The development of the CZ 600 continues: the series has now been given a technical update. This can be recognised by the designation CZ 600+. The first new model variant is called the CZ 600+ Ergo Driven Hunt. And the name also directly reflects its purpose: it is a genuine driven hunting rifle. As is usual for this type of firearm, safety and functionality in dynamic hunting situations are at the top of the feature list. Added to this are ergonomics and low weight.
CZ 600+ Ergo Driven Hunt: a handy and safe bolt-action rifle
The first thing that immediately catches the eye is the thumbhole stock, i.e. with a large hole behind the pistol grip that allows the grip to be completely enclosed with the strong hand. This allows the gun to be gripped and brought to the ready position with almost absolute control, which also means safety on the hunting ground. The stock of the new CZ 600+ Ergo Driven Hunt is made of polymer and has grip inserts made of a soft, highly visible, orange-colored, non-slip material (polyurethane), which further increases the safety of the gun. Contrary to the current trend, the stock of the "entry-level" guns is not adjustable. However, CZ states that they have studied the average hunter's physical proportions in order to make the stock suitable for as many shooters as possible. The stock is fitted with sling swivels from the German specialist Trigatti as standard.
Technical details, availability & price of the CZ 600+ Driven Hunt
The Driven Hunt is a rifle with a classic design that has all the features of the tried and tested 600 series, but with a few innovations to improve safety and ease of use on the hunting ground.
The safety of the CZ 600+ Ergo Driven Hunt is located in the center of the tang of the stock, directly behind the bolt shroud, and is easy to operate and particularly silent so as not to frighten game with clicks and noises that could be heard at long range. When the safety is engaged, the bolt is locked, but can still be operated or removed by pressing the corresponding disassembly lever. This eliminates the need to release the safety or manipulate the trigger. The bolt is fluted, which contributes to smooth and reliable operation, even in the presence of dirt and grime. Also for safety reasons, the trigger pull weight is adjustable to to four preset weights, from 6 to 13.5 Newtons (equivalent to about 650 to 1,400 grams), which can be selected by turning an adjustment screw with an Allen key. This is a practical solution that makes it possible to adjust the pull weight in practice: the lowest value is not necessarily the safest and most effective choice, especially when used in dynamic hunting situations. The bolt is the classic CZ 600 series, characterised by its smooth action and 60° throw with controlled feed. The black finish of the metal parts is a CZ proprietary nitriding called BoBox.
The new limited edition CZ 600 + Driven Hunt model will be available from specialist retailers in .308 WIn. caliber only from the end of October 2024 at the latest. The RRP is €1,749. Our test gun is already on its way to us and we will soon be presenting it in a practical test with video. Of course, other calibers in the CZ 600+ series are also planned.
Core features of the new CZ 600+ series: interchangeable barrel and new magazine
Basically, the CZ 600+ Ergo Driven Hunt is equipped with all the features of the future CZ 600+ series. This applies in particular to the new and simplified magazine concept, which is designed to allow easier insertion into the gun. The new magazine of the CZ 600+ clicks very securely in the receiver and still allows top loading.
The core feature of the CZ 600+ is the barrel, which can be easily replaced by the user by loosening two Allen screws and tightening them with a torque spanner. This is a very popular solution in several European countries that limit the number of authorised hunting rifles, but not the number of barrels. This makes it possible to use different calibers on one permit. It's great that this idea has now been technically realised in the CZ 600+ series.
The CZ 600+ Driven Hunt model now presented is fitted as standard with a 508 millimeter long, cold hammer forged barrel in .308 Winchester, with a radial compensator mounted on the muzzle thanks to the M15x1 thread, which reduces recoil and muzzle flash. As the rifle weighs 2.9 kg without optics, it is advisable to fit a compensator (or a silencer). Like all CZ rifles, the barrel of the 600+ Driven Hunt is manufactured in-house and is covered by a lifetime warranty that can be activated with your smartphone at the time of purchase. The CZ 600+ Ergo Driven Hunt does not have mechanical sights, but has a two-part Weaver rail: the rear rail has been extended with an additional groove added to the rear of the duralumin receiver to facilitate the mounting of larger-than-average scope rings, such as those required for thermal imagers or night-vision optics.
We are curious to see when additional calibers will be offered in the CZ 600+ series.
Further information can be found on the CZ website.