyman but I read Ok Weber in England makes a good vernier that the military uses as a backup for the Remington sniper rifle. Looking into that one too. Thanks
So what big bore calibers will be around for the duration? Or is it just cz that is calling it quits? I have a .338 win mag from browning and I want a .375 h&h mag but I hear that's not awesome for Africa and that even grizzlies are better taken with a 416.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 thanks maybe I'll keep an eye out for a browning a-bolt in 375 to match my browning 338. That's what I was doing until I went down the big bore rabbit 🐇 hole.
I've a question do Kimber or Montana(USA) not make a Double square bridge action in magnum actions??? I'm sure I saw one of them make them a few years ago????
The Montana rifle company went out of business, but was an M70 copy. Kimber is an exact copy of the Model 70. Mayfair and Prechtl still make high-dollar double square-bridge actions for custom builds (Rigby and Westley Richards use these actions).
Really enjoy your vids, and I can say it really got me back into CRF. I was wondering if you have a ruger M77 in your collection, if not you might want to look into one of the early boat paddle stock/all weather versions (stainless). they are exceptional!!
That is why most people buy them as a cheap foundation for an awesome custom rifle. For under $5k USD, you can have a badass custom double square-bridge Mauser in 500 Jefferey!
Thankyou for this info.. I was going to buy a CZ550 Safari Magnum; but due to their recent quality control issues; plus the fact that they have cast receivers; I say good ridance !! I bought a Winchester Model 70 Safari Magnum instead, and think I have made a good choice, The model 70 has a "forged" steel receiver; and that is the way to go IMHO . True that FN does not produce the rare British calibers; but a 375, 416, or 458 should be enough for anyone; and the Winchester was only a couple hundred dollars more than the CZ. I would advise everyone to pay that extra $200. The model 70 is an outstanding rifle, and well worth the price.
Looks like the next best thing for an "affordable" magnum Mauser action is going to be the Montana Rifle Company Professional Hunter action. In the US at least.
Same here- I picked one up one over a decade ago. Somehow, it was brand new clearance for less than 5 bills. Every sub-$1k rifle I see on the shelves these days is just meh in comparison. RIP 550
I have had a couple of the model 70 classic rifles. Good guns I still use 1 for bad weather hunting. For dangerous game you would want the 2 piece bolt rebrazed as I have read they can separate. They are on the used gun sites sometimes. Good luck.
Is the reason that CZ ceased production maybe that the 550 was an economical option for a shrinking market? I don’t know the figures, but perhaps the developments in long action cartridges (standard actions these days) has moved the market away from magnum actions. I would think that magnum action length cartridges are really relegated to dangerous game hunting in Africa, which is a really small market share of overall hunting.
The decision was mostly based on the fact that the 60 year old machines and tooling to make the 550 were wore out. Sales volume didn't justify a completely new manufacturing plant.
They ended production over a year ago. A CZ rep told me that it was expensive to produce, and the tooling was in need of complete replacement. CZ's new business model was focusing more on handguns, shotguns, and budget rifles.
Saw this video after watching Kentucky Ballistics. Got one in 458 lott.
CZ550 actions are built like tanks, much better then model 70s or any other CRF/Mauser style. I have used them for custom long range rifle builds in 338 lapua magnum and 300 win mag. The actions are just so solid and the long magazine box allows you to use a lot of the heavy high BC bullets for 300 and 338 without losing powder capacity. Thanks for your videos.
The CZ550 American and the CZ550 Safari Mag are wonderful rifles. Have taken a 9,3x62 and a 416 Rigby to Africa three times! Neither ever failed ...
The 550 was an incredible value for a modified Mauser action rifle. Really sorry to see it go.
Thanks!
I always enjoy your videos. Your down-to-earth, humble, factual approach is very informative and helpful. Keep up the good work.
I had a CZ 550 FS in 9.3x62 Mauser and sold it before I found out CZ was moving away from CRF rifles. I watched this video and purchased a 550 in .375 H&H the next day. Good informative video. It made my heart sink when I read all the gun writers rave over the new Eclipse rifle from CZ that is push feed. I guess all good things must come to an end.
