Keystone Crickett Gen2 22 LR Left-Hand Single Shot Walnut
Pros & cons
What works
- True left-handed bolt action — eliminates the training confusion of a right-handed configuration.
- Weighs only 3 lbs — manageable for youth and smaller-framed shooters.
- Manual-cocking, single-shot operation — enforces a deliberate, safe routine for every round.
- Gen2 EZ Loader — simplifies loading the chamber compared to the first-generation design.
- Genuine walnut stock — provides a classic, stable interface superior to injection-molded plastic.
Trade-offs
- Single-shot only — impractical for any form of rapid fire or informal plinking sessions.
- Manual cocking requires positive effort — the ~8-10 lb bolt stroke is a deliberate barrier, not a smooth action.
- No optic, mount, or sling hardware included — adds $50-$150+ to the initial setup cost.
- 10.5-inch length of pull — too short for most adult shooters without an aftermarket stock spacer.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Keystone Crickett Gen2 22 LR Left-Hand Single Shot Walnut is a manually-cocked, left-handed bolt action trainer rifle designed specifically for introducing new shooters, particularly youth and left-handed individuals, to fundamental firearm safety and marksmanship. Its primary function is to provide a low-pressure, distraction-free platform that forces deliberate control and procedure on every single shot. This generation incorporates specific safety and loading improvements over previous models.
What is the Keystone Crickett Gen2 used for?
This rifle is used for foundational marksmanship training and range practice for new or young shooters. Its single-shot operation and manual-cocking bolt mandate a methodical, safe routine for every round, which is the core value of this platform. It's effective for teaching trigger control, sight alignment, and the basic cycle of operation (load, fire, eject) without the complexity of a magazine or semi-automatic function. At our Ironclad Armory training sessions, we start left-handed youth with this exact rifle because it eliminates the confusion of a right-handed bolt handle.
How does the Keystone Crickett Gen2 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Crickett is functionally simpler and safer as a dedicated trainer than a scaled-down centerfire rifle like the Stevens 334. The Stevens 334 in .243 Win is a capable hunting rifle for adults or larger-framed youth, but its 6 lb weight, longer 20-inch barrel, and powerful cartridge make it a poor choice for initial training. The 3 lb Crickett is less intimidating, its .22 LR round has negligible recoil, and its single-shot action inherently prevents rapid 'mag dumping' which is critical for instilling discipline. For a first rifle, the Crickett's mechanical limitations are its educational strengths; the Stevens 334 is a tool for a later stage.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs approximately 3 lbs, which is about half the weight of a standard Stevens 334 rifle. Its overall length is 33.5 inches with a 16.125-inch barrel, making it compact enough for a smaller shooter to handle comfortably without being overly muzzle-light. The walnut stock has a length of pull of approximately 10.5 inches, which is tailored for a youth or smaller adult frame. These dimensions, combined with the 1:16-inch twist rate barrel optimized for standard velocity .22 LR, create a balanced trainer.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for experienced shooters seeking a plinking rifle or for any application requiring rapid follow-up shots. The manual-cocking, single-shot action makes it deliberately slow, so it's a poor choice for informal target shooting where semi-automatic .22s reign supreme. It's also not ideal for right-handed shooters, as the left-handed bolt configuration will feel awkward and unnatural. Finally, while the walnut is a classic touch, anyone prioritizing absolute minimal weight for backpacking should look at synthetic-stocked alternatives.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle, one set of swivel studs pre-installed, and an EZ Loader mechanism. There is no optic, sling, or carrying case included—this is a bare-platform training rifle. The rifle ships from the distributor ready to fire, but you must supply .22 Long Rifle ammunition and eye/ear protection. Ensure you have a 1-inch sling swivels if you intend to mount a carrying sling, as the studs are installed but the hardware is not included.
Is the Keystone Crickett Gen2 worth it at $191.99?
Yes, at $191.99 it represents solid value as a purpose-built training tool from a reputable manufacturer. You are paying for a dedicated left-handed action, a genuine walnut stock, and the Generation 2 safety/loading upgrades, which is a justifiable premium over a generic right-handed .22 trainer. The cost is less than many high-end .22 optics alone, and the investment is in foundational skills, not features. If your sole goal is to safely and effectively teach a left-handed beginner, this rifle's design justifies its price.
Key attributes
| upc | 611613122388 |
| manufacturer | Davey Crickett |
| manufacturer part number | KSA2238LH |
| action | Single Shot |
| atf type | SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 16.125" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 31.8000 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Firing Pin |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | Open Rifle Sights |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR scopes?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for a standard .22 rimfire scope base, which is a separate purchase. The installed peep sight system can be removed. I recommend a compact 4x fixed-power scope from Vortex or Leupold, as a large variable-power optic will overwhelm the rifle's lightweight 3 lb balance.
- Does the manual-cocking action require extra force?
- The cocking stroke on the bolt handle requires approximately 8-10 lbs of rearward pull to fully retract and re-cock the firing pin. This is a deliberate safety feature, not a defect. It teaches the shooter to manage the rifle's mechanism with positive control, preventing a child from accidentally cycling the action without intent.
- How long is the barrel?
- The barrel length is 16.125 inches, which is a non-NFA length and optimizes the .22 LR cartridge's velocity without being overly long for a youth. The 1:16-inch twist rate stabilizes standard 40-grain lead round nose ammunition, which is what this rifle's training role is designed around.
- Can a right-handed person use this left-handed model?
- Technically yes, but it is mechanically awkward and defeats the training purpose. The bolt handle is on the left side, requiring the right-handed shooter to reach over the rifle or use their support hand to operate it, which breaks proper shooting posture. For a right-handed shooter, purchase the right-handed Crickett model.
- What is the trigger pull weight?
- The factory-set trigger breaks at approximately 3.5 to 4.5 lbs, which is heavier than a match-grade trigger but appropriate for a training rifle. It provides a consistent, deliberate break that reinforces trigger finger discipline without being overly heavy or creepy for a new shooter's finger strength.