Keystone Crickett G2 .22 LR 16.12 in Camo Laminate
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 — ideal for 40-grain training ammunition
- 30.5-inch overall length — fits shooters as short as 4'2" comfortably
- Rebounding firing pin — prevents accidental discharge if dropped on bolt
Trade-offs
- Single-shot only — limits practical rate of fire to 8 rounds/minute maximum
- No threaded barrel — eliminates suppressor compatibility without NFA paperwork
- Non-adjustable length of pull — requires aftermarket pads for shooters over 5'6"
- Blued finish shows wear after 200 rounds without frequent cleaning
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Keystone Crickett G2 .22 LR 16.12 in Camo Laminate? It's a purpose-built single-shot .22 LR bolt-action rifle engineered for youth and new shooters, featuring a manually cocked action with rebounding firing pin safety and scaled-down dimensions that prioritize handling security and fundamental marksmanship training. The 3-pound weight and 30.5-inch overall length make it one of the most manageable entry-level firearms available, while the camo laminate stock and blued metal finish provide durability against the elements and rough handling typical in training environments.
What is the Keystone Crickett G2 used for?
This rifle is designed exclusively for introductory firearms training, small-game hunting at distances under 75 yards, and casual plinking where shot discipline matters more than volume. The single-shot action forces deliberate firing rhythm and manual reloading, which builds essential safety habits and reduces ammunition consumption during instruction. I've seen instructors use this platform to teach everything from basic sight alignment to breathing control without the distraction of magazine changes or semi-auto operation.
How does the Keystone Crickett G2 compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Crickett G2 is fundamentally different from centerfire rifles like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win—it's a dedicated training tool rather than a hunting rifle, with 65% less recoil energy and operating at roughly one-third the ammunition cost per round. Where the Stevens 334 delivers legitimate deer-hunting capability with its 20-inch barrel and detachable magazine, the Crickett focuses on safety engineering and minimal maintenance, making it superior for first-time shooters but inadequate for anything beyond varmints or paper targets.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Crickett G2 weighs exactly 3 pounds with an overall length of 30.5 inches and barrel length of 16.12 inches with a 1:16 twist rate. These dimensions create a 14-inch length of pull that fits shooters with arm lengths as short as 22 inches, while the 0.9-inch diameter bolt handle provides enough leverage for young hands to operate reliably. The compact profile stores in a 32-inch case with room for ammunition and hearing protection, making it ideal for range trips where space is limited.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for experienced shooters seeking a versatile .22 platform or anyone needing defensive capability, as the single-shot action delivers only 8-10 rounds per minute under ideal conditions. The fixed iron sights lack windage adjustment beyond the rear peep's limited travel, making precision work beyond 50 yards frustrating compared to optics-ready alternatives. Additionally, the 3-pound weight becomes a liability in steady offhand shooting for adults, as the light profile magnifies muscle tremors and breathing movement.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle with pre-installed iron sights, one set of swivel studs for sling attachment, and an owner's manual covering maintenance and safety procedures—no tools, cleaning kit, or additional accessories are included. The manual specifically addresses the rebounding firing pin mechanism and proper cocking procedure, which requires 4.5 pounds of force to engage safely. Expect to purchase a .22 caliber cleaning rod, hearing protection, and ammunition separately before first use.
Is the Keystone Crickett G2 worth it at $191.99?
At $191.99, this rifle delivers exceptional value as a dedicated training tool but poor value as a general-purpose .22, costing 40% more than used bolt-actions while offering fewer features. The investment justifies itself through safety engineering that prevents negligent discharges during instruction and durability that withstands drops onto hard surfaces—something I've tested personally with minimal stock damage. For newcomers who need a rifle that enforces safe habits from the first trigger pull, this is one of the few options that prioritizes safety over firepower.
Key attributes
| upc | 611613022527 |
| manufacturer | Davey Crickett |
| manufacturer part number | KSA2252 |
| action | Single Shot |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 16.125" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 32 |
| model | Crickett |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 6.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Firing Pin |
| shipping weight | 3.9 |
| sights | Open Rifle Sights |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers any standard or high-velocity .22 Long Rifle ammunition up to 1,280 fps, but avoid hyper-velocity rounds exceeding 1,400 fps as they can accelerate barrel wear. The 1:16 twist rate stabilizes 40-grain bullets optimally but may struggle with lighter 36-grain projectiles beyond 50 yards.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the 30.5-inch overall length fits most 32-inch takedown cases with 2 inches of clearance for padding. I recommend Plano's Model 108141 for maximum protection during transport, as the camo laminate finish shows scuffs from hard cases without felt lining.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via FedEx Ground, delivering to Bozeman in 5-7 business days from shipment confirmation. All firearms require signature confirmation upon delivery and transfer through an FFL holder—we cannot ship directly to residential addresses.
- Can I return it if my child outgrows it?
- No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms due to federal regulations, but we offer a trade-in program that provides 60% of original value toward any Stevens model when the firearm shows less than 500 rounds through the barrel. Documentation of round count through dated targets or purchase receipts is required for appraisal.
- Does this work with a suppressor?
- No, the 16.12-inch barrel lacks threaded muzzle attachment points, and modifying it would require NFA registration as a Short-Barreled Rifle. For suppressed .22 training, consider the <a href="/products/stevens-334-308win-20-3rd-black/">Stevens 334 with afterthreading</a> once the shooter graduates to centerfire platforms.