Recently snagged a CZ550 in 458 Lott for USD 2700. To get a Granite Mountain Double Square Mauser Mag action in the white is $4500! A total build, barrel [Wilson] $250 before custom reaming, go . no go gauges, Stock [likely $2500] , trigger work [????] , mercury recoil reducer [$250]..... then putting it all together! if you have $15000 to spend go for it but for me a CZ550 in 458 Lott at $2750 is a steal!
Sad to hear about the 550's demise. Even sadder to know the last decade of 550's are on par with Remington's last few years production. Great video with useful information.
I have a 550 made in the early 2010s and it is of good quality. Exteremely accurate. The only thing I saw an issue with was one of the pillars.
I had a CZ 550 416 Rigby . Scratched the casing and I have to adjust the scoop almost to the top in order to hit the center . Bought a Sako in 375 H&H insted . Very pleased !!
I am liking these videos more and more for there honesty, I think the desert dog trys to give us the truth as he sees it! I give this a million likes!
I have one in 375 H&H that I had gunsmithed and converted to 375 H&H Ackley Improved and throated the chamber some to seat the bullet further out for more case capacity. It shoots a 350 grain HPBT Matchking at just under 2500 fps with a BC of .75. It is super accurate, never given me trouble, has terrific trigger. I have the older larger stock on mine. It holds 5+1 of this monster cartridge. Truly a remarkable rifle. Really sorry to see them go.
I have one Cz 550 Magnum in 375 H&H and one Cz 550 Safari Magnum in 458 Lott. I love them.
The video was inspiring..... Just bought this same model tonight! your correct about the history and iconic ownership the .375 H&H represents. Pure Juice.
I bought a CZ550 in 6.5x55 back in 2004, and it remains my most accurate out-of-the box rifle, heavy for what it is but nevertheless a joy to shoot. I bought a CZ550 Safari Magnum in .458 WinMag in 2006. I am not particularly recoil-sensitive, and I always wear a PAST recoil shield, but this one is not anywhere near as accurate as this caliber is reputed to be. At first I thought it was my reloads - this caliber is EXPENSIVE to shoot - but I fired some Hornady factory loads through it too, and the cases deformed horribly, stretching forward grotesquely on one side of the case mouths. I should've sent it back for warranty work... but I didn't. Oh well, it's now just a novelty range gun, and any serious work in the field is now confined to what my Model 70 in .375 H&H Magnum can accomplish (within my own limitations, of course.) Great video, thank you! Sad to see these rifles go.
Back when (ten years ago) i was shopping for a .375 H&H as a rifle i could hunt elk etc. with that would double for bear safety (griz) as there are many bears in my neighborhood. Compared the Winchester model 70 with the CZ 550 and ended up going with the CZ cos I thought it had slighty better features. The sticker price was similar on the 2. It was a great shooter right out of the box and i never had these quality issues, maybe this was before they began? I've slimmed the contours of the stock down some, tinted the decent standard walnut on it with a black cherry tint, took the sling stud out of fore end and put a ring on the barrel, colour-case hardened the bolt and got 2" taken off the barrel (much nicer), which was re-blued and re-crowned. Polished the wood with tung oil to a glassy sheen. The thing looks like an old Rigby now, and of course Rigby did use BRNO (CZ) actions for some of their bolt rifles, which actually influenced my decision to get a 550. I reckoned good enough for Rigby good enough for me! I didn't do anything to improve the accuracy cos it was plenty good right out of the box. Only thing that isn't great is the safety, which sometimes gets activated in rapid practice shooting. I may go with an after-market model 70 style safety. Other than that i think this is a pretty much perfect heavy bolt rifle. Shoots and handles great, and looks superb with some aesthetic improvements.
My 550 fs, chamberedin 6.5 x 55 is perfect to me. Not one problem. I bought it new in 2017. Gorgeous rifle!
I shoot 2.0 moa with NECG aperture sights. My eyes are 66 years old!
