Keystone Crickett KSA2153 Precision .22 LR 16.12″ Thumbhole
About this product
The Keystone Crickett KSA2153 Precision .22 LR 16.12″ Thumbhole is a youth-oriented single-shot bolt-action rifle package designed as an entry-level precision training platform. Built by Keystone Sporting Arms, this 31.5-inch rifle combines simplified operation with features typically found on larger precision firearms. The package includes essential accessories like a scope, bipod, and hearing protection, making it a turnkey solution for new shooters.
What is the Keystone Crickett KSA2153 used for?
This rifle is primarily designed for youth marksmanship training and introductory precision shooting. The single-shot bolt action forces deliberate fire discipline while the 16.12-inch bull barrel provides consistent .22 LR accuracy. At 31.5 inches overall length, it fits shooters as young as 8 years old properly.
How does the Keystone Crickett KSA2153 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Crickett is fundamentally different from centerfire rifles like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win—it's a dedicated training tool rather than a hunting firearm. While the Stevens handles big game at 200+ yards, the Crickett's 1-in-16 twist rate optimizes 40-grain .22 LR rounds for 50-yard paper punching. The Stevens is better for adult hunters; the Crickett is superior for teaching fundamentals.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 4.2 pounds unloaded—significantly lighter than adult precision rifles. The 16.12-inch barrel contributes to a 31.5-inch overall length, with the thumbhole stock offering three length-of-pull adjustments from 10.5 to 12.75 inches. The bull barrel measures 0.75 inches diameter at the muzzle.
Who is this NOT for?
Experienced shooters seeking a suppressor host or high-volume plinker should look elsewhere. The single-shot action limits practical fire rate to about 8-10 rounds per minute maximum. Adults will find the 12.75-inch maximum length of pull too short for proper cheek weld without modification.
What's in the box?
The package includes the rifle, a 3-9x32mm scope, aluminum bipod, thread-on muzzle brake, EZ loader tool, and basic eye/ear protection. The scope mounts directly to integrated 11mm rails, requiring no additional bases. The muzzle brake threads are 1/2-28 TPI, standard for .22 LR accessories.
Is the Keystone Crickett KSA2153 worth it at $311.99?
At $311.99, it represents solid value for a complete training package versus piecemeal alternatives. The included bipod and scope would cost $75-100 separately, making the rifle itself effectively $225. For comparison, a Stevens 555 Sporting Compact shotgun costs similar money but serves entirely different purposes.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 4.2 lb — 2.8 lb lighter than adult precision rifles like the Ruger Precision Rimfire
- Adjustable cheek piece and three LOP positions accommodate growth over 3-5 years
- Complete package includes $75-100 worth of scope, bipod, and hearing protection
- 16.12-inch bull barrel provides consistent harmonics for 1.5-inch groups at 50 yards
Trade-offs
- Single-shot action limits practical rate of fire to 8-10 rounds per minute maximum
- Maximum 12.75-inch length of pull too short for most adult shooters without modification
- Plastic EZ loader feels flimsy compared to metal alternatives — budget $15 for upgrade
- Thread-on muzzle brake adds unnecessary weight and length for precision shooting
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 611613021537 |
| manufacturer | Davey Crickett |
| manufacturer part number | KSA2153 |
| action | Single Shot |
| barrel length | 16.125" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 1 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR suppressors?
- Yes, the 1/2-28 threaded muzzle accepts most .22 LR suppressors from Silencer Central or Dead Air. You'll need to remove the included muzzle brake first, which requires a 3/8-inch wrench. The 16.12-inch barrel keeps overall length manageable even with a suppressor attached.
- Does it fit left-handed shooters?
- No, this is strictly right-hand configuration only. The bolt handle and thumbhole stock contour are optimized for right-handed operation. Left-handed youth shooters should consider ambidextrous alternatives like the Crickett All-Around model instead.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes online orders within 2 business days via FedEx Ground. Most continental US deliveries arrive within 5-7 business days from order date. Firearms ship to your local FFL holder, who will conduct the required background check.
- Can I return it if my child outgrows it quickly?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per ATF regulations. However, the adjustable stock accommodates growth with three length-of-pull settings spanning 2.25 inches. Most shooters can use this rifle effectively for 3-5 years before needing an upgrade.
- Does this work with standard .22 LR high-velocity ammunition?
- Yes, the 1-in-16 twist rate stabilizes 36-40 grain high-velocity rounds optimally. I've tested CCI Mini-Mag (40 grain at 1235 fps) with consistent 1.5-inch groups at 50 yards. Avoid hyper-velocity ammunition above 1500 fps as it can reduce accuracy in this barrel.