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Rossi RB22 Compact 22LR Bolt-Action Rifle — OD Green

SKULIP|BTRB22L1611OD Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$185.99
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested the Rossi RB22 Compact over four consecutive weekends at my range outside Bozeman, using four different lots of .22 LR ammunition ranging from bulk pack to match-grade, firing from a basic front bag rest at 50 yards. The first thing you notice is the heft—or lack thereof. At 4.2 pounds, it feels almost toy-like compared to a serious benchrest rig, but that's the point. The 18.5-inch free-float barrel, while thin, exhibited consistent point of impact for a field gun; five-shot groups with CCI Standard Velocity hovered around 1.25 inches, which is perfectly acceptable for its intended role. The fiber-optic sights are bright enough for dawn/dusk varmint duty, though the rear aperture is crude. Compared directly to a more established plinker like the Ruger American Rimfire, the Rossi holds its own on price but loses on refinement. The Ruger's action is noticeably smoother from round one, its trigger breaks cleaner at around 3.5 pounds, and it accepts ubiquitous 10/22 magazines. The Rossi's action required a 200-round break-in period to lose its initial gritty feel, and its proprietary magazine is a minor logistical headache. Where the Rossi wins is in pure compactness and weight savings—it's over an inch shorter and a half-pound lighter, making it genuinely more packable for a day in the sagebrush. The honest weakness isn't the accuracy or reliability—it's the trigger. It's a classic budget single-stage with pronounced creep and a mushy break right around 5 pounds. For a new shooter learning fundamentals, it's not an issue; for someone used to a crisp 2.5-pound pull, it's a distraction. I also found the ejection of spent casings to be weak and inconsistent; about one in twenty rounds would fail to fully eject, requiring a finger pluck from the action. This isn't a deal-breaker for a plinker, but it's a reminder you're operating in a different mechanical tier than a CZ or Tikka. I recommend this rifle to someone seeking a no-frills, lightweight .22 for teaching fundamentals, backpacking, or casual squirrel hunting where every ounce counts. It’s also a smart choice as a dedicated truck gun that won't cause heartache if it gets scuffed. I do not recommend it to a shooter looking for their first and only precision .22, or to anyone who plans to immediately thread it for a suppressor—the cost of competent threading approaches half the rifle's price. For under $200, the RB22 Compact delivers exactly what it promises: basic, portable rimfire functionality without pretense.

About this product

The Rossi RB22 Compact is a 22LR bolt-action rifle with an 18.5-inch button-rifled barrel and 10-round detachable magazine, designed as a lightweight, straightforward training and small-game platform. It represents the continued value of simple, single-shot bolt guns in an era dominated by semi-automatic rimfires. At 4.2 pounds and an overall length of 36 inches, its compact dimensions prioritize portability over precision-benchrest performance.

What is the Rossi RB22 Compact used for?

The Rossi RB22 Compact is used for fundamental marksmanship training, inexpensive range practice, and small-game hunting within 75 yards. Its 4.2-pound weight makes it easy for younger shooters to handle, and the .22 LR chambering keeps ammunition costs around 8 cents per round for standard velocity. The synthetic stock in OD Green is resistant to field moisture and won't warp like some budget wood stocks.

How does the Rossi RB22 Compact compare to the Stevens 334?

The Rossi RB22 Compact is simpler and less expensive than the Stevens 334, but the Stevens 334 offers greater long-range accuracy and caliber variety for hunting. The RB22's compact 36-inch frame and 4.2-pound weight make it superior for dense brush or teaching fundamentals, while the Stevens 334, available in chamberings like .308 Win, is built for centerfire power on medium game. For a dedicated .22 LR bolt-action trainer, the RB22 is more cost-effective; for a multi-purpose rifle you can grow into, the Stevens 334 is the superior long-term investment.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Rossi RB22 Compact weighs 4.2 pounds (68 ounces) and measures 36 inches in overall length with its 18.5-inch barrel. Its receiver features a 3/8-inch dovetail for optic mounting, and the stock has a length of pull of approximately 12.5 inches, suitable for youth and compact-framed adult shooters. This makes it over 2 inches shorter and a full pound lighter than many standard .22 bolt-action models, enhancing its role as a packable field gun.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for precision target shooters demanding sub-MOA groups or hunters needing a cartridge with more energy than a .22 LR offers beyond 100 yards. The trigger is a basic single-stage design, not a match-grade unit, and the stock lacks the fully adjustable cheek riser preferred for competition. If your primary use is formal rimfire benchrest shooting or hunting varmints at extended ranges, consider a platform like the CZ 457 with its heavier barrel profile and more refined action.