The NECG rear aperture attaches to the rear scope mount. It looks "old world military cool"!
I've taken two deer with the 6.5. Very impressive skills each time.
I just bought a CZ 550 in 416 Rigby. I bought it from a collector who never fired it. Was built in 2008. I have had the action cross bolted and bedded for added security. Feeds amazing and it has become one of my favourites.
Available on the used market, they get picked up quickly. For good reason no negative issues means a excellent design and workmanship. Built to last several lifetimes. I own several commercial Mausers from the 1950's to late 60's and the CZ is there equal. If you see one buy it or it will be gone in a minute.
Not sure if you’ll answer back but im taking a shot here but if you do thanks a bunch in advance, I saw a cz 550 chambered in 30-06 at a pawn shop near me they are asking $750. is that to be x pensive or is it a good deal?
I have a CZ 550 in 375 H&H built by Wayne: I didn't buy the rifle, then send it to him - I simply had him supply the action and build if from scratch. . . Great rifle and AHR is FANTASTIC to work with; Wayne will certainly build another for me -- Do us a favor and make a vid of the completed rifle, would love to see it. Thanks for the time and effort you put into filming
Wayne did his magic on all of my 550s. Simply awesome work at a fair price.
Considering the amounts to be spent for upgrades, or rather elevating to standard, it makes sense to get a new Heym 98 or Mauser Isny 98 . Both are available at that price levels in their basic non-fancy configurations. Yet I remain a loyal 550 fan, it was my first rifle, paid from salary at my first job. Still own one.
Just bought 2 new rifles within the last month (April and May 2020 ) Winchester Model 70 Safari Express in 458 Win Mag; and a CZ550 Safari Magnum in 375 H+H. In all honesty, the CZ is just as nice as the Winchester. The CZ is perfect in all aspects. This CZ was the last one that Zanders wholesale had in stock. A beautiful rifle; and I could not be more pleased with the quality of the CZ; not to mention $200 cheaper than the Winchester.
My CZ 550 in 6.5/55 is equal, in every respect to my Model 70 in .300 Win.mag. In my region, .300 Win. mag is way too much gun for anyting from the North American to Nordic monsters!
@@daveadolph9069oh yeah tell it to yourself when you see a giant bear 100 feet away while in the woods
I have cz 550 in 416 rigby…I love this rifle! It is sad that they stopped production.
The CZ 550 was actually discontinued nearly 5 years ago and that was supposed to be the last run. I work in a major gun store in Melbourne, Australia and I bought one in .458 Win Mag back then for AUD $1595. At that price I couldn't refuse. It was the Lux model with the hogsbach comb. I later sold this for a Winchester Model 70 Safari Express which was the last one in that calibre in this country and to my knowledge still is from our Winchester distributors. We have just received the 'last batch' again of the CZ 550 which as you state I believe will be the last run. We have received the same Lux CZ 550 in 375 H+H last week (which remember holds 6 rounds in the mag) and in a few months more we will be receiving the same model in .458 Win Mag. These will be selling for AUD $1,895 which I believe is a bargain for what these CZ 550's offer that you so rightly stated. It will be interesting to see if CZ ever produce another run but my advice is to grab one of these while you can. A lot can be done with the trigger, chamberings, etc and the stock profile can be slimmed down. Anyways thanks for sharing.
What about variants like the 557? do you think/know its discontinued too?
The rifles have not been discontinued !!! Call CZ and you will get the truth.
@@JAD1225 that's why I wrote, We have just received the 'last batch' again.
I'm in Melbourne to, good to here your comments
Just strange here in South Africa the 550's are very popular, myself owning one, and I have never heard nor seen one giving problems.
I agree
My magazine had to be changed from not feeding properly.
this makes me sad :(
yeah , WTF!!!?? thought the CZ550 was a winner , an affordable, reliable and loyal workhorse, why the heck did they DISCONTINUE this.....dont understand!?
@@2011persol riiight, and they keep posting pictures of it on CZs Instagram page. Sad day
Me too :-(
@@2011persol people buyin' black rifles.
