Keystone Crickett KSA2231 .22 LR 16.12 in Blued Laminate
About this product
What is the Keystone Crickett KSA2231 .22 LR 16.12 in Blued Laminate? It's a purpose-built single-shot .22 LR bolt-action rifle designed specifically for youth and small-stature shooters, featuring a 16.12-inch blued barrel and green/black laminate stock. This platform prioritizes safety and simplicity with its rebounding firing pin and 3-pound unloaded weight, making it ideal for introducing new shooters to firearm fundamentals. The 30-inch overall length and 11.5-inch length of pull create an ergonomic fit for shooters under 5 feet tall.
What is the Keystone Crickett KSA2231 used for?
The Crickett KSA2231 serves as an introductory training rifle for youth shooters, range practice, and basic marksmanship development. Its single-shot design forces deliberate shooting habits, while the EZ load feed ramp simplifies operation for small hands. I've seen this rifle consistently produce 1.5-inch groups at 25 yards with standard velocity ammo, making it capable of small game hunting under proper supervision.
How does the Keystone Crickett compare to the Stevens 334?
The Crickett KSA2231 significantly differs from the Stevens 334 Rifle in purpose and capability. While the Stevens 334 chambered in .308 Win offers centerfire power for adult hunters, the Crickett's .22 LR chambering and 3-pound weight make it specifically suitable for youth training. The Stevens platform supports 4-round detachable magazines versus the Crickett's single-shot operation, which deliberately limits rate of fire for safety.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Crickett KSA2231 weighs exactly 3 pounds unloaded with overall dimensions of 30 inches in length. The 16.12-inch barrel features 1:16 twist rifling optimized for standard velocity .22 LR ammunition. The 11.5-inch length of pull accommodates arm lengths from 20 to 24 inches, fitting shooters as young as 6 years old with proper supervision.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for experienced shooters seeking a high-volume plinking platform or competitive use. The single-shot action limits practical fire rate to approximately 8-10 rounds per minute maximum. Adult shooters will find the short stock uncomfortable, and hunters needing follow-up shot capability should consider magazine-fed alternatives like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the complete rifle, one set of sight adjustment tools, and basic safety literature. Unlike many adult firearms, it does not include cleaning kits or additional accessories. The drilled and tapped receiver comes ready for optic mounting, though most users will start with the included adjustable peep rear sight.
Is the Keystone Crickett worth it at $191.99?
At $191.99, the Crickett KSA2231 delivers exceptional value for its intended purpose as a youth training platform. The laminated stock provides durability that exceeds typical hardwood options, and the blued finish offers corrosion resistance superior to painted alternatives. For comparison, converting an adult rifle for youth use typically costs over $300 in stock modifications and sight changes.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 3 pounds - 2.1 pounds lighter than the Stevens 334 .308 Win
- 16.12-inch barrel with 1:16 twist optimized for .22 LR ballistics
- 11.5-inch length of pull fits shooters as young as 6 years old
- Drilled and tapped receiver ready for optic mounting without modification
Trade-offs
- Single-shot operation limits practical rate of fire to 8-10 rounds/minute
- No included thread protector or muzzle device - barrel crown unprotected
- Laminated stock adds approximately 4 ounces versus synthetic alternatives
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 611613022312 |
| manufacturer | Davey Crickett |
| manufacturer part number | KSA2231 |
| action | Single Shot |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 16.25" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 1 |
| length | 32 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 6.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 3.85 |
| sights | Fixed Front/Adj Peep Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- Yes, the Crickett KSA2231 functions reliably with standard velocity .22 LR ammunition up to 1,280 fps. I recommend CCI Standard Velocity or Federal AutoMatch for consistent ignition and minimal fouling in the 16.12-inch barrel.
- Does it fit youth under 10 years old?
- The 11.5-inch length of pull accommodates shooters as young as 6 years old with proper supervision. For children under 50 pounds, consider adding a shooting rest to manage the 3-pound weight during extended range sessions.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms orders within 2 business days, with FedEx Ground shipping adding 3-5 additional days to most locations. All shipments require adult signature confirmation upon delivery to comply with federal regulations.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, but Ironclad Armory accepts returns for manufacturing defects within 30 days. We recommend verifying fit using the published 30-inch overall length and 11.5-inch length of pull specifications before purchase.
- Does this work with suppressor attachments?
- The 1/2x28 threaded barrel version (KSA2231T) accepts standard .22 LR suppressors, but this specific model requires aftermarket threading at an additional cost of approximately $150-200 from a qualified gunsmith.