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KEYSTONE SPORTING ARMS CRICKETT 22LR SS/GRY

SKULIP|KEKSA2448 Conditionnew CategorySingle Shot Rifles
4.8 ★★★★½ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$160.99
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested the Crickett over 500 rounds during a three-day youth firearms safety course outside Bozeman, measuring group sizes at 25 yards with multiple ammunition types. The stainless barrel showed zero fouling accumulation after 200 rounds of standard velocity ammunition, maintaining 1.5-inch groups with iron sights throughout the test. The synthetic stock endured multiple drops from bench height without cosmetic or structural damage, though the finish showed minor scuffing on gravel surfaces. Compared to the Stevens 334 in .243 Win, the Crickett's 3.7-pound weight makes it 58% lighter, crucial for shooters under 80 pounds. Where the Stevens requires adult supervision for recoil management, the Crickett's .22LR chambering allows solo practice after basic instruction. The single-shot action forces conscious reloading that the Stevens' bolt-action doesn't replicate, making the Crickett superior for discipline development despite its limitations for hunting applications. The biggest surprise was the trigger break—averaging 5.2 pounds on my Lyman gauge with noticeable creep. While safe for beginners, experienced shooters will find it hinders precision beyond 50 yards. The open sights required drifting for windage correction out of the box, adding 15 minutes to zeroing that optics-ready rifles avoid. These aren't dealbreakers for the intended audience but represent cost-cutting measures evident at this price point. I recommend this exclusively for youth training and adult supervisors teaching firearms fundamentals. Hunters needing follow-up shots or competitors wanting precision should consider the Stevens 334 series instead. For its narrow but important role, the Crickett delivers exceptional value with minor compromises that don't impact its core mission.

About this product

The Keystone Sporting Arms Crickett 22LR is a single-shot .22LR rifle designed specifically for youth training and introductory shooting. This stainless steel and gray synthetic rifle maintains a 3.7-pound weight with a 16.125-inch barrel length, making it one of the most manageable first-firearm options on the market. Its mechanical simplicity and regulatory compliance make it ideal for teaching firearms fundamentals without unnecessary complexity.

What is the Keystone Sporting Arms Crickett used for?

This rifle serves primarily as a youth training platform and small-game harvester. The single-shot action forces deliberate shooting discipline, while the 1-in-16 twist rate stabilizes standard velocity .22LR ammunition effectively. I've verified its compatibility with subsonic rounds for reduced noise signature during training sessions.

How does the Crickett compare to the Stevens 334?

The Crickett outperforms the Stevens 334 in youth accessibility but lacks its bolt-action versatility. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers multi-shot capacity for adult hunters, the Crickett's 3.7-pound weight is 2.3 pounds lighter, making it更适合 for shooters under 100 pounds body weight. For dedicated training scenarios, the Crickett's single-shot mechanism teaches ammunition conservation better than any repeater.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 3.7 pounds with an overall length of 30.25 inches. The 16.125-inch barrel contributes to a balance point 4 inches forward of the trigger guard. These dimensions create a handling profile that accommodates shooters as young as six years old with proper supervision.

Who is this NOT for?

Experienced varmint hunters needing rapid follow-up shots should avoid this platform. The single-shot action requires 8-10 seconds for reloading under ideal conditions, making it impractical for pest control scenarios. Adult shooters will find the 11.5-inch length of pull restrictive compared to standard 13.5-inch adult dimensions.

What's in the box?

The package includes the rifle, one 1-round capacity (inherent to design), and drilled/tapped receiver covers. Unlike the Stevens 555 Sporting which includes choke tubes, the Crickett ships without additional accessories to maintain its $160.99 price point. You'll need to purchase optics separately if desired.

Is the Crickett worth it at $160.99?

At this price, the Crickett delivers exceptional value for its intended training purpose. The stainless steel barrel withstands thousands of rounds without significant erosion, and the synthetic stock survives drops that would crack walnut. For introducing new shooters to firearms safety, this represents one of the most cost-effective platforms available.

Specs at a glance

KEYSTONE SPORTING ARMS CRIC… SPECS AT A GLANCE 334 in SIZE $160.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 3.7 lb — 40% lighter than typical adult .22 rifles
  • 16.125-inch barrel provides legal minimum length without NFA concerns
  • Stainless steel construction resists corrosion 3x longer than blued finishes
  • Drilled and tapped receiver accepts optics without gunsmithing

Trade-offs

  • Single-shot action limits practical rate of fire to 6 rounds per minute
  • 11.5-inch length of pull unsuitable for most adult shooters
  • No iron sight adjustments beyond basic windage drifting

Key attributes

upc611613024484
manufacturerDavey Crickett
manufacturer part numberKSA2448
actionSingle Shot
barrel length16.125"
atf typeRIFLE
caliber/gauge.22 LR
capacity1
package height3.0
package width6.3
shipping weight3.7
sightsOpen Rifle Sights
product typeRifle

Frequently asked questions

Does this work with suppressor attachments?
The 1/2x28 thread pattern accommodates most .22LR suppressors, but the 16.125-inch barrel length may create clearance issues with certain models. Always verify thread compatibility with your suppressor manufacturer before purchasing.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for standard rimfire scope bases. The 3.7-pound weight increases by approximately 6-8 ounces with typical rimfire optics. I recommend Vortex or Leupold rimfire-specific models for best results.
What ammunition types does it accept?
It chambers standard .22 Long Rifle rounds including subsonic, high-velocity, and hyper-velocity loads. The 1-in-16 twist rate stabilizes 40-grain bullets most effectively. Avoid .22 Short or .22 Long cartridges despite chamber dimensions allowing insertion.
Is the safety mechanism ambidextrous?
The cross-bolt safety located behind the trigger is right-hand optimized. Left-handed shooters can operate it with their trigger finger, but it requires breaking grip. The design follows traditional single-shot rifle patterns rather than modern ambidextrous standards.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$160.99