My CZ550fs is almost perfect in every way (the bolt action was stiff when new). I bought mine in 2016. It is a perfect gun for me, and I hope that whoever ends up with this rifle after my death, will appreciate this rifle as I have. Long live CZ! Long live CZ! Long live CZ!
Honestly? It doesnt get much better than this. If you see a used CZ550 in any caliber.......buy it now!
I'd been looking for a hunting rifle in .243 and came across a like new 550FS. Of course I bought it instantly at it was about $300 less than what some people are asking.
I own a CZ550 Safari Grade with double set trigger in the 375 H&H And would not sell it for any reason. Have used it on Gophers to Moose and never had one issue with it. As it is said, It kills everything all out of reason. As for the kick, it is about the same as a 12 gauge shotgun to my mind.
Thanks for the info
Alright , I appreciate that ! 😁I'll look em up , thanks bunches !
They say all good things come to an end, I hate that saying.
It may have been a different model, but the CZ 30-06 I handled in the gun shop had no guide rib, with claw extractor, and had a bolt face like a Remington 700. The tooling and finish on it, left a lot to be desired, but then, so did nearly every other gun I looked at, from all manufacturers.
The 557 is the one you handled.
Just learned about the discontinuation from this video tonight! My CZ 550 in .416 Rigby is wonderful- bought it new in 2010. I found this video during my searches for .505 Gibbs. Heh.
My main hunting rifle, is a ZG 47 in 3006, that is another BRNO Product that went by the wayside, my one was made in 1957, when I kick the bucket, my oldest son will end up with it, I hope that is many years from now.
I'm lucky I bought a cz 550 fs in 9.3x62 about 12 years ago and it has beautiful fit and finish and feeds perfect. It almost sound like the winchester story in 1964 when there tooling got worn out. At least that's the story I've heard
The 9.3x62 was made on a standard or "medium" 550 action with the newer tooling, and had few issues. The Magnum actions, particularly 404J-up, used the old BRNO 602 tooling that was pretty much past its prime. These old-school, hefty double square-bridge controlled-round feed actions with iron sights were just too expensive to manufacture and compete with other budget rifles like Tikka, Howa, and Savage.
I have a 550 American in 9.3. Great rifle.
Just a little warning for any *CZ550* Safari Magnum owners, *they RUST easily!!!*
After just one hunt with my .416 Rigby, I had to have it Cerokoted. The Remington and the Winchester in camp didn't rust under the same conditions.
Don't get me wrong, CZ makes a solid rifle; however the bluing is just not up to snuff.
I have one in 458 Lott and I love it
I have one in 9.3x62 and i love it.
Never get rid of it!
I’ve got two!
i got a 550 lux in 458wm for 1600 AUD brand new 3 years ago, good gun
Can you do a video on the modifications if they have been done ?
I was going to buy one to go Alaska.. This is sad for sure. I am kicking myself for selling my cz 550 American a few years ago. When companies don't maintain and update their machines and quality goes down the toilet. Hopefully CZ re-introduces the 550 in the future with better tooling and quality control. If Im not mistaken Winchester model 70 has a Safari model at a similar price point. Of course you have the Ruger African Hawkeye. The problem with both those rifles is that Ruger and Winchester don't make their rifles chambered in cartridges like the .416 Rigby, .458 Lott, and the big 50's.
I've got a CD 550 in 375 h&h, one of my favorite rifles, I've used it on deer and elk, it doesn't blood shoot the animal
I have a 550 in .375 and .416 Rigby. I will have them customized and built eventually and they will be my Kodiak stoppers.