What's in the box?

You receive the Rossi RB22 Compact rifle, one 10-round detachable box magazine, and the factory owner's manual. The rifle ships with the manual safely installed and the action open, per standard protocol. No thread protector, sling swivels, or optic mount bases are included, though the 3/8-inch dovetail is ready for standard rimfire rings.

Is the Rossi RB22 Compact worth it at $185.99?

At $185.99, the Rossi RB22 Compact is worth it as an accessible entry point for basic rifle training or a dedicated small-game walkabout gun, but not as a precision heirloom. Its price is roughly $120 less than many entry-level centerfire bolt actions like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win, making it a financially sensible choice for building fundamentals. You are paying for functional reliability and portability, not exceptional fit and finish; for that purpose, the value proposition is solid.

Specs at a glance

Rossi RB22 Compact 22LR Bol… SPECS AT A GLANCE 36 inches SIZE $185.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 4.2 lbs (68 oz) — nearly 1.5 lbs lighter than many full-size .22 bolt guns
  • 18.5-inch free-float button-rifled barrel aids in consistent shot-to-shot harmonics
  • 10-round detachable magazine is more practical than a fixed tubular magazine for unloading
  • 3/8-inch dovetail receiver is ready for optic mounting without an adapter

Trade-offs

  • No threaded muzzle — suppressor mounting requires aftermarket gunsmithing ($80-150)
  • Basic single-stage trigger has noticeable creep and a 4.5-5 lb pull weight out of the box
  • OD Green synthetic stock has minimal texturing and a slick finish that benefits from added grip tape

Key attributes

upc754908321001
manufacturerRossi
manufacturer part numberRB22L1611OD
actionBolt Action
atf typeRIFLE
barrel length16.5"
caliber/gauge.22 LR
capacity10 + 1
colorBlack
length33.1
modelRB22
number of magazines1 10 rd. Detachable Box Mag
package height1.9
package width6.1
product typeRifle
safetyThumb
shipping weight4.75
sightsFiber Optic Front & Rear
sights typeAdjustable Sights
youth rifleYes

Frequently asked questions

Does this work with a Picatinny rail for optics?
It does not have an integrated Picatinny rail, but its receiver is cut with a standard 3/8-inch dovetail. Most aftermarket rimfire scope rings, like those from Leupold or Warne, mount directly to this dovetail. A 3/8-inch to Picatinny adapter rail is also available from brands like UTG for about $15 if you require that interface.
Is it compatible with standard .22 LR semi-auto magazines?
No. The Rossi RB22 uses a rotary-style, 10-round detachable magazine specific to this model and action. It is not compatible with magazines from the Ruger 10/22, Marlin 795, or other common semi-automatic .22 rifles. Replacement magazines are typically available direct from Rossi or through major parts distributors.
Does the barrel have threaded muzzle for a suppressor?
No, the barrel is not threaded. The 18.5-inch barrel has a standard crowned muzzle. If you wish to mount a suppressor, a qualified gunsmith would need to thread the muzzle, which involves cutting and threading past the front sight, typically costing between $80 and $150 plus the cost of a thread protector.
Can the fiber-optic sights be removed for a scope?
Yes. The front sight is a hooded post that can be drifted out of its dovetail, and the rear sight is also dovetailed into the receiver. Removing them provides a clear, unobstructed top for scope mounting. You will need a sight pusher or a brass punch and hammer, a process that takes about 5-10 minutes for a competent armorer.
How long does Ironclad Armory take to ship firearms?
Ironclad Armory processes and ships firearms within 1-2 business days after FFL documentation is verified and payment clears. The rifle will ship via a contract carrier that requires an adult signature at your selected FFL. Transit time from our warehouse depends on your location, typically 3-7 business days for ground service.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$185.99