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Current Production .22 Hornet Rifles: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

Are you searching for the perfect .22 Hornet rifle currently in production? Look no further. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the best current production .22 Hornet rifles available in 2024, covering everything from their features and benefits to their ideal applications. Whether you’re a seasoned varmint hunter, a recreational shooter, or a collector, this article will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. We’ll explore various models, manufacturers, and key considerations to ensure you find the ideal .22 Hornet rifle to meet your specific needs and preferences. Our goal is to provide unparalleled expertise and trustworthiness in guiding you through the selection process.

Understanding the .22 Hornet Cartridge and its Niche

The .22 Hornet cartridge occupies a unique space in the world of firearms. Unlike the .22 Long Rifle, which is primarily known for its affordability and low recoil, the .22 Hornet is a centerfire cartridge designed for small game and varmint hunting at moderate ranges. It offers a significant step up in velocity and energy compared to rimfire cartridges, making it effective against animals like prairie dogs, woodchucks, and even foxes. However, it remains relatively quiet and has minimal recoil, making it a pleasant cartridge to shoot, especially for those sensitive to recoil. Its history is rooted in the need for a more powerful, accurate, and reloadable .22 caliber cartridge than those available in the early 20th century. The cartridge was developed in the 1930s and quickly gained popularity among hunters and target shooters.

The .22 Hornet’s current relevance stems from its continued effectiveness as a varmint cartridge and its appeal to shooters who appreciate its mild recoil and relatively low noise. Recent trends show a renewed interest in smaller, more efficient cartridges, and the .22 Hornet fits this profile perfectly. While it may not be as popular as some other cartridges, it maintains a dedicated following due to its unique combination of performance characteristics.

CZ 527: A Leading .22 Hornet Rifle in Current Production

When discussing current production .22 Hornet rifles, the CZ 527 series immediately comes to mind. Manufactured by Česká Zbrojovka (CZ), these rifles are renowned for their accuracy, reliability, and classic design. The CZ 527 is a bolt-action rifle specifically designed for smaller cartridges like the .22 Hornet. It features a controlled-feed action, a single-set trigger, and a detachable magazine, making it a versatile and user-friendly option for various shooting applications. The CZ 527 is a staple in the .22 Hornet rifle market, highly valued by hunters and target shooters alike.

Detailed Feature Analysis of the CZ 527 .22 Hornet Rifle

The CZ 527 boasts several key features that contribute to its outstanding performance and popularity:

Controlled-Feed Action: This ensures reliable feeding of cartridges from the magazine into the chamber. The cartridge is held securely by the bolt face throughout the feeding process, preventing jams and misfeeds. This is crucial for consistent accuracy, especially in hunting situations where a follow-up shot may be necessary.
Single-Set Trigger: The CZ 527’s single-set trigger allows the shooter to adjust the trigger pull weight for enhanced precision. When set, the trigger pull becomes exceptionally light, enabling more accurate shots, particularly at longer ranges. This feature caters to both experienced shooters and those seeking to improve their accuracy.
Detachable Magazine: The detachable magazine allows for quick and easy reloading. Magazines typically hold 5 rounds, providing ample firepower for most hunting scenarios. The convenience of a detachable magazine makes reloading faster and more efficient, saving valuable time in the field.
Hammer Forged Barrel: The hammer-forged barrel is known for its exceptional accuracy and durability. The forging process hardens the steel, resulting in a barrel that can withstand repeated use and maintain its accuracy over time. This is a critical factor for shooters who demand consistent performance from their rifles.
European Walnut Stock: The CZ 527 typically features a European walnut stock, which provides a comfortable and ergonomic grip. The walnut stock also adds to the rifle’s classic aesthetic appeal. The quality of the wood and its finish contribute to the overall shooting experience.
Integral Dovetail Mount: The receiver is equipped with an integral dovetail mount, allowing for easy mounting of scopes and other optics. This eliminates the need for separate scope bases, simplifying the mounting process and ensuring a secure and stable platform for optics.

Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value of the CZ 527 .22 Hornet

The CZ 527 .22 Hornet offers numerous advantages and benefits that translate into real-world value for shooters:

Exceptional Accuracy: Users consistently report outstanding accuracy with the CZ 527 .22 Hornet. The combination of the controlled-feed action, single-set trigger, and hammer-forged barrel contributes to its ability to consistently deliver tight groups at various distances.
Reliable Performance: The CZ 527 is known for its reliability, ensuring consistent performance in the field. The controlled-feed action and robust construction minimize the risk of malfunctions, providing shooters with peace of mind.
Versatile Application: The .22 Hornet is perfect for varmint hunting, small game hunting, and target shooting. Its combination of power and accuracy makes it suitable for a wide range of shooting activities.
Pleasant Shooting Experience: The .22 Hornet cartridge has minimal recoil and relatively low noise. This makes it a comfortable and enjoyable rifle to shoot, even for extended periods.
Classic Design: The CZ 527’s classic design and European walnut stock give it a timeless appeal. It’s a rifle that looks as good as it shoots, adding to the overall ownership experience.
Easy to Customize: The integral dovetail mount makes it easy to customize the rifle with various optics and accessories, allowing shooters to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences.

A Comprehensive Review of the CZ 527 .22 Hornet

The CZ 527 .22 Hornet is a well-regarded rifle that consistently receives positive reviews from users and experts alike. Our analysis reveals that it stands out for its accuracy, reliability, and overall build quality. The rifle is easy to handle and operate, making it suitable for shooters of all skill levels. The single-set trigger is a particularly noteworthy feature, allowing for exceptionally precise shots when set. The controlled-feed action ensures smooth and reliable feeding of cartridges, minimizing the risk of malfunctions.

Pros:

Exceptional Accuracy: The rifle consistently delivers tight groups, making it ideal for varmint hunting and target shooting.
Reliable Feeding: The controlled-feed action ensures smooth and reliable feeding of cartridges.
Adjustable Trigger: The single-set trigger allows for precise trigger pull adjustment.
High-Quality Construction: The hammer-forged barrel and European walnut stock contribute to the rifle’s durability and classic aesthetic appeal.
Easy Scope Mounting: The integral dovetail mount simplifies the process of mounting optics.

Cons/Limitations:

Magazine Capacity: The 5-round magazine capacity may be limiting for some shooters, particularly in situations where multiple follow-up shots may be required.
Ammunition Availability: .22 Hornet ammunition may not be as readily available as some other cartridges.
Price Point: The CZ 527 may be more expensive than some other .22 Hornet rifles on the market.

Ideal User Profile: The CZ 527 .22 Hornet is best suited for varmint hunters, small game hunters, and target shooters who appreciate accuracy, reliability, and a classic design. It is an excellent choice for those who want a rifle that can deliver consistent performance in the field.

Key Alternatives: The Savage 25 Lightweight Varminter is another popular .22 Hornet rifle, known for its affordability and accuracy. The Ruger 77/22 Hornet is another option, offering a rotary magazine and a different action design.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: The CZ 527 .22 Hornet is a top-tier rifle that offers exceptional accuracy, reliability, and overall build quality. It is highly recommended for shooters who demand the best in performance and craftsmanship.

Exploring Other Current Production .22 Hornet Rifles

While the CZ 527 is a prominent example, other manufacturers also offer quality .22 Hornet rifles in current production. These include Savage Arms, with their Model 25 series known for their lightweight designs and affordability, and Ruger, with the 77/22 series that offers a distinctive rotary magazine system. Each model presents a different set of features and price points, catering to diverse shooter preferences. For example, the Savage Model 25 often appeals to budget-conscious hunters, while the Ruger 77/22 is favored by those who appreciate the unique action and magazine design.

Tips for Choosing the Right .22 Hornet Rifle

Selecting the ideal .22 Hornet rifle involves careful consideration of several factors. First, identify your primary shooting application. Are you primarily varmint hunting, small game hunting, or target shooting? This will help you determine the features and specifications that are most important to you. Next, consider your budget. .22 Hornet rifles range in price from relatively affordable to quite expensive, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. Finally, handle different rifles and see how they feel in your hands. The ergonomics of the rifle can significantly impact your shooting comfort and accuracy.

The Enduring Appeal of .22 Hornet Rifles

Current production .22 Hornet rifles offer a unique blend of accuracy, versatility, and manageable recoil, making them a compelling choice for a variety of shooting applications. From the classic design of the CZ 527 to the affordable utility of the Savage Model 25, there’s a .22 Hornet rifle to suit every shooter’s needs and preferences. We encourage you to explore the options discussed and find the perfect .22 Hornet rifle to enhance your shooting experience. Share your experiences with current production .22 Hornet rifles in the comments below!