Great rifles to build off of.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 thinking of getting rid of the .375 but the .416 on the other hand not only is it one of my favorite cartridges ever, have fun finding a rifle chambered in it. IMO the sectional density of a 450 gr projectile in .416 caliber is one of the best combinations anyone could look for in a dangerous game load, especially against angry coastal browns and mountain grizz. I cant wait to try it out when the opportunity comes and see that bear not know what hit him in the chest, but also passed completely through his angry 800lb mass of thick bones and tissue and out of his rear. Certainly a follow might be necessary and I will expect it but to see the energy of the .416 pass through him and ripple his mass will be exhilarating. Haha, yeah, I’ve put some thought behind this. 😂
Bought a CZ 550 in .416 Rigby 10 years ago. Not a single problem with feeding or quality of the gun. I just removed the original trigger for a Timney. Shoots one inch groups.
I mourn the 550's ... I'm just glad they still have the Ruger Hawkeye's and Winchester 70's.... in 2020 they're not even producing walnut stocked blued steel versions of the Hawkeye... it's a bad year for "traditional style" hunting rifles
I haven't seen a Winchester Model 70 Safari Deluxe .458 Win Mag being offered in Australia for a couple of years now.
Just bought 2 Hawkeye African Rifles, both had nice wood. 9.3x62 and 280 Ackley Improved. both purchased in July and Aug of 2020 !!! Both were Lipsey's Specials. They are available if you look.
I bought the cz 550 in 375 , but I do plan on sending it up to American hunting rifles and getting a good amount of work done , I do like that it holds 5 + 1 in 375 h and h .
Wayne will take care of you and his work is 100% awesome. He has turned guns that were absolute turds into some of the best rifles I own. The #2 package makes these 550's better than most $15,000 custom guns.
Nice rifle brother 👍 them rounds are beasts they look like cigars
*.458 Lott.* 👍🏼😎
Love your videos more people need to do discover you
Thank you for the kind words.
Will certainly look for one now, .500 J or .505 i guess .
yep. get em while you can
Another reason not to get rid of my Safari 550 Lott .. Mine is an '06 build and is sweet indeed
I’ve always wanted one but no one ever had them in stock!
Palmetto State Armory does right now in .375 H&H.
I have a 416 rigby less than year old. No issues. Around 50 rounds through it so far
@Thorekk Whats masochistic about it? If you can shoot it well and handle the recoil (and cost to feed it) go right ahead and shoot. I have well over 200 rounds through my featherweight .458 Win Mag. It fits me perfectly and I have no issues with the recoil.
R.I.P CZ 550...
I tried to find a cz 550 action for building a safari magnum and had to give up on it😫
There was a time when the Winchester plant in Connecticut closed down and production of the mod.70 came to a stop.This happened right in the middle of the safari boom years and hunters had no choice but to buy CZ 550's if they wanted a controlled round feed rifle that wasn't cast made.This is when CZ sold tons of 550's.
Model 70 production was only stopped for 1 year (2007); and those definately weren't "safari boom years". The New Haven plant closed in late 2006 and the South Carolina FN military plant made Model 70s in 2008. The 550 magnum was very popular after it came out in 1995, mainly because it was half the price of the Model 70 and quality was decent. They really became popular later because they offered it in so many Chamberings like 404 Jeffery, 416 Rigby, 458 Lott, 450 Rigby, 500 Jeffery, and 505 Gibbs. But, CZ was using the ancient Brno ZKK 602 tooling to make modern CZ550 Magnums, and quality issues became common-place. Even PHs in Africa would send their new 550's to a smith to get worked-over. Eventually, quality got so bad that CZ made the decision to stop production instead of completely re-tooling the factory. They are excellent actions to build off of, and I own several. The reality of the 550 Magnum, was that you were getting a cheap rifle that needed a little bit of work out of the box; but once you did that, it was a great rifle.
First I saw the post on the FB group about it and contacted CZ to find out. Jacob at CZ in KCK got back with me on the 25th of Feb and said they were not ending production of the 550 Safari. I quote "We have not stopped production of the 550 Safari series but they can sometimes be hard to find. If you provide the state you live in I can find your closest authorized dealer." The Safari Classic on their website does state it has been discontinued but there is nothing on the website saying the American or Standard Safari has been. Triple Tree in Warsaw Mo that does their custom jobs aren't taking orders because of a shortage of actions. If you heard this from a valid CZ source please elaborate on where your information comes from.
