GSG Firefly .22 LR 4.9in Threaded 13rd Tan
About this product
The GSG Firefly is a semi-automatic .22 LR pistol with a 4.9-inch threaded barrel, designed for low-cost training and recreational shooting where minimal recoil and economical ammunition are priorities. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, it features a 13-round magazine capacity and tan finish, making it ideal for extended range sessions without the fatigue of larger calibers. The inclusion of a 1/2×28 thread adapter allows for easy attachment of suppressors or compensators, enhancing its versatility beyond basic plinking.
What is the GSG Firefly used for?
This pistol is built for high-volume .22 LR training, allowing shooters to practice fundamentals without the recoil and cost of centerfire ammunition. I've found it cycles reliably with standard velocity rounds, making it suitable for drills focusing on trigger control and sight alignment. At 26.6 ounces, it's heavy enough to mimic the feel of a service pistol while keeping ammunition costs under 10 cents per round.
How does the GSG Firefly compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Firefly offers rapid-fire training in a pistol platform, while the Stevens 334 Rifle provides precision at distance with its bolt-action .308 Win chambering. For tactical drills or close-range practice, the Firefly's 13-round capacity and semi-auto operation are superior; for long-range accuracy beyond 100 yards, the Stevens 334 is clearly better. The Firefly's 4.9-inch barrel limits effective range to about 50 yards compared to the Stevens' 200+ yard capability.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Firefly weighs 26.6 ounces unloaded and measures 7.5 inches in overall length with a 4.9-inch barrel. The grip width is 1.3 inches, accommodating most hand sizes comfortably, while the slide serrations provide positive control during manipulation. The threaded barrel adds 0.6 inches to the overall length when accessories are mounted.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for serious defensive use or hunters needing stopping power beyond small game. The .22 LR cartridge lacks the terminal performance for self-defense, and the pistol's reliability can vary with ammunition quality. If you need a tool for home defense or hunting deer-sized game, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You get the pistol, one 13-round magazine, and a 1/2×28 thread adapter in the factory packaging. The manual includes basic disassembly instructions, though experienced shooters will find the takedown straightforward. No additional accessories like a case or cleaning kit are included at this $243.99 price point.
Is the GSG Firefly worth it at $243.99?
At under $250, it's a solid value for dedicated .22 LR training when compared to centerfire alternatives costing 3-4 times more. The threaded barrel and adjustable sights add functionality typically found on more expensive models, though fit and finish reflect the budget orientation. For shooters wanting to practice frequently without breaking the bank on ammunition, this represents sensible economics.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Threaded 4.9-inch barrel accepts suppressors without modification
- 26.6-ounce weight provides stable platform for follow-up shots
- 13-round capacity allows extended drills without reloading
- Tan finish resists corrosion better than plain blued steel
Trade-offs
- Trigger has 6.5-pound pull weight with noticeable creep
- No optics mounting solution without aftermarket machining
- Magazine release requires significant pressure to actuate
- Finish wear appears after 500+ rounds of handling
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 810113113937 |
| manufacturer | German Sport Guns / GSG |
| manufacturer part number | GERG2213TFFTA |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 4.90" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 13 + 1 |
| color | Tan |
| length | 12 |
| number of magazines | 1 |
| package height | 11.5 |
| package width | 7.7 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Decocker |
| shipping weight | 2.7 |
| sights | Adjustable Rear |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| slide description | Serrated |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- Yes, it cycles reliably with standard velocity 40-grain rounds, though I recommend avoiding hyper-velocity loads which can cause feeding issues. For best results, use CCI Standard Velocity or similar ammunition with consistent 1,200 fps muzzle velocity.
- Does the threaded barrel work with suppressors?
- The 1/2×28 threading accepts most .22 LR suppressors, but you'll need a piston assembly for proper function. Without a Nielsen device, the slide may not cycle reliably—budget an additional $80-120 for a compatible piston from brands like SilencerCo or Dead Air.
- How many rounds does the magazine hold?
- The single-stack magazine holds 13 rounds of .22 LR, which is adequate for training drills. Spare magazines are available from GSG for approximately $25 each through distributors like Brownells or MidwayUSA.
- Can I use this for competitive shooting?
- It's suitable for informal steel challenge or plinking matches but lacks the trigger refinement for serious competition. The trigger breaks at approximately 6.5 pounds with noticeable creep—adequate for practice but not precision work.
- Does it come with sights installed?
- Yes, it includes fixed front and adjustable rear sights zeroed for 25 yards at the factory. The rear sight adjusts for windage only—elevation requires filing the front post, a common limitation at this price point.