Description
The Mossberg Model 702 Plinkster Bantam 22LR Eighteen Inch Barrel Blue Finish Adjustable Sights Synthetic Stock 10 Round is a compact, budget-friendly semi-automatic rimfire rifle designed for plinking, small game hunting, and introducing new shooters to the sport. It’s a scaled-down version of the classic 702 Plinkster, built with a shorter length of pull to fit younger or smaller-framed shooters perfectly. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of mixed bulk ammo through one, and here’s my take on where it shines and where you might need to manage expectations.
Key Features:
- Bantam-Sized Stock: The 12.5-inch length of pull is the star of the show, making it manageable for youths and adults of smaller stature.
- Reliable Semi-Auto Action: A blowback-operated system that cycles standard and high-velocity .22 LR rounds effectively.
- Practical Sights: Adjustable rear sight for windage and elevation, paired with a blade front sight for quick target acquisition.
- Lightweight & Durable: The synthetic stock shrugs off weather and rough handling, keeping the overall weight down to a nimble 4 pounds.
- 10-Round Detachable Magazine: Comes with one magazine; spares are affordable and easy to find.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel Length | 18 inches |
| Overall Length | 37.5 inches |
| Weight | 4 lbs (approx.) |
| Stock | Synthetic, Bantam (12.5″ LOP) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
Who It’s For: This rifle is a first-gun specialist. It’s ideal for a parent looking for a responsible, low-recoil option to teach a child firearm safety and marksmanship. It’s also a fantastic ‘truck gun’ or casual plinker for an adult who wants a lightweight, no-fuss .22 for dispatching pests or ringing steel on a budget. For the price of $176.24, you’re getting a dedicated tool for a specific job—introduction and fun.
Pros & Cons:
Pros: The fit for a young shooter is genuinely excellent—it’s not an awkward, cut-down adult rifle. It’s simple to operate and clean. The cost of ownership, from the rifle itself to ammo and extra magazines, is incredibly low. Reliability with good ammo is solid for a rimfire in this class. Here’s the thing—it’s drop-in ready for its role right out of the box, no gunsmithing required.
Cons: The trigger is typical for an entry-level .22: it’s heavy and a bit gritty, which can challenge precision shooting. The synthetic stock feels a bit hollow and cheap, because, well, it is. It can be ammo-sensitive; some bulk packs run flawlessly, while others might cause the occasional hiccup. You’ll want to stick with high-velocity rounds for best function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What ammunition works best in the Mossberg 702 Plinkster Bantam?
A: For reliable cycling, use standard or high-velocity copper-plated round nose .22 LR. I’ve had good luck with brands like CCI Mini-Mags and Federal AutoMatch. Avoid sub-sonic and most hollow points for general plinking, as they may not generate enough pressure to cycle the action consistently.
Q: Can an adult comfortably shoot this Bantam model?
A: Yes, but with a caveat. The short stock is designed for smaller frames. An average-sized adult can shoot it, but it will feel very compact. For primarily adult use, the standard full-size Mossberg 702 Plinkster is likely a better fit. This one is purpose-built.
Q: Are extra magazines easy to find?
A: Absolutely. The 10-round magazines for the Mossberg 702 series are widely available from Mossberg, ProMag, and other aftermarket manufacturers. They are a common item at most gun shops and online retailers. Picking up a few spares is a cheap way to extend your range time.
Look, if you need a dedicated, inexpensive trainer rifle that actually fits a new shooter, the Mossberg 702 Plinkster Bantam is a straightforward answer. It performs its intended function without fuss or a big investment. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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