The CZ reps at the SCI convention and the SHOT convention both confirmed that production of the 550 magnum has permanently ceased. CZ is currently moving existing stock and assembling off the last of the magnum receivers in stock. Triple river has less than 100 receivers left, then they are done.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 If the reps are saying it then I'd expect to see something on their website announcing it or something. Apparently they haven't clued in the Jacob the sales rep in kck. Honestly, the only reason I'd get a 550 would be for the 416 rigby. However, as you said in the video by the time you get the features the M70 has you could just by the M70. As far as AHR they do awesome work but if you do the whole #3 package I'd rather save some moremoney and get one of the new Mauser 98 magnums in 416 rigby. The one thing about the 550 I don't like is the lack of an extractor claw support on the bolt like an original mauser, the M70 doesn't have it either but the extractor is more robust and tighter to the bolt body. Regardless there will be alot of used 550's still floating around for a longtime if they do discontinue it.
@@randyc6912 They will remain on the website until the 1000 or so rifles in stock are sold. I agree though, and if you watch my videos you know I am a diehard M70 and Mauser guy. Feel bad for the PHs starting out in Africa. The 550 is always their first big bore (only thing they can afford and reliably get).
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 From a hunting stand point doing away with the 550 safaris is a good way to alienate your customers and very unfortunate for the PH's that don't have the money for something like a double. Piss pour decision in my opinion.
Desert Dog Outdoors , This problem of CZ's not being available to P H's is a prime time for Ruger 77 Hawkeye Safari rifles to take over.
CZ says the 550 magnum series are still going to be produced but the standard lengths will discontinue
That's the way I understand it.
I heard it from the CZ office and confirmed it with the CZ rep at the SHOT show. This was not a "rumor". The 550 (standard and magnum) is no longer being made.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Really sad, do you know if they will still be producing the actions? I just recently built a custom 300 win mag off of a CZ 550. I love the CZ550 actions they are great base for custom projects, very robust. If they still produce the receivers you can just go the custom route and put a krieger and Bell and Carlson on it.
Great tale, but sad it's gone the way so many things have gone in our high tech depressing existence.
Great rifle, but due to the quality concerns, I ended up purchasing a Montana Arms, which I guess is the next best option for an action that can handle the big cartridges anymore. Too bad because its more of a Winchester Model 70 design than the double square bridge Mauser action.
Nothing wrong with the Montana or the model 70 (same design). But the 550 was a cheap way to have a 404J, 458 Lott, 450 Rigby, 500J, or 505 Gibbs. After the #2 upgrade at AHR, you could have a great custom rifle in the $3K range. FYI, I got word 2 days ago that the Montana Rifle Company shut down.
I own a CZ 550 in 375 H&H in South Africa. American Hunter Mag. Imported it from the USA some 20 years ago..... about 20 rounds thriugh the barrel, in mint cindition.
Question, please. Are these Mod 550's still of good quality and worth anything?
Thanks bub , hey , I appreciate it ! 😁
Proud owner of a cz 550 505 Gibbs, with a mussle break.
I have one too - with the American Hunting Rifles #2 package done to it (it had feeding issues and the sights were off).
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Im thinking of converting mine to the 600 Overkill. Just to have.
Wow I paid $850 for mine years ago from the Cabellas gun library in Phoenix, AZ, and another, I don't know, maybe another few hundred for conversion to 375 AI from a gunsmith in Monterey, CA and to get it to feed right in the new chambering. We lengthened the action and chamber some as the magazine would support it. He had to modify the bolt head some. Action smoothed out, works like a charm, has terminal ballistics that is just amazing. MIne holds 5+1 , how much does your Winchester Model 70 hold?
Great video boss keep making them like this one
i had one! it spent more time going back to the custom shop to make it work than i had it in hand. bad chambering ( shells would not come out with out a block of wood on the bolt!) bad barrel, no feeding ever happened. it would not do it. i cut my losses and went with a granite mountain and a good builder, no the 505 gibbs i have works every time!
