What You Didn’t Know About the CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish
As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve encountered my fair share of gear. The CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish arrived on my bench during a period where I was seeking more compact magazine options for my CZ 457. My existing 10-round magazines, while functional, often proved cumbersome when shooting from rests or tight positions, frequently snagging on bags or equipment. This particular model promised a reduced profile and the reliability of OEM parts, a combination that piqued my interest. Upon initial inspection, the polymer construction felt robust, though the price point seemed a tad high for what is essentially a plastic magazine. I had previously considered some aftermarket alternatives, but the assurance of genuine CZ fitment ultimately swayed my decision. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping this would resolve the ergonomic challenges I was experiencing.
Real-World Testing: Putting CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial tests took place on a familiar outdoor range, specifically when shooting from a bench rest setup. The goal was to evaluate how this 5-round magazine performed compared to my larger capacity options in a scenario where snagging was a primary concern. I loaded it with Hornady 17 HMR ammunition, and it fed flawlessly into the CZ 457 rifle. The reduced length of the magazine indeed made a noticeable difference, sitting much more comfortably on the sandbag without protruding excessively.
There were no immediate issues or surprises; the magazine simply performed as expected, a welcome relief after some previous experiences with finicky firearm accessories. Its compact nature allowed for a more stable shooting platform, directly addressing the problem I aimed to solve.
Extended Use & Reliability
Weeks turned into months, and this magazine has become a regular fixture in my range bag for my CZ 457 chambered in 17 HMR. It has seen regular use, often being loaded and unloaded multiple times during a single range session. Despite frequent handling and a few accidental drops onto the concrete floor of my workshop, the polymer construction has held up admirably, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after each use is usually sufficient, and compressed air effectively clears any debris from the feed lips or follower. Compared to some budget magazines I’ve used in the past, this CZ OEM part has demonstrated superior reliability and a consistent feed path, a characteristic I’ve come to expect from CZ products.
Breaking Down the Features of CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish
Specifications
The CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish is designed to hold 5 rounds of the potent .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) cartridge. It features a black polymer construction, which contributes to its lightweight and durable nature. The magazine is detachable, allowing for quick and easy reloads, and is specifically designed to fit CZ 455 and CZ 457 models.
The polymer material is chosen for its resistance to corrosion and impact, which is crucial for an item that will be handled frequently and potentially exposed to various environmental conditions. The 5-round capacity is a key specification, offering a balance between sufficient rounds for a shooting session and a reduced physical profile compared to higher-capacity magazines. This is particularly beneficial for shooting from rests or when concealment or compactness is a priority.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this magazine is to reliably feed .17 HMR ammunition into the firearm. In this regard, the CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish performs exceptionally well. The follower moves smoothly, and the feed lips hold cartridges securely yet allow them to be presented to the bolt without issue.
Its main strength lies in its consistent feeding and compact form factor. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is simply its limited capacity compared to 10-round variants, but this is inherent to its design for a specific purpose. For its intended use, it meets and often exceeds expectations, offering a trouble-free experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this CZ magazine is functional and robust. The black polymer construction provides a good tactile grip, and the overall shape is sculpted to fit seamlessly within the magazine well of compatible CZ firearms. It feels sturdy and well-made, without any loose parts or obvious stress points.
Ergonomically, it’s a significant improvement for certain shooting styles over larger magazines. The reduced length makes it easier to handle, especially when shooting from improvised positions or when fine-tuning a rest. There is no learning curve; it inserts and releases intuitively, just like any other standard detachable magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
Under normal use, this magazine is expected to last for a considerable number of rounds. The polymer material is generally resistant to cracking and wear from normal handling. The internal spring and follower are also designed for longevity within the CZ ecosystem.
Maintenance is straightforward; periodic cleaning of the follower and the inside of the magazine body ensures optimal performance. It’s wise to inspect the feed lips for any damage, though the robust polymer makes this less likely than with some metal magazines. Potential concerns are minimal, primarily related to extreme impacts that could potentially chip or crack the polymer, though this is unlikely in typical use.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular product is a standalone component and does not typically come with additional accessories. Its primary function is to be a replacement or supplementary magazine for CZ 455 and CZ 457 rifles in .17 HMR. There are no inherent customization options for the magazine itself, as its design is fixed for optimal performance with its intended firearm.
However, its compatibility with existing CZ platforms means it integrates seamlessly with the rifle’s design. The 5-round capacity is the defined feature, offering a specific advantage over larger magazines.
Pros and Cons of CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish
Pros
- Reliable feeding of .17 HMR ammunition into CZ 455/457 firearms.
- Compact 5-round capacity significantly improves handling from rests and tight positions.
- Durable polymer construction designed for longevity and resistance to environmental factors.
- Genuine CZ OEM part, ensuring excellent fitment and function with compatible rifles.
- Lightweight design reduces overall firearm weight and improves balance.
Cons
- Higher price point for a polymer magazine compared to some aftermarket alternatives.
- Limited capacity compared to 10-round options, requiring more frequent reloads.
- One user reported an issue with bolt closure and a barrel blockage, though this seems to be an isolated incident related to a specific rifle rather than the magazine itself.
Who Should Buy CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish?
This CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish is ideal for CZ 455 and CZ 457 rifle owners who frequently shoot from benches, bags, or other rests. It’s perfect for those who prioritize a lower magazine profile to avoid snagging or improve stability during precision shooting. Shooters who appreciate the reliability of original manufacturer parts will also find this appealing.
Those who require a higher ammunition capacity for rapid follow-up shots or who primarily shoot from standing or unsupported positions might be better served by a 10-round magazine. Individuals on a very tight budget looking for the absolute lowest cost might explore aftermarket options, though with potential trade-offs in reliability. For those seeking enhanced stability and ease of handling in bench rest shooting, this magazine is a solid investment.
Conclusion on CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish
The CZ 12013 CZ 455/457 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) 5 Round Finish is a well-made, reliable component that excels at its intended purpose. It delivers the expected quality and function of a CZ OEM part, providing a significantly more manageable profile for bench rest shooting than larger capacity magazines. While the price is a consideration, the performance and the assurance of a perfect fit make it a worthwhile purchase for the right user.
The value proposition lies in its enhanced ergonomics and unwavering reliability for precision shooting scenarios. I would personally recommend this magazine to any owner of a CZ 455 or 457 chambered in .17 HMR who frequently shoots from a rest. If your priority is a stable shooting platform and you don’t mind slightly more frequent reloads, this compact magazine is an excellent addition to your gear.