The Keystone Crickett My First Rifle Gen2 22 LR 16.1″ M81 Camo is a single-shot bolt-action youth trainer designed for introducing new shooters to safe, accurate marksmanship. Chambered for .22 LR, .22 Long, and .22 Short, this compact rifle features a rebounding firing pin that blocks the firing mechanism to help prevent accidental discharge, an adjustable rear peep sight, and a fixed front post for straightforward sighting. The lightweight synthetic fixed stock in M81 Woodland camo provides durability and concealment for field use.
| Manufacturer | Keystone Sporting Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Crickett My First Rifle Gen2 |
| Material | Synthetic stock, steel barrel and action (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .22 Short, .22 Long, .22 LR |
| Finish | M81 Woodland Camo synthetic stock, blued steel |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Rebounding Firing Pin – This mechanism blocks the firing pin after each shot, preventing accidental discharge if the rifle is dropped or jarred. Critical for training new shooters who may not yet have perfect muzzle discipline.
- Adjustable Rear Peep Sight – Allows windage and elevation adjustments for zeroing at common youth shooting distances (25-50 yards). Improves accuracy consistency over open notch sights.
- EZ Loader System – A built-in loading ramp that simplifies single-round insertion, reducing fumbling and keeping the shooter focused on the target. Ideal for small hands.
- Three Caliber Compatibility – Accepts .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 LR without modification. Lets you tailor recoil and report to the shooter’s comfort level.
- M81 Woodland Camo Synthetic Stock – Weather-resistant, lightweight (2.5 lbs), and provides a non-reflective finish for outdoor use. Stock is fixed (non-adjustable) but scaled for youth shooters.
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for first-time shooters, typically ages 6-12, under adult supervision. It suits parents introducing kids to safe firearm handling, scout troops running marksmanship programs, and range instructors teaching fundamentals with a low-recoil, single-action platform. The M81 camo finish also appeals to hunters wanting a lightweight truck gun or survival rifle for small game.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Extremely lightweight (2.5 lbs), safe rebounding firing pin, three caliber capacity, easy-to-use EZ Loader, affordable entry price.
- Cons: Fixed stock limits adjustability for growing shooters; peep sight may be too small for some adult eyes; single-shot action requires manual loading after each round, slowing practice pace.
Comparison: Keystone Crickett Gen2 vs. Competitors
| Feature | Keystone Crickett Gen2 (M81 Camo) | Savage Rascal (Youth) | Marlin 915Y |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Single-shot bolt-action | Single-shot bolt-action | Single-shot bolt-action |
| Caliber | .22 LR / Long / Short | .22 LR only | .22 LR only |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs | 3.0 lbs | 4.5 lbs |
| Stock | Fixed synthetic, M81 camo | Fixed synthetic (black/camo options) | Fixed synthetic (black) |
| Sights | Adjustable rear peep + fixed front post | Adjustable rear peep + fiber optic front | Open notch rear + ramp front |
| Safety | Rebounding firing pin (no manual safety) | Manual thumb safety | Manual cross-bolt safety |
| Price (MSRP) | $159.39 | $199.99 | $249.99 |
FAQ
What is the overall length of the Crickett Gen2?
The overall length is 30.5 inches with a 16.1-inch barrel, making it compact enough for young shooters and storage in a small safe or case.
Can this rifle fire .22 Short and .22 Long reliably?
Yes, per Keystone specs, the Gen2 is designed to cycle .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 LR cartridges without adjustment. However, .22 Short may produce slightly less accuracy due to lower velocity.
Does it come with a scope mount or rail?
No, the Gen2 model is equipped with iron sights only. The receiver is not drilled/tapped for a scope mount, so optics require aftermarket adapter or gunsmith work.
Is the stock adjustable for length of pull?
No, the stock is fixed. Length of pull is approximately 11.5 inches, suitable for most children ages 6-12. Adults may find it short.
The Keystone Crickett My First Rifle Gen2 22 LR 16.1″ M81 Camo is a purpose-built youth trainer that prioritizes safety and simplicity. With over 1 million Crickett rifles sold since 1996 (per industry estimates), this platform is a proven entry point for new shooters. At $159.39, it delivers a reliable, low-cost introduction to bolt-action shooting.
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Explore more: Rifles | Kids’ First Guns | Bolt Action Rifles
Last updated: April 2026
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