Since the introduction of the CZ 600 and its subsequent development into the CZ 600+, one request has come up repeatedly: a version chambered in .17 Hornet. According to the Czech manufacturer, this was among the most frequently requested chamberings at trade shows and during conversations with customers – especially in Europe.
The cartridge had already earned a loyal following in the CZ 527, the bolt-action rifle commonly known as the "mini-Mauser." CZ was among the first rifle manufacturers to adopt Hornady's .17 Hornet cartridge following its introduction in 2012.
With the latest additions to the CZ 600+ lineup, CZ is answering that demand while bringing back two other familiar chamberings, the .22 Hornet and the venerable “double deuce”, the .222 Remington. All three are aimed primarily at hunters looking for a low-recoil rifle for smaller game, predators and varmints. During our interview, CZ identified demand from Germany, Austria and the United Kingdom as a major factor behind the decision to expand the range – although some requests may have also come from this side of the pond.
CZ 600+ American, Ergo and Alpha: Three stock configurations to choose from
The three new chamberings are scheduled to become available in the CZ 600+ American, Ergo and Alpha models. Buyers will therefore be able to choose between different stock designs within the same rifle family.
We had the opportunity to shoot the American and Ergo versions at the range. The Alpha was not available during filming, although CZ expects it to be offered alongside the other two models.
The Ergo occupies a particularly important position in the lineup. According to CZ, it is the most popular version of the series in Germany and Western Europe. For this reason, we have chosen the CZ 600+ Ergo in .17 Hornet for a forthcoming hunting field test. CZ representative Mimmo Schmitter provides further details in our accompanying video.
Small centerfire cartridges for hunting raccoons and nutria
Much of our discussion with CZ focused on European hunting raccoons and nutria, two species for which the manufacturer sees considerable potential in the new chamberings. Marmot hunting was also mentioned as another possible application.
Naturally, selecting the appropriate cartridge and load depends on the animal being hunted, the shooting distance, bullet performance and applicable hunting regulations.
During the interview, the .17 Hornet was discussed with a bullet weighing approximately 20 grains. Its very mild recoil makes the cartridge particularly appealing for these hunting applications.
However, the relatively low bullet weight does not guarantee that a projectile will remain inside the animal without producing an exit wound. Bullet construction and shot placement, among other factors, determine terminal performance. A safe backstop remains essential when hunting with any of these three cartridges.
With or without a suppressor: Why centerfire ignition matters for the .17 Hornet
An important distinction for many European hunters is that all three new CZ 600+ chamberings use centerfire cartridges, as in most European countries (notable exception would be the UK) where the use of suppressors while hunting or practicing for hunting is legal, it is allowed with long guns that fire centerfire ammunition.
This makes the .17 Hornet, .22 Hornet and .222 Remington different from rimfire cartridges such as the .17 HMR, which is not covered by this particular provision.
Of course, legal requirements governing the acquisition, possession and use of suppressors in EU must still be observed.
Adjustable trigger and barrel changes on the CZ 600+
According to CZ, the new chamberings retain the main technical features of the CZ 600+ series, including the adjustable trigger and the accuracy guarantees applicable to each model. The manufacturer does not intend to introduce different trigger pull weights solely because of the smaller cartridges. CZ places all three new chamberings in its Mini action category. The platform also includes Medium and Long action sizes. One of the defining features of the CZ 600+ is its user-changeable barrel system. Caliber conversions are possible within the same action size, provided the particular combination is approved by the manufacturer. Depending on the conversion, changing calibers may also require replacing the bolt head and magazine in addition to the barrel. An important distinction must be made between the original CZ 600 and the later CZ 600+ series: the user-changeable barrel system applies to the Plus models, not the original CZ 600 rifles. Any conversion must comply with the manufacturer's current compatibility specifications and the relevant owner's manual.
First impressions at the shooting range: Minimal recoil and comfortable handling
The first thing we noticed when shooting the .17 Hornet was its exceptionally mild recoil.
The CZ 600+ Ergo chambered for this cartridge proved comfortable and easy to control, allowing us to maintain a clear sight picture throughout the shot. These impressions were obtained without a suppressor. Accuracy also appeared promising during the presentation, although no actual group measurements were provided. These observations therefore represent our initial impressions rather than the results of a comprehensive accuracy test. A more conclusive assessment using different ammunition loads will have to wait for our upcoming field test.
Launch date and pricing of the new CZ 600+ bolt-action rifles
CZ indicated that the European market introduction would begin in October, although no specific retail price in euros was provided.
According to the manufacturer, the new chamberings will not carry a caliber-specific price premium. In other words, CZ 600+ rifles of the same model and equipment configuration should cost the same regardless of chambering. Actual prices and availability will depend on current price lists and individual retailers.
CZ also reports growing interest from third-party accessory manufacturers. The company considers the expanding range of aftermarket components and customization options a sign of the CZ 600 platform's acceptance among shooters.
For all4hunters.com, another opportunity to test the new rifles is already planned. We intend to take the CZ 600+ Ergo in .17 Hornet to Lüdersburg, Germany, for a nutria hunt and a more extensive evaluation.
That should give us a clearer picture of how this combination of a small centerfire cartridge and the Ergo stock performs under actual hunting conditions.
U.S. market availability: At the time of writing, U.S. pricing and availability have not been confirmed for the CZ 600+ American, Ergo or Alpha in the three newly announced chamberings. American readers should consult CZ-USA for updates on domestic model offerings.
