Description
I was at the range last week, watching a guy struggle with a finicky, expensive .22 plinker that kept jamming. It reminded me why I keep recommending the Kel-Tec Sport Utility Rifle Charlie Stock 22LR 16.1″ Barrel Blue Finish Green Stock 26rd Mag to folks looking for a no-fuss, high-fun rimfire. It’s not trying to be a precision target rifle; it’s a utility player built for volume shooting and pure enjoyment.
So, what is the Kel-Tec Sport Utility Rifle Charlie Stock 22LR 16.1″ Barrel Blue Finish Green Stock 26rd Mag? It’s a lightweight, semi-automatic rimfire rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle. It features a 16.1-inch barrel, a distinctive green polymer “Charlie” stock, a blued steel finish, and comes with a massive 26-round magazine. Designed for casual shooting, plinking, and small game hunting, it emphasizes reliability and high capacity at an accessible price point of $433.80.
Here’s the thing—this rifle gets the fundamentals right. The first thing you’ll notice is the weight, or lack thereof. Tipping the scales at just over 4 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to carry all day. The green “Charlie” stock isn’t just for looks; it provides a solid cheek weld and a comfortable length of pull that works for most shooters. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of standard and high-velocity .22LR through my test model, and it ran without a hiccup. The action is simple blowback, and it’s drop-in ready—no gunsmithing required to get it running straight from the case.
The star of the show might just be that 26-round magazine. It changes the entire experience. Instead of constant reloading every 10 shots, you can focus on your technique, plinking reactionary targets, or just enjoying a longer session without interruption. The magazine itself is robust and feeds smoothly. At 37.5 inches overall length, the rifle handles nimbly, whether you’re moving between benches or navigating brush.
Let’s talk about the blue finish on the barrel and receiver. It’s a classic, durable finish that resists the elements reasonably well for a rimfire in this price class. The 16.1-inch barrel provides a good balance between velocity and maneuverability. Is it a sub-MOA tack-driver? No, and it doesn’t pretend to be. But for ringing steel at 50 yards or dispatching pests in the garden, it’s more than capable. The sights are basic but effective—a blade front and an adjustable notch rear that get the job done. Many owners, myself included, find it’s a perfect host for a compatible red dot sight like a Bushnell TRS-25, which mounts easily on the included Picatinny rail.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel Length | 16.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 37.5 inches |
| Weight (unloaded) | 4.2 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 26 Rounds |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Green Polymer Stock |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: fantastic magazine capacity, very lightweight, reliable with quality ammo, and a straightforward design that’s easy to maintain. The price is a major plus, too. Cons? The trigger pull is utilitarian—it’s a bit heavy and mushy, which is common in this segment. The stock, while comfortable, is a fixed design, so you can’t adjust it. And while it eats most ammo, it can be picky with some subsonic or extremely dirty rounds.
Who is this for? This rifle is for the Missouri shooter who wants a fun, low-recoil plinker that won’t break the bank on the purchase or the ammo. It’s ideal for introducing new shooters, for long afternoons of casual target practice, or for keeping in the truck as a versatile tool for small game. It’s a workhorse, not a show pony.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of ammunition does it run best with?
A: In my experience, it cycles high-velocity 40-grain round-nose .22LR most reliably. Standard velocity usually works, but I’d avoid bulk-pack ammo that’s excessively dirty or wax-coated, as it can lead to more frequent cleaning.
Q: Are extra magazines available and are they expensive?
A: Yes, Kel-Tec produces and sells additional 26-round magazines. They are reasonably priced and widely available, which is great because you’ll want a few for a full range session.
Q: Can you mount optics on this rifle?
A: Absolutely. The receiver comes with a built-in Picatinny rail section, making it simple to mount a red dot or a low-power scope. It’s a popular upgrade that enhances the fun factor significantly.
If the idea of a lightweight, high-capacity .22 that’s just plain fun to shoot sounds right, the Kel-Tec SU-22C deserves a close look. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Check current availability and see if it’s the right utility rimfire for your collection.
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