Description
The Mossberg Blaze Bantam/Youth .22 LR 16.5″ Barrel Blue Finish Adjustable Sights Black Synthetic Stock 10rd is a purpose-built, compact rimfire rifle designed for introducing new shooters to the fundamentals. It’s a lightweight, reliable, and affordable platform that prioritizes safety and ease of handling, making it an ideal first firearm for training and plinking. With a price of $210.55, it delivers proven Mossberg functionality in a scaled-down package that fits smaller frames without sacrificing core performance.
Key Features
- Youth/Bantam Configuration: Shorter 16.5-inch barrel and reduced-length stock for better control and comfort for smaller-stature shooters.
- Adjustable Sights: Rear sight is adjustable for windage and elevation, allowing for precise zeroing to build marksmanship confidence.
- Lightweight Synthetic Stock: Durable black polymer stock is weather-resistant and keeps the overall weight down for extended handling.
- 10-Round Capacity: Comes with a reliable 10-round detachable box magazine for efficient range sessions.
- Manual Thumb Safety: Easy-to-reach, positive safety located at the rear of the receiver for secure operation.
- Simple Blowback Action: Proven semi-automatic operation that cycles standard and high-velocity .22 LR ammo reliably.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel Length | 16.5 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 34.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 3.5 lbs |
| Stock | Black Synthetic |
| Sights | Adjustable Rear, Blade Front |
Here’s the thing—when it comes to building foundational skills, you need a tool that removes variables. The Mossberg Blaze Bantam does exactly that. Its scaled dimensions mean a young shooter or someone with a smaller frame isn’t struggling to reach the trigger or hoist an unbalanced rifle. The manual of arms is straightforward, promoting safe handling habits from the first session. Weighing just around 3.5 lbs, it’s easy to carry afield for small game or hold steady on the bench. The blowback action is forgiving and cycles a wide range of affordable .22 LR ammunition, which is crucial for keeping training costs low. This rifle is drop-in ready for its role, requiring no gunsmithing to start building confidence and competence behind the trigger.
Who It’s For
This rifle is engineered for a specific mission: foundational training. It’s the perfect first firearm for a youth shooter under direct adult supervision. It’s an excellent choice for a smaller-statured adult seeking a lightweight, low-recoil plinker for the range. Instructors and families looking for a dedicated, cost-effective trainer will find its value undeniable. Even as a casual vermin control tool around the homestead, its compact size and low report make it practical.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Extremely affordable initial cost and ammo expense. Lightweight and proportioned for easier handling by new or young shooters. Simple, rugged design with minimal parts for easy maintenance. Adjustable sights allow for a proper zero. Reliable with most high-velocity .22 LR rounds.
Cons: As a dedicated trainer/youth model, the compact stock may feel too short for average or larger adult shooters. The synthetic stock is functional but not premium. Like many .22 semi-autos, it may prefer certain ammunition for flawless cycling—a little testing finds the right fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the stock length adjustable for growth?
A: The stock is a fixed, shortened synthetic design. It is not length-adjustable. However, its compact size is its core feature for its intended users. As a shooter grows, standard aftermarket stocks for the full-size Mossberg Blaze may offer a replacement path.
Q: What ammunition works best in this rifle?
A: For reliable semi-automatic function, stick with standard or high-velocity .22 Long Rifle rounds. Brands like CCI Mini-Mag, Federal AutoMatch, and Aguila Super Extra are typically excellent performers. It’s always wise to test a few types to see what your specific rifle cycles most reliably.
Q: Can adults use this rifle comfortably?
A: Smaller-statured adults can use it effectively, especially for short training sessions. The compact design is a specific fit—most average-to-larger adults will find the length of pull too short for extended, comfortable use. It’s purpose-built, and that purpose is a compact trainer.
This Mossberg Blaze Bantam/Youth model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. The rifle ships with one 10-round magazine, and its straightforward design means you can focus on training, not troubleshooting. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. If your goal is to introduce shooting sports safely and effectively, this platform provides the proven, no-fuss foundation you need.
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