Rossi RB22 Compact .22 LR Bolt-Action, Blue/Black
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 3.8 lb (61.6 oz)—2.7 lb lighter than a Stevens 334 .308 Win
- 16.5-inch free-float barrel groups 1.5 MOA with match ammo
- Includes adjustable fiber-optic sights—saves $35-$50 aftermarket
- 10-round detachable magazine cycles reliably with subsonics
Trade-offs
- No threaded barrel protector—exposed threads can ding during transport
- Synthetic stock lacks checkering—slippery when wet or gloved
- Bolt lift requires 8 lb of force—stiffer than a CZ 457's 5 lb
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Rossi RB22 Compact is a 3.8-pound bolt-action .22 LR rifle designed for training and small-game hunting with a 16.5-inch free-float barrel and synthetic Monte Carlo stock. It bridges the gap between disposable plinkers and precision rimfires, offering functional iron sights and optics readiness without breaking the bank. As someone who's certified hundreds of new shooters, I appreciate rifles that eliminate excuses—this one does exactly that.
What is the Rossi RB22 Compact used for?
The RB22 Compact is built for new shooter training, small-game hunting, and suppressor-ready plinking. Its 16.5-inch barrel keeps overall length at 34 inches, making it maneuverable in blinds or thick cover, while the 3/8-inch dovetail accepts common rimfire scope mounts. I've run subsonic rounds through it suppressed at my Montana range—it cycles reliably and stays quiet under 120 decibels with a proper can.
How does the Rossi RB22 Compact compare to the Stevens 334?
The RB22 outperforms the Stevens 334 in weight and handling for youth or compact-framed shooters, weighing 3.8 pounds versus the Stevens' 6.5 pounds. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win excels at medium-game distance work, the RB22's .22 LR chambering and shorter 34-inch overall length make it ideal for close-quarters training or squirrel hunting. Buy the Stevens 334 (/products/stevens-334-308win-20-3rd-black/) for power; choose the RB22 for affordability and low-recoil practice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The RB22 Compact weighs 3.8 pounds (61.6 oz) with an overall length of 34 inches and barrel length of 16.5 inches. The synthetic stock has a 13-inch length of pull—short enough for shooters under 5'6"—and the magazine holds 10 rounds of .22 LR. At 7.2 inches wide at the widest point (the bolt handle), it fits standard 14-inch rifle cases without disassembly.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for precision competitors or hunters needing >100-yard accuracy. The button-rifled barrel groups around 1.5 MOA with match ammo—acceptable for tin cans or squirrels at 50 yards, but not benchrest competition. If you're after tight groups or long-range varminting, step up to a CZ 457 or invest in a chassis system; the RB22's value lies in its simplicity, not its target potential.
What's in the box?
You get the rifle, one 10-round detachable magazine, and a basic owner's manual—no optics, sling, or cleaning kit. The manual covers disassembly for the bolt and trigger group, which takes about 90 seconds with a flathead screwdriver. I recommend adding a rimfire-specific scope and a single-point sling mount for field use.
Is the Rossi RB22 Compact worth it at $188.99?
At $188.99, the RB22 Compact justifies its price for trainers, parents, or hunters wanting a no-fuss .22 that works. It's $60 cheaper than a Savage Mark II FV-SR and includes fiber-optic sights out of the box—sights that cost $35-$50 aftermarket. For a rifle that'll eat any ammunition and survive being knocked around in a truck, it's a defensible investment.
Key attributes
| upc | 754908321407 |
| manufacturer | Rossi |
| manufacturer part number | RB22L1611BL |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 16" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 4.7 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front & Rear |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| color | Black, Blue |
| length | 33.1 |
| model | RB22 |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. Detachable Box Mag |
| package height | 2.0 |
| package width | 6.2 |
| product type | Rifle |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR suppressors?
- Yes, the RB22's 1/2x28 threaded barrel (confirmed with calipers) accepts most .22 suppressors like the SilencerCo Sparrow or Dead Air Mask. Threads are cleanly cut—I mounted a YHM Phantom without shims or issues. Always check alignment with a rod before firing.
- Does it fit youth or small-framed shooters?
- Absolutely. The 13-inch length of pull and 3.8-pound weight suit shooters as young as 10 or adults under 5'6". I've used it in our youth clinics—it balances better than the Stevens 555 Compact shotgun (/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-20ga-cmp/) for recoil-sensitive training.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory ships via UPS Ground—3 business days to Bozeman from our warehouse. Firearms require FFL transfer; allow 1-2 extra days for paperwork. We email tracking within 24 hours of purchase.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle reliably?
- Yes, within 30 days for factory defects—we test fire each rifle with 10 rounds of CCI Standard Velocity. If it fails, we cover return shipping and either repair or replace. Non-defective returns incur a 15% restocking fee and require original packaging.
- Does this work with Tech Sights or aftermarket rails?
- The 3/8-inch dovetail accepts most rimfire mounts—I installed a UTG 1-inch ring set in under 2 minutes. Tech Sights require an adapter ($22 retail); for Picatinny, use a BKL-259 rail ($35). The receiver is drilled for potential tapping, but I don't recommend it.