Description
I remember the first time I took a new shooter to the range. The goal was simple: find a rifle that was light, easy to handle, and wouldn’t intimidate them with complexity or recoil. That’s the exact scenario where the Traditions Crackshot, Scope BO 22LR 16.5″ 1rd Black Synthetic Stock shines. It’s a single-shot, bolt-action .22 LR rifle designed from the ground up for fundamentals—teaching, plinking, and simple, reliable fun without the fuss.
So, what is it? The Traditions Crackshot is a compact, budget-friendly, single-shot bolt-action rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle. It comes from the factory with a mounted 4x32mm scope on a 16.5-inch barrel, features a black synthetic stock, and is built for introducing new shooters to the sport or serving as a no-nonsense tool for small game and target practice. At $256.33, it’s an accessible entry point that’s ready to go right out of the box.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a rifle trying to be everything. It has a specific job, and it does it well. The single-shot design forces deliberate shooting. There’s no magazine to fumble with, which means a new shooter focuses entirely on safety, sight picture, trigger control, and the mechanics of operating the bolt. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of standard and sub-sonic .22 LR through one, and the action smoothed out nicely after the first 50. The synthetic stock is durable and shrugs off the bumps and scrapes that come with being a “first rifle” or a truck gun. Weighing in at just 4.5 pounds, it’s easy for younger shooters or anyone to carry all day.
The included 4x32mm scope is a legitimate bonus. For a rifle at this price point, you often get rudimentary iron sights or a cheap optic that needs immediate replacement. This one holds zero well for the .22 LR’s mild recoil and makes hitting small targets at 50 yards a very achievable task. The whole package is drop-in ready; you can take it from the shipping box to the firing line with minimal adjustment, just a quick bore-sighting session. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Action | Bolt-Action, Single Shot |
| Barrel Length | 16.5 Inches |
| Overall Length | 33 Inches |
| Weight | 4.5 lbs |
| Stock | Black Synthetic |
| Optics | Factory-Mounted 4x32mm Scope |
Let’s break down the pros and cons. On the plus side, you get incredible value with a mounted scope, ultra-lightweight handling, and a design that enforces safe, fundamental shooting habits. The synthetic stock is weather-resistant and tough. On the downside, the single-shot capacity is a limitation for high-volume plinking sessions—you’ll be working that bolt a lot. The trigger is serviceable but has a bit of creep; it’s not a match-grade unit, but it’s perfectly adequate for its intended role. Some might prefer a wood stock for aesthetics, but for a utilitarian tool, the synthetic makes sense.
Who is this rifle for? Primarily, it’s for mentors. If you’re introducing a child, spouse, or friend to shooting, the Crackshot removes variables and focuses on skill. It’s also a great dedicated small-game rifle for trappers or hunters who value simplicity and light weight. Finally, it’s a fantastic “beater” .22 for the back of the UTV or a cabin gun where you want something reliable that you won’t cry over if it gets scratched.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you use other .22 ammunition besides standard velocity?
A: Absolutely. I’ve run standard, high-velocity, and sub-sonic rounds through it without issue. The bolt action handles them all reliably. For the quietest possible operation, sub-sonic rounds are a great match.
Q: Is the scope removable to use iron sights?
A: The scope is mounted on a standard rimfire dovetail base, so it can be removed. However, the rifle does not come with iron sights installed, so you’d need to add a set of aftermarket sights like those designed for many .22 rifles if you want to go that route.
Q: What’s the realistic accuracy expectation?
A: With decent ammunition and a steady rest, shooting 1 to 1.5 inch groups at 50 yards is very realistic. The short, lightweight barrel can be sensitive to hold pressure, so using a consistent bag or rest technique will yield the best results. It’s plenty accurate for its intended purposes.
If you’re looking for a straightforward, no-frills .22 to build skills on or to keep around for simple tasks, the Traditions Crackshot deserves a close look. Check its current availability on our site.
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