Keystone Crickett G2 .22 WMR — Blued, Black Synthetic

About this product

The Keystone Crickett G2 .22 WMR is a compact, single-shot bolt-action rifle specifically designed as a minimalist training platform. This particular configuration uses a corrosion-resistant blued finish on its carbon steel action paired with a lightweight, injection-molded black synthetic stock. I would categorize it under the 'first firearm' or 'fundamentals rifle' niche, existing purely to give a new shooter the mechanical repetition needed to develop proper sight alignment, trigger discipline, and bolt manipulation without the distraction of magazine changes or complex manual-of-arms.

What is the Keystone Crickett G2 used for?

This rifle’s primary function is to serve as a dedicated training platform for new shooters, particularly younger individuals or smaller-framed adults. The single-shot bolt action enforces a deliberate pace and forces the shooter to interface with the action for every round, which ingrains safety and manipulation habits from day one. Its light 3-pound weight and 30.5-inch overall length make it manageable from a bench or in the field for small-game hunting, though the .22 WMR cartridge limits its ethical range for varmints to about 75 yards with standard ammunition.

How does the Keystone Crickett G2 compare to the Savage Rascal?

The Crickett G2 is mechanically simpler and lighter than the Savage Rascal, making it a more purely focused trainer. Where the Savage Rascal often includes an adjustable AccuTrigger and sometimes comes with an integrated scope base, the Crickett uses a simpler, rebounding firing pin safety system and requires the purchase of aftermarket scope mounts. The G2’s synthetic stock is about 8 ounces lighter than many Rascal configurations, which is a significant difference for a youth shooter, but the Savage typically offers superior out-of-the-box trigger feel. For a pure 'first gun' where simplicity and absolute minimum weight are the goals, the Crickett wins; for a platform a shooter might grow with a bit longer, the Savage Rascal is a better long-term value.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 3 pounds (48 ounces) unloaded and measures 30.5 inches in total length. The barrel length is a standard 16.25 inches, which balances the .22 WMR cartridge's velocity potential with the rifle's compact handling profile. The length of pull is approximately 11.5 inches, which is tailored for a youth or small-statured shooter, and the drop at comb is minimal to promote a consistent cheek weld even without a raised optic.

Who is this NOT for?

This is a poor choice for any adult seeking a general-purpose .22 Magnum rifle for plinking or pest control. The single-shot action is prohibitively slow for follow-up shots, and the lightweight, compact stock will be uncomfortable for most average-sized adults to shoot for extended sessions. Anyone looking for a versatile, multi-role rimfire should instead consider a magazine-fed bolt-action like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win or a semi-automatic .22 LR platform. This is a tool with one job.

What’s in the box?

You receive the complete rifle with factory-installed iron sights and swivel studs, a single 0.22-caliber bore snake for basic cleaning, and the required firearm safety manual and lock. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped with a 6-48 thread pattern, compatible with Crickett-brand scope mounts which must be purchased separately. No scope, mounts, or sling are included, which keeps the initial cost down but requires an additional $30-$80 investment to move beyond iron sights.

Is the Keystone Crickett G2 worth it at $127.99?

At this price point, it represents a competent, no-frills entry into firearm ownership and marksmanship fundamentals. You are paying for a safe, functional action, a durable synthetic stock, and a respected brand name in the training rifle space—not for premium finishes or features. Compared to similar single-shot youth rifles that often start around $150, the $127.99 tag is competitive, especially for an online-only purchase. If your goal is to teach safety and basics without financial ceremony, this rifle justifies its cost. If you envision needing quicker follow-up shots or a more adjustable platform within a year, you are better served allocating that budget toward a used, magazine-fed model.