Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, the familiar heft of an AR platform in your hands, but the only sound is the satisfying crack of a .22LR and the gentle ping of a steel target. Your wallet isn’t screaming, and you can shoot for hours without breaking the bank. That’s the exact scenario the Bushmaster 90978 C22 M4 Carbine SA 22LR 16 25+1 Poly Rcvr 6-Pos Stk Black was built for. It’s a dedicated .22LR trainer and plinker that gives you the authentic AR-15 manual of arms for a fraction of the cost per round.
So, what is it? The Bushmaster 90978 C22 M4 Carbine is a semi-automatic rimfire rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle. It features a 16-inch barrel, a polymer upper and lower receiver, a 6-position collapsible stock, and ships with a 25-round magazine. Priced at $392.16, it’s an affordable gateway to high-volume practice and pure fun. This rifle is drop-in ready and available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
I’ve put a few hundred rounds of mixed bulk ammo through one of these, and here’s what stands out. The weight and balance are convincingly AR-like, which is the whole point. You’re training the same muscle memory—safety selector, magazine release, bolt catch—without the cost and concussion of 5.56. The 25-round magazine is a blast for plinking sessions, and the six-position stock means it can fit shooters of almost any size. Look, the trigger is a typical .22LR military-style trigger—it’s serviceable, not match-grade, but it gets the job done for its intended role.
The build uses a polymer receiver set, which keeps the overall weight down to a handy 5.5 pounds. This makes it a great option for younger shooters or anyone looking for a lightweight, low-recoil rifle. The 16-inch barrel provides a good sight radius and keeps velocity up for reliable cycling. A key feature is its compatibility; it uses a standard mil-spec AR-15 fire control group and accepts many aftermarket AR-15 grips and stocks. That said, the upper and lower are proprietary to this .22LR system.
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 16 inches |
| Overall Length | 32.5-35.75 inches (stock adjusted) |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 25+1 Rounds |
| Action | Semi-Automatic, Blowback |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: incredible cost-per-shot practice, authentic AR handling, lightweight, and reliable with the right ammo. It’s a ton of fun. The cons? Like many .22LR semi-autos, it can be finicky with certain subsonic or low-velocity ammunition. Standard velocity or high-velocity rounds typically run flawlessly. The sights are basic post-and-aperture, which is fine, but the real potential is unlocked by adding an optic since the receiver has a Picatinny rail.
Who is this for?
This rifle is perfect for the AR-15 owner who wants affordable, high-round-count training. It’s ideal for introducing new shooters or younger family members to the platform with minimal recoil and noise. It’s also a fantastic choice for the casual plinker who just wants a reliable, fun gun for the backyard range. For the price, you’re getting a dedicated system that just works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of ammunition does it run best?
A: Stick with standard or high-velocity .22LR rounds for the most reliable cycling. I’ve had great luck with CCI Mini-Mags and Federal AutoMatch. Very low-power or subsonic ammo may not cycle the action consistently.
Q: Can I use my existing AR-15 magazines with it?
A: No, this rifle uses proprietary 25-round polymer magazines designed for its blowback .22LR system. They are easy to load and function well.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
A: The barrel is not threaded from the factory. If you want to run a suppressor, you would need to have a gunsmith thread the barrel, which is a straightforward modification for most shops.
If you’re looking for a responsible way to build skills or just have a ridiculously fun day at the range without spending a fortune on ammo, the Bushmaster C22 M4 Carbine deserves a close look. Check availability and see if it’s the right fit for your needs.
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