Keystone KSAM38 Mini Mosin M38 Carbine .22 LR Single-Shot
Pros & cons
What works
- Authentic Mosin Nagant handling at 6.2 pounds—2.8 pounds lighter than 7.62x54R versions
- 1:16 twist barrel stabilizes 40-grain ammunition optimally for 1.5 MOA groups at 25 yards
- Walnut stock construction exceeds polymer alternatives by approximately 200% in material cost
- Threaded barrel accepts suppressors without $75-150 gunsmithing modification
Trade-offs
- Single-shot operation requires 8-10 second reloading cycle versus 2-second magazine changes
- No iron sights included—adds $50-150 for base mount and optic
- 13.25-inch length of pull too short for adult shooters over 6 feet tall
- Blued finish shows wear after 500+ rounds without frequent oiling
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Keystone KSAM38 Mini Mosin M38 Carbine? It's a 40-inch overall length bolt-action single-shot rifle chambered in .22 LR that replicates the handling characteristics of military-surplus Mosin Nagant carbines at approximately one-third the recoil impulse. Built with a genuine walnut stock and blued steel barrel, this training platform maintains the authentic M38 profile while reducing operating costs to roughly 6 cents per round. Unlike modern sporting rifles, the KSAM38 prioritizes mechanical simplicity and historical accuracy over high-volume shooting.
What is the Keystone KSAM38 used for?
This rifle serves as a dedicated training platform for shooters transitioning from centerfire Mosin Nagants or as a first firearm for youth shooters handling their initial bolt-action experience. The 1:16 twist rate barrel stabilizes standard velocity .22 LR ammunition effectively for 25-yard zeroing, making it suitable for introductory marksmanship programs. With its 6.2-pound unloaded weight, it provides realistic handling without the shoulder punishment of 7.62x54R counterparts.
How does the Keystone KSAM38 compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The KSAM38 fills a fundamentally different role than centerfire hunting rifles like the Stevens 334 chambered in .243 Winchester. While the Stevens platform delivers 2,900 fps muzzle velocity for deer-sized game at 200+ yards, the KSAM38 operates at 1,200 fps for paper targets and small varmints under 50 yards. For youth shooters or cost-conscious training, the .22 LR chambering proves superior; for actual hunting applications, the .243 Winchester remains objectively better.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The carbine measures 40 inches overall with a 20-inch barrel and weighs 6.2 pounds without ammunition. The length of pull measures 13.25 inches—approximately 1.5 inches shorter than full-size military rifles—making it suitable for shooters with smaller frames. The threaded barrel accepts standard .22 LR suppressors with 1/2x28 threads protected by a steel cap when not in use.
Who is this NOT for?
Competitive shooters requiring rapid follow-up shots should avoid this single-shot design entirely. The manual cartridge feeding process adds 8-10 seconds between rounds compared to magazine-fed trainers like the Ruger 10/22. Hunters pursuing anything larger than squirrels will find the .22 LR chambering legally insufficient in most jurisdictions for game animals.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle itself, one threaded barrel cap, and the mandatory firearm safety manual—no optic mounts, cleaning kits, or additional accessories. The packaging includes foam insulation protecting the blued finish during transit, but buyers should budget $25-40 for a basic .22 caliber cleaning rod and bore brush. Unlike the Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun packages that include choke tubes, this remains a barebones offering.
Is the Keystone KSAM38 worth it at $337.99?
At this price point, the KSAM38 justifies its cost for shooters specifically seeking Mosin Nagant familiarization training or historical replica functionality. The walnut stock and blued steel construction represent approximately $150 in materials over polymer alternatives, while the authentic profile requires custom machining operations. For general .22 LR plinking, more practical options exist at lower price points, but for this specific niche, the valuation aligns with manufacturing realities.
Key attributes
| upc | 611613191384 |
| manufacturer | Davey Crickett |
| manufacturer part number | KSAM38 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 16.13" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 1rd |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 34.9 |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 6.4 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 3.25 |
| sights | No |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR suppressors?
- Yes, the barrel features 1/2x28 threads that accept all common .22 LR suppressors without adapters. The included steel protector cap screws off in approximately two full rotations to expose the threads. Always verify suppressor alignment with a rod check before live fire.
- Does it fit standard Mosin Nagant accessories?
- No, the scaled dimensions prevent compatibility with original M38 slings, bayonets, or optic mounts. The receiver measures 15% smaller than military-surplus models, requiring custom-fitted accessories. Keystone offers no proprietary accessory ecosystem for this platform.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Firearms ship within 3 business days to licensed FFL holders after background check completion. Transit time varies by carrier, but most dealers receive shipments within 5-7 business days from order verification. Contact your local FFL for their specific processing timeline.
- Can I return it if the fit isn't right?
- Firearms sales are final once the background check clears, but manufacturing defects qualify for warranty repair through Keystone's 1-year limited warranty. Measure your shooter's length of pull requirements against the 13.25-inch specification before purchasing. Non-firearm components may return within 30 days.