Keystone Crickett KSA2161 G2 .22 LR Youth Blued
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 3 lbs (48 oz) — 2.1 lbs lighter than an unloaded Stevens 334 .308 Win
- 13.75-inch length of pull is specifically scaled for shooters under 5 feet tall
- Manual-cocking action adds a mandatory 15-second reset between shots for instruction
- 1:16-inch twist rate stabilizes standard 40-grain .22 LR rounds optimally at 25-50 yards
Trade-offs
- Non-threaded barrel requires $75-$120 gunsmith work for suppressor attachment
- Fixed 13.75-inch LOP becomes unusably short for most shooters within 2-3 years of growth
- No included optic base or rings — adds $30-$50 minimum to achieve a scoped configuration
- Blued finish offers minimal corrosion resistance compared to modern nitride or Cerakote
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Keystone Crickett KSA2161 G2 .22 LR Youth Blued? It's a manually-cocked, single-shot bolt-action rifle specifically engineered and dimensionally scaled for youth shooters and adult handlers requiring maximum simplicity. The platform intentionally omits an internal firing mechanism, relying instead on explicit manual cocking via a visible external striker, which reinforces mechanical understanding and procedural discipline at the fundamental level. At 3 pounds unloaded and a 21-inch overall length, its physical handling characteristics are as much a safety feature as they are a training aid.
What is the Keystone Crickett G2 used for?
It is used for foundational marksmanship instruction and introductory small-game hunting under close supervision. The manual-cocking action forces a distinct, audible reset between shots, creating a mandatory pause for evaluation and instruction that automatic repeaters bypass entirely. This mechanical pace is ideal for zeroing muscle memory on stance, trigger press, and sight alignment without the distraction of cycling a round. For its intended application—putting 10 rounds of standard-velocity .22 LR into a 2-inch group at 25 yards under controlled conditions—it is functionally perfect.
How does the Keystone Crickett G2 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Crickett G2 is better for initial, supervised training of shooters under 100 pounds, while the the Stevens 334 is objectively superior for any purpose beyond that. The Stevens platform is a centerfire-capable, 5+1 round magazine-fed action designed for sustained engagement and power applications; it operates at a different mechanical and regulatory level entirely. Comparing them is like comparing a go-kart to a pickup truck—the Crickett's single-shot design and 3-pound weight make it a precision training tool, whereas the Stevens 334 is a general-purpose field rifle with the heft and mechanics to manage .308 Win recoil.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
It weighs 3 pounds (48 ounces) and measures 21 inches in overall length with a 13.75-inch length of pull. The physical profile is deliberately compact: the receiver-to-stock ratio is minimal, and the distance from the trigger guard to the butt plate is calibrated for an average child's arm span. This creates a balanced, non-intimidating handling experience where the weight is distributed rearward, mitigating muzzle dive for a shooter handling a firearm for the first time. The 16.25-inch barrel contributes to this balance, keeping the center of gravity within the shooter's support hand zone.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for any adult seeking a plinking rifle, defensive tool, or competitive training platform. The manual-cocking action and single-shot capacity make follow-up shots a 15-second process involving lifting the bolt, extracting the case, loading a fresh round, pushing the bolt forward, and manually pulling the external striker to the rear—an untenable cadence for practical adult use. If your purpose involves multiple targets, rapid-fire drills, or hunting scenarios requiring a second shot on a moving animal, you need a repeater like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge review or a semi-automatic .22.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with the assembled firearm, an installed front sight and adjustable rear peep sight, and two QD sling swivel studs pre-mounted to the synthetic stock—no optic, sling, or supplementary tools are included. The packaging typically includes a basic owner's manual, a chamber flag for safe transport and storage, and requisite compliance paperwork, but no disposable accessories like snap caps or cleaning kits. You are purchasing the core mechanical platform only; plan an additional $40-$80 for a low-power rimfire scope, rings, and a youth-sized sling to make it range-ready.
Is the Keystone Crickett G2 worth it at $159.99?
At $159.99, it is worth the cost solely as a dedicated, purpose-built trainer for new shooters where simplified operation is the primary objective. You are paying for a mechanically reliable, single-purpose tool that eliminates complexity as a feature—there is no magazine to lose, no feed ramps to foul, and no automatic sear engagement to troubleshoot. For comparison, converting an adult-sized .22 rifle to a youth configuration often costs more in stock alterations and trigger work than this complete rifle. If your requirement is 'first firearm, period,' this price is justifiable; if you need versatility, allocate the budget elsewhere.
Key attributes
| upc | 611613021612 |
| manufacturer | Davey Crickett |
| manufacturer part number | KSA2161 |
| action | Single Shot |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 16.25" |
| 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 | 3.7 |
| sights | Adjustable Sights |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with a standard .22 LR suppressor?
- Yes, the 1/2x28 threaded barrel variant (model KSA2161T) is suppressor-ready, but this blued model has a non-threaded 16.25-inch barrel crown. To run a suppressor, you would need a gunsmith to thread the existing barrel, which typically costs $75-$120 and requires a Form 4 tax stamp approval, adding 8-10 months to the process. I recommend the threaded model from Keystone or a dedicated integrally suppressed .22 platform for youth training if sound mitigation is a primary concern.
- Does this fit a standard rifle case?
- Yes, its 21-inch overall length allows it to fit in most compact rifle cases designed for AR-style pistols or takedown models. For secure transport, look for a case with an internal length of at least 24 inches to provide 1.5 inches of foam padding at both ends. I use a Plano All-Weather 36-inch case for multiple youth firearms, as it provides separate compartments for ammunition and eye/ear protection while keeping the total carry weight under 15 pounds when loaded.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearms for FFL shipment within 2 business days, with transit times varying by carrier and distance—typically 3-7 business days for continental US delivery. The total timeline from order to pickup at your chosen FFL is usually 7-14 calendar days, provided your dealer's license is current on file. You must coordinate directly with your receiving FFL for their transfer fee, which averages $25-$50, and complete a Form 4473 in person before taking possession.
- Can I return it if the length of pull is too short?
- No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms due to fit or dimensional preference after the transfer is complete at the FFL, as per federal regulation and company policy. The 13.75-inch length of pull is a fixed, non-adjustable specification of this youth model. If the shooter outgrows it, aftermarket replacement stocks are available from Boyd's and other manufacturers for approximately $60-$90, or you can sell the firearm through a private party transfer in compliance with your state's laws.