What I heard is that cz now just producing the 557 rifle . from what I can tell, the 557 is every bit as good as this rifle is. They even share the same detachable magazine, for the models that used detachable magazines of course.
No magnum calibers
I have MN version can't find anything on it? Love the rifle! Just can't find any info on it
I am sad that these Mauser based rifles are going into history.
And being replaced with an inferior design
danietkissenle cheap but less reliable design
Do you think these will go up in value in the future?
Yes, but only the large magnum actions (450R, 458L, 500J, 505G). The barreled actions are the cat's-meow for a custom bolt-action safari rifle chambered in the big hitters.
I have a CZ 550 in .416 Rigby in synthetic stock. I have had it for about 8 years, new condition, never have fired it. I wonder what it might be worth?
Go to Gunbroker and see what they are selling for.
Have the same quality issues been seen in the 30-06 chambering?
Looking at a used one right now.
No, the standard-length actions are good to go.
That Sucks, I like the looks of those 550s, sounds like they went down hill like Remington/Marlin?
CZ has been up and down with quality over the past 5 years. I recall CZ 527 carbines 2-3 years ago were pretty shoddy. Rough bolts. Poorly-inletted stocks. One oddball example of an unsafe trigger that went off without the trigger being pulled. HOWEVER, recent production CZ rifles have been more than excellent. Fit, finish, and function have greatly improved.
@@matthewlee1373 You're right on the money matt. I do notice though new rifles have fairly thin blue though?
depends what you want. the cz short action 557 is actually a great action for 308 length cartridges and it's not really any of a shortcut.
@@cs-rj8ru I have a CZ 557 in 243win, and it's been excellent, barring a few issues. Firstly, the factory crown was rough.... as if carved with a spoon. A quick re-crown job fixed that easily. Secondly, the ejection can be very anemic (or nonexistant) when the bolt is run slowly. This is likely due to improper extractor tension. I got mine for a steal ... so I shouldn't be complaining. Accuracy and trigger are excellent.
I also purchased the 457 rimfire rifle, which had serious stock issues. The stock "pillars" were soft to the touch... so the action would "sink" into the stock while shooting.... until the action migrated far enough that the barrel was no longer free-floated. I dremeled out the original "pillars" and glass-bedded the action to the stock. Problem solved. It's a tackdriver.
I bet it does , I'm saving for it ! Thanks man ! 😁🖒🖒🖒
I wonder if the custom shop will still build it? I know that the custom shop builds a lot of there discontinued rifles in cartridges they don't have listed. Did you ever have the pop up aperture sight that would fold away under a scope? Thanks
the custom shop can't build 550s without actions, which are no longer made. I believe the old Brno 600 rifles from 40 years ago came with the pop up aperture sights.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 I was considering building a custom 550 in 300 H&H mag with the pop-up sight they said no prob. I decided not to. Really more than I need. I decided on 30-06 70 Alaskan and after market aperture sight probably Williams or Lyman but I read Ok Weber in England makes a good vernier that the military uses as a backup for the Remington sniper rifle. Looking into that one too. Thanks
So what big bore calibers will be around for the duration?
Or is it just cz that is calling it quits?
I have a .338 win mag from browning and I want a .375 h&h mag but I hear that's not awesome for Africa and that even grizzlies are better taken with a 416.
375H&H is perfectly fine and will be around forever.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 thanks maybe I'll keep an eye out for a browning a-bolt in 375 to match my browning 338. That's what I was doing until I went down the big bore rabbit 🐇 hole.
I've a question do Kimber or Montana(USA) not make a Double square bridge action in magnum actions??? I'm sure I saw one of them make them a few years ago????
The Montana rifle company went out of business, but was an M70 copy. Kimber is an exact copy of the Model 70. Mayfair and Prechtl still make high-dollar double square-bridge actions for custom builds (Rigby and Westley Richards use these actions).
Really enjoy your vids, and I can say it really got me back into CRF. I was wondering if you have a ruger M77 in your collection, if not you might want to look into one of the early boat paddle stock/all weather versions (stainless). they are exceptional!!
