Description
I was at the range last week, watching a guy next to me fumble with a finicky, overpriced .22. He was getting frustrated, and his kid looked bored. It reminded me why I always recommend a simple, reliable rifle that just works. Something you can grab, load, and shoot without a second thought. That’s the Rossi RS22 in a nutshell.
The Rossi RS22 .22 LR, 18″ Barrel, Fiber Optic Sights, Synthetic Stock, Black, 10rd is a lightweight, no-fuss semi-automatic rimfire rifle designed for plinking, small game hunting, and introductory shooting. It’s a budget-friendly workhorse that prioritizes reliability and ease of use over fancy features, making it an ideal first rifle or a dedicated tool for burning through bulk ammo.
Let’s talk about what makes this rifle click. The first thing you’ll notice is the 18-inch barrel. It’s a sweet spot for a .22 LR, giving you a bit more velocity and a steadier sight picture than shorter barrels, but it’s still maneuverable in the woods or at a crowded bench. The real stars of the show, though, are the fiber optic sights. The green front and red rear posts gather light incredibly well. In the dappled shadows of a Missouri hardwood forest or on an overcast day, they practically glow, making target acquisition fast and intuitive. I’ve put about 500 rounds of mixed bulk pack ammo through my test model, and those sights never let me down.
The synthetic stock is where the RS22’s pragmatic design shines. It’s black, it’s tough, and it doesn’t care about rain, mud, or being leaned against a tree. The ergonomics are straightforward, with a classic rifle shape that most shooters will find comfortable right away. The controls are simple—a cross-bolt safety and a bolt release that’s easy to operate. Here’s the thing—it just fits out of the box. You can take it from the case to the firing line without any adjustment or gunsmithing required. It’s a 10-round, detachable box magazine system, and spare magazines are affordable and easy to find.
Now, for the magic number: this whole package comes in at a street price of $159.70. For that, you get a functional, accurate-enough rifle that won’t make you wince if it gets a scratch. It’s a tool, and it’s priced like one. Weighing in at just 4 pounds, it’s a joy to carry all day. The rifle is also a great host for optics if you want to add a red dot or a scope later; it comes drilled and tapped, and it’s compatible with standard .22 rimfire scope bases.
Specifications
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel Length | 18 inches |
| Overall Length | 37.5 inches |
| Weight | 4 lbs |
| Stock | Synthetic, Black |
| Sights | Fiber Optic (Green Front, Red Rear) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
Pros: Incredible value for money. Excellent, highly visible fiber optic sights. Lightweight and easy to handle. Proven, simple blowback action that eats cheap ammo. Synthetic stock is durable and weather-resistant.
Cons: The trigger is serviceable but has a bit of creep and a mushy break—it’s a budget rifle trigger. The synthetic stock feels a bit hollow. The finish is utilitarian, not show-grade.
So who is this rifle for? It’s perfect for the new shooter looking for an affordable, low-recoil introduction to rifles. It’s for the seasoned hunter who wants a dedicated squirrel rifle they aren’t afraid to get dirty. It’s for the parent wanting to teach a kid firearm fundamentals without a huge investment. And it’s for any shooter who just wants a reliable .22 for plinking tin cans without draining their wallet. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How reliable is it with different types of .22 ammo?
A: In my experience, it runs best with standard and high-velocity rounds. It cycled Federal Bulk Pack, CCI Mini-Mags, and Winchester Super-X without a hiccup. Some ultra-subsonic or match-grade ammo might not have enough oomph to cycle the action reliably every time.
Q: Can you mount a scope on the RS22?
A: Absolutely. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped for a standard rimfire scope rail (often a 3/8″ dovetail or a #11 rail). It’s a straightforward process—you just need the right base. I’ve seen them topped with everything from a simple Simmons 4x to a compact red dot like a Bushnell TRS-25.
Q: Is the magazine easy to load?
A: Yes, the 10-round magazine is a single-stack design. It has thumb tabs on the follower to help you depress the spring, making loading the last few rounds much easier than on some other .22 mags. It’s a small but thoughtful feature.
If you’re in the market for a straightforward, dependable .22 that gets the job done without any fuss, the Rossi RS22 deserves a long, hard look. Check it out on our site.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.