just got a CZ-527 Carbine to convert (pics)

[Drifter]

Couldn't resist. Local gun shop had a couple a while back that I had been considering, but they were sold before I made a move. They just got this one in, and I just had to bring her home.

Nice wood, so my goal is to use the factory stock and select barrel length and contour accordingly for the Grendel conversion. This particular one tips the scales at 5.5 lbs.

I already have a CZ .22, so hoping that I'll get accustomed to the "backwards" safety.

Fuzzy pics, but here she is:






Had to do a double-take upon seeing the image below on the 'net. Wood is very close to what I have. Obviously, it's a much better pic:

[Whelenon]

I like the CZs, should make a nice Grendel.

[melensdad]

I am just starting the SAME project.

My CZ 527 was just ordered and is being shipped to my dealer as I type this. I will probably get down to pick it up on Saturday, or maybe early next week. My plan is to ship it off to McGowen for a new barrel. Probably an 18" with a contour that is very close to the original.

Not sure if I will stay with a blued barrel, I may go for Stainless Steel. What brand barrel are you going to use? What type? Etc?

[LRRPF52]

I see why you're keeping the wood! That's nice. Can't wait to see how it turns out.

[adamjp]

When you get the gunsmith to work on the barrel changeover, make sure you ask them to mill the root of the bolt handle down so you can low mount a scope. IIRC there is a gent in the USA who does this mailorder.

[BjornF16]

Nice wood...are you making a "documentary" in pics for your conversion? Hope so...

[Drifter]

Thanks guys.

Didn't mention it before, but the factory "set trigger" is the cat's meow. Haven't put it to a scale or gauge yet, but its "normal" trigger pull feels like ~5# with a little bit of travel. Or push the trigger forward to "set" it, and it feels like ~1.5# with no creep. In other words, you can make a quick shot without thinking about it, or use the set trigger in appropriate precision applications.

Haven't yet decided on all of the details, but I like the way the rifle looks as is. Theoretically, I would like it to come back looking nearly the same as it does now. (Might even move the iron sights to the Grendel barrel if it doesn't add excessively to the cost.) Even if I go with a stainless barrel, it will likely be coated in black.

I would prefer a cut-rifled barrel in the 18" to 19" range, but not opposed to the right button barrel.

Still seeking out options on where to go with the conversion. Looking for a one-stop shop that can handle the entire project. I've sent out a few inquiries... (Perhaps we need one thread dedicated to known sources for CZ-to-Grendel conversions to make the process a little easier. Lots of info scattered around this forum and elsewhere, but maybe one thread with a list of resources would be helpful.)

It will be tough to send off a brand new unfired rifle, knowing it will likely be months before I see it again (not to mention it will surely cost hundred$ to get it back).


On another note, I'll have a difficult time deciding how to scope this rifle. I often shoot out to 600 yards, but I don't want a big honkin' tactical scope on this little gem. I'm so accustomed to a mil-based reticle with 0.1-mil clicks, but quality options with 1" tubes are rather slim. MidwayUSA offers a 10X Bushnell and a 3-10x Weaver, but not convinced on either one yet. I guess that I'll have a few months to decide, but want something that will allow me to utilize the long-range attributes of the Grendel cartridge without being overkill on such a petite rifle.

Suggestions are welcomed...

[hm2 clark]

Beautiful wood. It's a GOOD idea to get the bolt handle milled out. For a scope, Camera Land advertises on this site and right now the 1.5-8 Minox is on sale.. its a small.short, light hunting scope with superior glass that fits a small grendel well.

[BjornF16]

I have the Minox 1.5-8...not shot with it yet as I plan on using it for another lightweight build based off a Satern Ultra-light...but I'm impressed with Minox glass.

When I was considering a CZ-527 conversion, I was in contact with http://tripleriver.net ... give them a call.

[LRRPF52]

The NF 2.5-10x24 would be ideal if you could get one, but that's extremely difficult to do. It's the size of a 1-4x scope.

Anything much longer than 10" is going to out-size the little carbine's handiness and profile. Are you open to a 30mm tube? I would want something with forgiving exit pupil, since you're sticking with the stock and its comb angle, which will drive you towards lower rings, constrained by the bolt lift.

The March Optics 1-10x24 looks appealing, and I've been wanting to get my hands on one for a long time. I have a bit of experience with the 2.5-25x42, and the glass was extremely clear on it. The illumination probably isn't worth the extra $900 on the March 1-10x24, and the warranty is for 5yrs only. It also has unforgiving exit pupil on 10x, according to this review:

http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_3_18/477965_.html&page=1

It would be nice to have a little 9" long, 1-10x, or 1.5-10x with exceptional glass, solid turrets, a reticle list to choose from, with forgiving exit pupil.

[Hooz]

I've been trying to compile all the CZ 527 information I can find over at http://www.cz527.com for a while. I've got info about adjusting the triggers, aftermarket parts, etc. I've got a thread there dealing with my McGowen Precision 527 Varmint to 300 Blackout conversion, and there is another guy over there who just did the same conversion as you.

[Drifter]

Thanks Hooz. I'll take a look on the cz527 forum.

When I was considering a CZ-527 conversion, I was in contact with http://tripleriver.net ... give them a call.

I've been in contact with them via e-mail. They indicated that they could do the barrel change, but I don't yet have any other details.

The NF 2.5-10x24 would be ideal if you could get one, but that's extremely difficult to do. It's the size of a 1-4x scope.

... Are you open to a 30mm tube?

The March Optics 1-10x24 looks appealing...

That discontinued NF model has actually crossed my mind.

I would like a 1" with all the right features, but will probably have to consider a 30mm with tube-size objective. I have a NF 2.5-10x32, and it just seems too big atop the little CZ.

March had not occurred to me. I'll check that model out.

Thanks

[BjornF16]

That discontinued NF model has actually crossed my mind.

I think the 2.5-10x24 is still in production, just not available to civilian market. That being said, where would one find those?...eBay?