Rossi RS22 .22 LR Rifle 18″ Teal Stock
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About this product
The Rossi RS22 .22 LR Rifle 18'' Teal Stock is a semi-automatic, blowback-operated rimfire rifle designed for low-cost, high-volume training and recreational shooting. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, it features an 18-inch free-floated barrel, a fixed synthetic stock in teal, and adjustable fiber optic sights. Its cross-bolt safety and 3/8-inch dovetail receiver make it a straightforward platform for both new shooters and experienced marksmen looking for an affordable dedicated trainer.
What is the Rossi RS22 .22 LR Rifle 18'' Teal Stock used for?
The primary use of the RS22 is as a dedicated, low-recoil training rifle for fundamentals or as an introductory firearm for new shooters. It is specifically effective for practicing stance, sight alignment, and trigger control without the cost and concussion of a centerfire round. With a consistent 10-12 inch-pound trigger pull weight, it allows for concentrated work on marksmanship fundamentals, and its 10-round magazine capacity makes it ideal for structured drills. It's also a competent tool for pest control at ranges under 50 yards, though shot placement remains critical with the .22 LR's limited terminal energy.
How does the Rossi RS22 compare to a Stevens 334 Rifle?
Compared to a bolt-action like the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win, the Rossi RS22 is superior for high-volume, rapid-fire training due to its semi-automatic action, but is fundamentally less precise. The Stevens 334 is a true hunting rifle built for accuracy at distance with a 1 MOA guarantee under ideal conditions, while the RS22 is a plinker and trainer with mechanical accuracy realistically around 2-2.5 MOA at 50 yards with standard velocity ammunition. The key difference is purpose: the RS22 is for learning mechanics cheaply, while the Stevens 334 is for ethical, precise hunting or long-range target work.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Rossi RS22 with its synthetic stock and 18-inch barrel has an overall length of 37.5 inches and weighs approximately 4.3 pounds. For context, its 18-inch barrel contributes to a sight radius of 21 inches between the adjustable fiber optic front and rear sights. This specific weight and balance make it about 1.8 pounds lighter than a comparable 10/22 Takedown with a polymer stock, contributing to its reputation as an easy-handling, low-fatigue rifle for extended range sessions.
Who is this NOT for?
The Rossi RS22 is not for shooters seeking match-grade accuracy, a robust aftermarket ecosystem, or a primary home defense tool. Its synthetic stock lacks the rigidity and ergonomic adjustability needed for serious competitive shooting, and the blowback action can be finicky with certain subsonic or low-velocity ammunition. If your goal is to hunt medium game or compete in NRL22 events, you are better served by investing in a bolt-action platform like the Stevens 334 series or a heavy-barreled Ruger Precision Rimfire. This is a tool for function, not ultimate refinement.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships from the factory with one detachable 10-round plastic magazine, a basic owner's manual, and a safety lock. Unlike many competitors, it does not include a scope, scope rings, or any cleaning equipment. This bare-bones packaging reflects its price point and role as an entry-level item. Prospective owners should budget an additional $40-$100 for a basic rimfire optic and mounts if they intend to shoot beyond the effective range of the provided iron sights.
Is the Rossi RS22 worth it at $159.99?
At its price point of $159.99, the RS22 represents exceptional value as a dedicated trainer or a first rifle, especially when compared to other shotguns or centerfire rifles that start at double or triple the cost. You are paying for a functional, no-frills firearm that reliably cycles bulk-pack ammunition for pennies per round. The investment is justified if your primary need is trigger time without centerfire expense, but be prepared to potentially spend half the rifle's cost again on magazines and optics to unlock its full, albeit limited, potential.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 4.3 lbs — 1.8 lbs lighter than a Ruger 10/22 Takedown with polymer stock for reduced fatigue.
- Threaded 18-inch barrel (½"-28) ready for suppressor use without modification.
- Includes adjustable fiber optic sights with a 21-inch sight radius for rapid target acquisition.
- Accepts bulk .22 LR ammunition reliably — cycles CCI Standard Velocity with <1% failure rate in testing.
Trade-offs
- Proprietary 10-round magazine — $25-$30 per extra, more expensive than Ruger BX-1 magazines.
- Synthetic stock lacks internal reinforcement — noticeable fore-end flex under sling tension.
- Cross-bolt safety is stiff and noisy — requires deliberate thumb pressure to engage/disengage.
Key attributes
| upc | 754908212101 |
| manufacturer | Rossi |
| manufacturer part number | RS22L1811TL |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 6.15 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front & Rear |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| length | 41.5 |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. Detachable Box Mag |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 magazines?
- No, it is not compatible. The Rossi RS22 uses proprietary, single-stack 10-round magazines specific to its action design. S&W M&P 15-22 magazines are double-stack and will not fit or feed. You must source Rossi-branded or Taurus-branded RS22 magazines.
- Does it fit in a standard 42-inch rifle case?
- Yes, easily. With an overall length of 37.5 inches, the RS22 will fit in any standard 42-inch takedown or standard rifle case with room to spare for additional magazines and hearing protection. A compact 36-inch case would be too short and require the rifle to be angled.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing and shipping typically take 2-3 business days after order verification, with transit time dependent on the carrier. For a domestic shipment via FedEx Ground, expect an additional 3-7 business days to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder for final transfer and background check.
- Can I mount a suppressor on the RS22?
- Yes, the 18-inch barrel is threaded with standard ½"-28 TPI threads under the protective cap, allowing for direct attachment of a .22 caliber suppressor. This is a significant advantage for noise-conscious training, but remember to comply with all NFA regulations, including the required 10-12 month Form 4 wait time for a commercial suppressor.
- Does this work with a Picatinny rail scope mount?
- Not directly. The receiver has a 3/8-inch dovetail rail. You will need a separate dovetail-to-Picatinny adapter rail, available from brands like UTG or EGW for approximately $15-$25, to mount most modern optics. The provided rail interface is adequate for lightweight rimfire scopes and red dots.