Description
I was chasing a squirrel that had been taunting me from the oak tree for weeks. My usual .22 was fine, but it felt like lugging a fence post through the underbrush. Then I got my hands on the Volquartsen Ultralite, 22 LR with Red Lightweight Thumbhole Stock. This rifle is a purpose-built, high-performance .22 LR that redefines lightweight precision. It’s a semi-automatic built on Volquartsen’s renowned action, housed in a stunningly light and ergonomic thumbhole stock, designed for shooters who demand accuracy without the weight penalty. I’ve put about 500 rounds of standard and match-grade ammo through it, and here’s what you need to know.
Look, the first thing you’ll notice is the stock. That vibrant red isn’t just for show—it’s a lightweight composite that shaves off every possible ounce while providing a rock-solid, natural point of aim. The thumbhole design locks your hand into a consistent, repeatable grip, something I appreciated during a long morning of plinking. The whole package comes in at a feathery 4.5 pounds, which makes a world of difference when you’re carrying it for hours or teaching a new shooter. It’s a rifle that begs to be carried and shot, not left in the safe.
The heart of the system is Volquartsen’s own blackened stainless steel action. It’s buttery smooth, with a trigger that’s simply in another league compared to most factory .22s. We’re talking a clean, crisp break right around 2.5 pounds—no creep, no grit. This isn’t just a nice feature; it’s the single biggest contributor to on-target performance. Pair that with the cold hammer-forged, fluted barrel, and you have a platform that consistently outshoots the shooter. I was stacking rounds at 50 yards with boring regularity, using everything from CCI Mini-Mags to more finicky sub-sonics. The accuracy potential here is serious.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a tinkerer’s project. The Volquartsen Ultralite is drop-in ready. You take it out of the box, and it’s a complete, optimized system. The Picatinny rail is machined directly into the receiver, so mounting your favorite optic—I used a Vortex Crossfire II—is straightforward and solid. The magazine release is ambidextrous and positive, and the whole operation is just… refined. It feels like a custom gun because, in many ways, it is. At $1394.96, it sits in a premium niche, but you’re paying for a finished instrument, not a DIY kit.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Action | Semi-Automatic |
| Barrel | 16.5″ Fluted |
| Overall Weight | Approx. 4.5 lbs |
| Stock | Red Lightweight Composite Thumbhole |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds (included) |
Pros: Unmatched lightweight feel for all-day carry. Exceptional out-of-the-box trigger. Outstanding inherent accuracy. The thumbhole stock provides superb ergonomics and control. It’s a complete, no-compromise system.
Cons: The premium price point places it beyond casual plinking budgets. The bright red stock might not be for everyone’s taste (though it grows on you). It’s so nice you might be hesitant to drag it through thick brush—but you should.
Who is this for? This is for the rimfire enthusiast who views .22 shooting as a discipline, not just a pastime. It’s for the hunter who covers miles and wants a rifle that disappears in their hands. It’s an ideal trainer for new shooters due to its light weight and minimal recoil, and a pure joy for experienced marksmen chasing tiny groups. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of optics rail does it have?
A: The receiver has a machined Picatinny rail section, making it compatible with a vast array of standard rings and optics mounts. It’s solid and secure, no adapter plates needed.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
A: Yes, the barrel comes with a standard 1/2″-28 thread pattern under the protective cap, ready for your suppressor or muzzle device. It’s a fantastic host for suppressed shooting.
Q: What magazines does it use?
A: It uses Volquartsen’s own 10-round magazines, which are known for their reliability. They are specific to this action but are robust and feed flawlessly.
If you’re ready to experience a .22 that feels like an extension of your intention, the Volquartsen Ultralite is waiting. See the full details on our site.
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