I hate to see them go out of production but they did have some issues with quality.
There has never been a better build platform for the big thumpers though!
Great
Got one in 416 Rigby.
So what’s better the CZ or weatherby Like the 460 weatherby?
The CZ 550 is chambered in some cool rounds but feeding problems with a dangerous game rifle is something you don't want.
That is why most people buy them as a cheap foundation for an awesome custom rifle. For under $5k USD, you can have a badass custom double square-bridge Mauser in 500 Jefferey!
I can’t get enough of your intro music. I often skip intros, but not yours. What is it?
I probably won't be selling my CZ 550 in 9.3 X 62 anytime soon.
Why are they stopping it ?
My 550 Safari Magnum is the 2008.
1What about 550 variations like the 557 ? discontinued too?
I believe the 557 was discontinued a year or two ago.
Thankyou for this info.. I was going to buy a CZ550 Safari Magnum; but due to their recent quality control issues; plus the fact that they have cast receivers; I say good ridance !! I bought a Winchester Model 70 Safari Magnum instead, and think I have made a good choice, The model 70 has a "forged" steel receiver; and that is the way to go IMHO . True that FN does not produce the rare British calibers; but a 375, 416, or 458 should be enough for anyone; and the Winchester was only a couple hundred dollars more than the CZ. I would advise everyone to pay that extra $200. The model 70 is an outstanding rifle, and well worth the price.
They are both machined from a solid forging. But the newer FN-made Model 70s are obviously made with better tooling.
Looks like the next best thing for an "affordable" magnum Mauser action is going to be the Montana Rifle Company Professional Hunter action. In the US at least.
The Montana Rifle Company went out of business early this year.
If I'm not mistaken you can still buy a Zastava in 458 Win and 375 H&H... As for the issues with the CZ's, buy Sauer instead.
Sauer lacks controlled round feed, right?
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Zastava has CRF, so the older Parker Hales and Interarms Mark X
@@DMX-PAT In my opinion, zastava M70 action is more closed to Mauser M98 than cz 550 did
VERY SAD !!!
Can anybody confirm that the 10 round .308 win magazine for the 557 fits the 550 Lux that originally comes with 5 round magazines?
I own one in 30/06 woudnt trade for anything great shooter and beautful
I have the 550 FS in '06 - what a gem.
Same here- I picked one up one over a decade ago. Somehow, it was brand new clearance for less than 5 bills. Every sub-$1k rifle I see on the shelves these days is just meh in comparison. RIP 550
Bought one in .375 H&H. Hope I didn't get a made on a Friday gun. Lol.
Also wanted to know , does anyone know where I could still find a model 70 stainless in 375 ? Love these rifles , the bolt is awesome on these guns ?
They did a special run of them in the Alaskan series about 10 years ago in 375. Gotta find one on the used market.
I have had a couple of the model 70 classic rifles. Good guns I still use 1 for bad weather hunting. For dangerous game you would want the 2 piece bolt rebrazed as I have read they can separate. They are on the used gun sites sometimes. Good luck.
Is it hard to find a good gunsmith to do this ?
Not at all. "American Hunting Rifles" specializes in customizing CZ550s.
Doug Turnbull
@@dr.hugog.hackenbush9443 ok , and ?
I almost bought a 458 lot 8 years ago for 1200 plus tax really kicking myself for not 😢😢😢
Is the reason that CZ ceased production maybe that the 550 was an economical option for a shrinking market? I don’t know the figures, but perhaps the developments in long action cartridges (standard actions these days) has moved the market away from magnum actions. I would think that magnum action length cartridges are really relegated to dangerous game hunting in Africa, which is a really small market share of overall hunting.
The decision was mostly based on the fact that the 60 year old machines and tooling to make the 550 were wore out. Sales volume didn't justify a completely new manufacturing plant.
Did they say why they were ending it?
They ended production over a year ago. A CZ rep told me that it was expensive to produce, and the tooling was in need of complete replacement. CZ's new business model was focusing more on handguns, shotguns, and budget rifles.