Description
Picture this: you’re scanning a bean field at last light, the wind’s just right, and a coyote silhouette appears at 250 yards. You need a rifle that’s light enough to carry all day, fast-handling in a blind, and packs enough punch to make that shot count—without emptying your wallet. That’s the exact scenario where the Thompson/Center Venture Compact Bolt 22-250 Rem 20″ Barrel, Hogue OverMolded Stock Black, 3rd shines. It’s a purpose-built varmint and predator rifle that delivers serious performance at a price that won’t make you flinch.
The Thompson/Center Venture Compact is a factory-built, short-barreled bolt-action rifle chambered in the flat-shooting 22-250 Remington cartridge. It features a 20-inch barrel for maneuverability, a user-adjustable trigger, and comes mounted in a comfortable Hogue OverMolded stock. Priced at $487.29, it’s a ready-to-hunt package designed for shooters who need a compact, hard-hitting rifle for varmint control and predator hunting.
Let’s talk about where your money actually goes. The heart of the Venture is its sub-MOA accuracy guarantee. That’s a big promise for a rifle in this price bracket, and it’s backed by a crisp, adjustable trigger you can tune down to 2.5 pounds. No gunsmithing required—just a simple hex key adjustment. The 20-inch barrel is the sweet spot for the 22-250: it keeps the overall length down for easy handling in trucks or tight spaces, but still lets that high-velocity round stretch its legs. You’re looking at muzzle velocities well over 3,500 fps with the right 55-grain loads, which translates to a laser-flat trajectory and devastating impact on prairie dogs, coyotes, and bobcats.
The Hogue OverMolded stock is a major value-add. It’s not a cheap, hollow-feeling piece of plastic. The soft, grippy rubber overmold provides a secure hold in all weather, absorbs recoil (not that the 22-250 has much), and deadens sound against brush. The stock is pillar-bedded, which enhances consistency by isolating the barrel from pressure points. It’s a feature you often see on more expensive rifles, and here it just fits out of the box. The compact length of pull is ideal for younger shooters, those wearing bulky jackets, or anyone who prefers a quicker mount.
Here’s the thing—the 22-250 Remington is a legendary varmint cartridge, but it can be barrel-burner. The Venture’s cold hammer-forged barrel is designed for longevity and consistency. The rifle’s controlled round feed and fixed blade ejector provide reliable cycling, a nod to more premium hunting rifle designs. At just under 7 pounds unscoped, it’s a rifle you can carry all day without fatigue. Scope mounting is straightforward, as it’s drilled and tapped for a standard Remington 700 base pattern, making it compatible with popular mounts from brands like Leupold, Warne, and Talley.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 22-250 Remington |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39.5 Inches |
| Weight | 6.75 lbs |
| Stock | Hogue OverMolded, Black |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 Rounds |
| Action | Bolt Action |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: outstanding accuracy guarantee for the price, a fantastic ergonomic stock included, and a compact, hunter-friendly format. The adjustable trigger is a huge plus. The cons? The 22-250 cartridge costs more to feed than a .223 Remington. The compact stock might feel short for very tall shooters, and the rifle comes without optics—budget for a good scope to match its capability. That said, the total package cost, even with a mid-range scope, often stays below many competitors’ rifle-only prices.
Who is this rifle for?
It’s for the Missouri farmer needing a dependable coyote rifle for the back of the UTV. It’s for the first-time varmint hunter wanting a capable, no-fuss rifle without a four-figure price tag. It’s for a parent looking for a quality, compact rifle for a younger hunter that they can eventually use as a handy truck gun. If your priority is practical performance per dollar in a hard-use hunting tool, this Venture Compact hits the mark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 20-inch barrel too short for the 22-250 Remington?
A: Not at all. While you lose a bit of velocity compared to a 24-inch or 26-inch barrel, you’re still well over 3,500 fps with standard loads. The trade-off is a much handier, balanced rifle that’s easier to swing and carry—a major advantage in the field. The ballistic difference is minimal for most varmint and predator hunting ranges.
Q: What kind of scope base does it use?
A: It uses a standard Remington 700 short-action base pattern. This is one of the most common mounting footprints available, so you’ll have countless options from budget to premium brands. A one-piece base or quality two-piece set from Weaver, Leupold, or EGW will work perfectly.
Q: Is the stock adjustable for length of pull?
A: No, the Hogue stock is a fixed, compact design. The length of pull is shorter than a full-size rifle, which is ideal for its intended use and for shooters of smaller stature. For a custom fit, aftermarket spacers can be added, or the stock can be replaced—the barreled action uses a standard inletting.
Ready to see if this compact predator rifle is the right fit for your needs? This Thompson/Center Venture Compact Bolt is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.