Description
Answer Capsule: The Thompson Center T/CR22 22LR, 20″ Threaded Carbon Fiber Barrel, Blue Altamont Thumbhole Stock, 10rd is a purpose-built, modern rimfire rifle. It combines a lightweight carbon fiber barrel for easy handling with a premium Altamont thumbhole stock for superior ergonomics and a crisp, user-friendly trigger, making it an excellent choice for precision plinking and small game hunting.
Look, I’ve put a few thousand rounds of everything from bulk pack to match-grade .22LR through rifles like this, and the Thompson Center T/CR22 stands out for a specific reason. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone—it’s a dedicated, modern rimfire platform built for shooters who appreciate thoughtful design without the fuss. The combination of that 20-inch threaded carbon fiber barrel and the sculpted blue Altamont thumbhole stock isn’t just for looks; it creates a balance point that makes off-hand shooting surprisingly steady. At $709.03, it sits in a sweet spot between basic utility rifles and high-end custom builds, offering premium features without a custom shop price tag. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Key Features That Matter
- Carbon Fiber-Wrapped Barrel: The 20-inch barrel uses a carbon fiber wrap over a steel liner. This cuts significant weight from the front end—the rifle weighs just 5.5 lbs—without sacrificing accuracy or the ability to mount a suppressor or muzzle device.
- Altamont Thumbhole Stock: This isn’t a generic injection-molded stock. Altamont is known for quality, and this blue laminate thumbhole design provides a natural, ergonomic grip that promotes consistent cheek weld and trigger pull.
- 10/22 Compatibility: Here’s a huge benefit: the T/CR22 uses Ruger 10/22 magazines and is compatible with a vast ecosystem of 10/22 aftermarket triggers and parts. That means customization is drop-in ready, with no gunsmithing required for most upgrades.
- Improved Factory Trigger: Thompson Center listened to feedback. The T/CR22 features a crisp, user-adjustable trigger that’s a marked improvement over many standard rimfire offerings right out of the box.
- Threaded Muzzle (1/2″-28): Ready for a suppressor, compensator, or thread protector. This is a must-have feature for modern rimfire rifles, turning it into a quiet, pleasant plinker with the right can.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel | 20″, Carbon Fiber Wrapped, Threaded 1/2″-28 |
| Stock | Blue Laminate Thumbhole by Altamont |
| Magazine | 10-Round Rotary (Ruger 10/22 compatible) |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5.5 lbs |
Who This Rifle Is For
This T/CR22 configuration is perfect for the shooter who has moved past their first .22 and wants a more refined tool. It’s for the plinker who values a light, pointable rifle for all-day shooting, the hunter who needs a quiet, accurate small game getter, and the tinkerer who appreciates the 10/22 platform but wants a more distinctive starting point. The thumbhole stock and lighter barrel make it exceptionally comfortable for younger shooters or those of smaller stature to manage, as well. If you find yourself annoyed by gritty triggers and front-heavy rifles, this addresses those pains directly.
Straight-Talk Pros & Cons
Pros: The weight distribution is fantastic—the carbon fiber barrel mitigates that muzzle-heavy feel common with sporter barrels. The trigger is genuinely good for a factory offering. The Altamont stock provides real ergonomic benefits, not just aesthetics. And the 10/22 compatibility is a massive win for parts and magazine availability. You’re getting a feature set that often requires aftermarket investment, all integrated from the factory.
Cons: The laminate thumbhole stock is a specific look that won’t appeal to everyone seeking a traditional sporter profile. At this price point, some might expect a second magazine to be included. And while the compatibility is broad, always verify fitment with certain aftermarket 10/22 chassis systems, as the T/CR22 receiver has a unique rear tang.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does it really take all Ruger 10/22 magazines and parts?
A: For the most part, yes. It uses standard 10/22 magazines flawlessly. Most aftermarket triggers (like those from Timney or Volquartsen), barrels, and accessories designed for the 10/22 will fit. The main exception is the stock; the T/CR22 receiver has an integrated rear tang, so it requires a stock inlet for that specific pattern.
Q: How does the carbon fiber barrel affect accuracy and cooling?
A: The carbon fiber wrap provides rigidity and dampening, which can enhance accuracy, while the steel liner handles the firing. In my experience, it maintains consistent accuracy through standard firing strings. The real benefit is the weight savings—it shaves ounces off the front end for quicker handling. It doesn’t cool faster than steel, but for .22LR firing schedules, heat dissipation isn’t a primary concern.
Q: Is the thumbhole stock suitable for left-handed shooters?
A: That said, this particular blue thumbhole stock is configured for right-handed shooters. The thumbhole and cheek piece are shaped for a right-handed grip and cheek weld. Left-handed shooters can operate the rifle, but the ergonomics won’t be ideal. Thompson Center has offered other stock configurations, so check availability if you’re a southpaw.
Final Round
The Thompson Center T/CR22 in this threaded carbon barrel and blue thumbhole trim is a thoughtfully executed rimfire rifle. It takes the legendary 10/22 concept and adds meaningful, functional upgrades where they count: at the trigger, on the barrel, and in the stock. You get a lightweight, accurate, and suppressor-ready platform that’s as at home on a squirrel hunt as it is on the plinking range. It’s a rifle that makes shooting more enjoyable through better design. See if this refined .22 fits your needs at firearms-missouri.com.
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