Description
You’re at the range, watching folks with high-dollar rigs, and you think, “I just want to plink and have fun without emptying my wallet.” That’s the exact gap the Mossberg Model 702 Plinkster 22LR 18″ Barrel Blue Finish Adjustable Sights Thumbhole Stock 10 Round fills. It’s a no-fuss, semi-automatic .22 LR rifle built for affordable practice, pest control, and pure recreational shooting. For a price tag of $215.53, it delivers reliable function where it counts, letting you save your cash for ammo. Here’s the thing—it proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a solid, name-brand rimfire that works.
The Mossberg Model 702 Plinkster is a straightforward, budget-friendly semi-automatic .22 LR rifle. It features an 18-inch barrel with a classic blue finish, adjustable iron sights for easy zeroing, a distinctive thumbhole stock for a stable grip, and comes with a 10-round detachable magazine. It’s designed for low-cost plinking, training, and small game hunting, offering reliable Mossberg performance at an accessible price point. This rifle ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features & Practical Performance
Let’s break down what you’re actually getting. The 18-inch barrel is a sweet spot for a .22 LR. It’s long enough for decent velocity and accuracy but keeps the overall rifle handy and balanced. The adjustable rear sight is a major plus at this price—many competitors have fixed sights. You can dial it in for your preferred ammo, which is crucial because .22s can be picky about point of impact. The thumbhole stock isn’t just for looks; it provides a more natural and ergonomic wrist position, promoting better control and a steadier hold. It’s a feature often found on higher-end target rifles, making its presence here a notable value add.
Operation is simple: load the 10-round magazine, rack the bolt, and fire. The blowback action is proven and generally cycles standard and high-velocity rounds without a hitch. Weighing in at approximately 5.5 pounds, it’s light enough for all-day carry in the field or for younger shooters to handle comfortably. Reliability is the core promise, and the 702 Plinkster delivers a level of it that often surpasses its price bracket. It’s a tool that fits out of the box, requiring no gunsmithing to start making holes in paper or tin cans.
Specifications
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel Length | 18 inches |
| Overall Length | ~39 inches |
| Weight | ~5.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Sights | Adjustable Rear, Blade Front |
The Trade-Offs: Pros & Cons
Pros: The price is the headline. You’re getting a Mossberg for well under what many bolt-action .22s cost. The thumbhole stock and adjustable sights are genuine upgrades over basic models. It’s a fantastic trainer for developing shooting fundamentals without the cost and recoil of centerfire ammo. Magazine availability is good, and aftermarket support exists for those who want to tweak it.
Cons: You’re making trade-offs for that low price. The finish is utilitarian—it’s a working blue, not a showpiece. The trigger pull is functional but not match-grade. Like many semi-auto .22s, it may prefer certain types of ammunition for flawless cycling; a bit of testing finds what works best. It’s a value rifle, not a precision instrument, and it proudly owns that identity.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is the perfect first rifle for a new shooter or a budget-minded addition for an experienced one. It’s ideal for parents teaching kids, for landowners needing a reliable varmint dispatcher, or for anyone who just loves a long, cheap day at the range. If your goal is to shoot a lot for a little, and you want a semi-auto from a trusted brand like Mossberg instead of a no-name clone, the 702 Plinkster is your answer. It’s also a great candidate for simple customization—think adding a basic rimfire scope that’s compatible with standard .22 rings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of ammunition does it run best on?
A: For reliable cycling in most semi-auto .22 LR rifles, including the 702 Plinkster, start with high-velocity 40-grain round-nose ammunition. Brands like CCI Mini-Mags or Federal AutoMatch are often cited as reliable performers. It’s always wise to test a few types to see what your specific rifle likes best.
Q: Can you mount a scope on this model?
A: Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for a scope base, allowing you to easily mount a rimfire scope or red dot. This makes it a versatile platform that can grow with your skills, transitioning from iron sights to optics for more precise shot placement.
Q: Is the magazine easy to find and are extras affordable?
A: Absolutely. The 10-round magazine is a standard Mossberg 702 magazine, and extras are readily available and inexpensive compared to many centerfire rifle mags. Having a few on hand is a good idea for range sessions. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases when ordering online.
If you’ve been looking for a cost-effective way to enjoy shooting more often, the Mossberg 702 Plinkster with its thumbhole stock presents a compelling case. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full details on our site.
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