The Keystone Crickett Rifle 22 LR Stainless/Green Syn w/BLK Web Stock is a purpose-built, single-shot bolt action rifle designed for one thing: teaching the next generation of shooters the fundamentals of marksmanship. This isn’t a scaled-down toy—it’s a genuine manual-cocking, single-shot platform that forces deliberate, accurate shot placement. The webbed green synthetic stock and stainless barrel offer durability in field conditions, while the EZ Loader on Gen 2 models simplifies loading for small hands. At $131.88, this is the most honest, no-nonsense training tool you can buy for a new shooter.
| Manufacturer | Keystone Sporting Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Crickett (Generation 2) |
| Material | Stainless steel barrel, synthetic stock with black web finish |
| Compatibility | .22 LR ammunition only |
| Finish | Stainless matte barrel, green synthetic stock with black web pattern |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Manual Cocking Action – The bolt must be manually cocked before each shot, teaching the shooter to treat every round with respect. This builds a safety habit that carries over to all firearms.
- Rebounding Firing Pin Safety – The firing pin is automatically blocked after firing, preventing accidental discharges if the rifle is dropped or mishandled. Per Keystone’s engineering specs, this meets or exceeds all industry safety standards.
- EZ Loader (Gen 2) – A spring-loaded assist that holds the cartridge in place while the bolt closes, eliminating fumbling for small fingers. This keeps focus on sight picture and trigger control, not loading frustration.
- Single-Shot Bolt Action – No magazine, no follow-up shot. Every trigger pull is a deliberate, intended shot. This forces the shooter to make each round count, improving accuracy and patience.
- Webbed Green Synthetic Stock – The textured grip and weather-resistant material provide a secure hold in wet or cold conditions. The stainless barrel resists corrosion, making this a low-maintenance rifle for outdoor use.
Who It’s For
This is the ideal first rifle for a youth shooter aged 4 to 10, or for any adult who wants a lightweight, low-cost trainer. The short length of pull (11.5 inches) and light weight (2.5 lbs) let small shooters handle the rifle safely and comfortably. It’s also a solid choice for plinking, small-game hunting, or as a survival pack rifle due to its compact size and reliability.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Inexpensive entry point for teaching firearm safety and marksmanship fundamentals.
- Pro: Manual cocking and single-shot action enforce safe handling habits.
- Pro: Stainless barrel and synthetic stock require minimal maintenance.
- Con: No iron sights included—you’ll need to add a scope or optic for precision work. The receiver is grooved for .22 rings, but that’s an additional cost.
- Con: The manual cocking lever can be stiff for very small hands; some parents may need to assist until the shooter builds finger strength.
Comparison
| Feature | Keystone Crickett (Gen 2) | Ruger 10/22 Carbine | Savage Rascal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Single-shot bolt, manual cock | Semi-auto rotary magazine | Single-shot bolt, manual cock |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs | 5.0 lbs | 2.9 lbs |
| Barrel | Stainless steel | Blued carbon steel | Blued carbon steel |
| Stock | Green synthetic w/ black web | Black synthetic | Black synthetic or hardwood |
| Price | $131.88 | ~$250 | ~$175 |
| Safety Type | Rebounding firing pin (automatic) | Manual cross-bolt | Manual tang safety |
| Best For | Absolute beginners, safety-first training | General plinking, competition | Youth training, budget accuracy |
The Crickett wins on price and safety-focused design. The Ruger 10/22 is faster for follow-up shots but heavier and more expensive. The Savage Rascal is a close competitor but lacks the automatic rebounding pin safety and stainless barrel at this price point.
FAQ
What age is the Keystone Crickett designed for?
This rifle is built for youth shooters ages 4 to 10, though adults with smaller frames or those wanting a lightweight pack rifle also use it. The short length of pull (11.5 inches) and 2.5-pound weight make it manageable for small shooters.
Does the Crickett come with a scope?
No, the rifle is sold without sights or optics. The receiver has a grooved dovetail for mounting .22 scope rings. You’ll need to purchase a scope and rings separately.
How does the safety work on this model?
The Crickett uses a rebounding firing pin that is automatically blocked after each shot. There is no manual safety lever. The rifle is safe when the bolt is closed and the firing pin is not cocked. Always verify the chamber is empty before handling.
Is this rifle accurate enough for competition training?
Yes, for beginner-level rimfire competitions or practice. The single-shot action and manual cocking teach precision and patience. At 25 yards, resting on a bag, expect 1- to 1.5-inch groups with quality .22 LR ammunition. It’s not a match rifle, but it builds the skills needed for one.
Can I use high-velocity .22 LR ammo in this rifle?
Yes, the Crickett is rated for standard and high-velocity .22 LR loads. Avoid hyper-velocity or subsonic ammo unless you specifically test for function—the manual cocking action is less affected by pressure variations than semi-autos.
Trust & Delivery
- ✓ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✓ Ships within 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day return policy
- ✓ Secure checkout with encrypted payment
Browse more Bolt Action Rifles or check our .22 LR ammo selection. For training gear, see Youth Rifles.
Last updated: April 2026
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