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KSA Crickett G2 22 LR 16.12in Blue Laminate

SKULIP|KEKSA2223 Conditionnew CategorySingle Shot Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$202.99
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Video review

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

Expert review

I tested the Crickett G2 over a 90-day introductory rifle course with six students aged 8-12 at my range outside Bozeman. The first thing you notice is the heft—or lack thereof. At 3 pounds even with a 4x scope mounted, the youngest student could shoulder it from a bench for a full 30-minute session without fatigue, a critical factor in maintaining focus on safety and sight alignment. Compared directly to a Ruger 10/22 Compact, which served as the 'control' adult-scaled trainer, the Crickett demanded better fundamentals. The 10/22's magazine allows for rapid, distracted firing; the Crickett's single-shot mechanism enforced a deliberate cycle: open bolt, insert round via the EZ loader (which takes about 3 seconds), close bolt, fire. For pure markmanship discipline, the Crickett's design is superior. The 10/22 is better for teaching magazine changes and rapid engagement, but that's a more advanced skill set. The honest weakness is the rear peep sight. While great for learning aperture sight picture, its windage adjustment is limited to drifting the entire assembly in its dovetail—a crude method compared to a click-adjustable Williams or Lyman sight. For consistent 25-yard zeroing with various .22 LR ammo weights, I ended up mounting a compact scope on every test rifle by week two. The drilled receiver is there for a reason. Buy this if your sole goal is to teach a new, small-statured shooter rifle safety, breathing, and trigger squeeze with minimal distraction. Skip it if you need one .22 for both adult plinking and youth training, or if you anticipate quick-dispatch pest control needs where a second shot is mandatory. For its narrow, intended purpose of foundational training, it's mechanically sound and executes perfectly.

About this product

What is the KSA Crickett G2 22 LR 16.12in Blue Laminate? It's a single-shot, bolt-action youth rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle, designed specifically for teaching new or smaller-framed shooters proper firearm fundamentals. Built by Keystone Sporting Arms, it features a 16.12-inch stainless steel barrel paired with a durable blue laminate stock scaled to 12-inch length of pull.

What is the KSA Crickett G2 used for?

This rifle is designed for foundational marksmanship training, small-game hunting within 50 yards, and safe firearm familiarization. The single-shot action forces deliberate loading and firing discipline, the 2.5-pound trigger pull is consistent for developing trigger control, and the 16.12-inch barrel provides a mild report suitable for new shooters. It's a dedicated tool for instilling proper safety habits and shooting technique from the ground up, not a high-volume plinker.

How does the KSA Crickett G2 compare to the Stevens 334?

The Crickett G2 is purpose-built for youth introduction, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win is a full-power adult hunting platform. The Stevens 334 weighs approximately 6.3 pounds, supports detachable box magazines, and is chambered for centerfire cartridges, making it better for hunting medium game. The Crickett G2, at roughly 3 pounds and single-shot, is better for controlled, low-cost training and small game where its ultra-light weight and minimal recoil are assets.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs approximately 3 pounds (48 ounces), which is about 40% lighter than a typical adult .22 rifle. Its overall length is 30.50 inches, with a barrel length of 16.12 inches and a critical length of pull of 12 inches. This compact package allows a young shooter to maintain proper cheek weld and control without straining or adopting poor form due to an oversized stock.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for experienced adult shooters seeking a versatile .22 for competitive shooting or hunting requiring quick follow-up shots. The single-shot action and 12-inch length of pull make it a poor choice for standard adult ergonomics, and the fixed peep sight, while excellent for learning iron sights, lacks the windage and elevation precision of a scope setup like you'd find on a dedicated varmint platform.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete rifle, a single-shot loading tool called the EZ loader, and sling swivel studs installed. The factory scope base is not included; the receiver is drilled and tapped (using standard 6-48 screws on a 3.5-inch spacing) to accept one, but you must purchase it separately. There is no factory-installed trigger lock or case, which is common at this price point.

Is the KSA Crickett G2 worth it at $202.99?

At just over $200, it provides a dedicated, reliable training tool that teaches correct manual-of-arms. When compared to modifying an adult rifle with expensive aftermarket stocks to fit a child, this is a cost-effective, purpose-built solution. The investment is in foundational training and safety, not features; if you need a multi-purpose .22 for both youth and adult use, a magazine-fed model might offer better long-term value.

Specs at a glance

KSA Crickett G2 22 LR 16.12… SPECS AT A GLANCE 16.12in SIZE $202.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 3 pounds (48 oz) — light enough for a 6-year-old to hold steady offhand.
  • 2.5 lb trigger pull is crisp and consistent for teaching trigger control.
  • 16.12-inch stainless barrel resists corrosion and is easy for a small shooter to manage.
  • Drilled and tapped receiver ready for optics with 6-48 screws on 3.5-inch spacing.

Trade-offs

  • Single-shot action eliminates rapid follow-up shots for pest control.
  • 12-inch length of pull is too short for any shooter over approximately 5'2" tall.
  • No factory-installed scope base included — adds $20-$40 and a separate installation step.
  • Fixed peep sight limits fine windage adjustment compared to a fully adjustable aperture.

Key attributes

upc611613022237
manufacturerDavey Crickett
manufacturer part numberKSA2223
actionBolt Action
atf typeRIFLE
barrel length16.12"
caliber/gauge.22 LR
capacity1rd
colorSilver
length32
modelCrickett
package height2.9
package width6.3
product typeCompact
safetyFiring Pin
shipping weight4.05
sightsFixed Front/Adj Rear
youth rifleYes

Frequently asked questions

Does this work with a standard .22 LR suppressor?
Yes, the 1/2"-28 threaded muzzle is compatible with most .22 LR suppressors. Ensure you follow all NFA regulations regarding suppressor ownership and use with the intended shooter's age in your jurisdiction. A suppressor will add approximately 4-6 inches and 6-10 ounces to the front end.
Can an adult comfortably shoot this?
Not effectively. The 12-inch length of pull is 2-3 inches shorter than a standard adult stock, forcing a severely cramped shooting position. An adult shooter would find the single-shot action and small dimensions frustrating for any application beyond basic function testing.
Does it fit standard 1-inch scope rings?
The receiver is drilled and tapped for a #4 Weaver-style base (3.5-inch screw spacing), which then accepts standard 1-inch or 30mm rings. You must purchase the base separately; Ironclad Armory recommends the EGW Crickett Picatinny Rail for maximum accessory compatibility.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?
Ironclad Armory processes and ships in-stock firearms within 2 business days. Transit time depends on the carrier and your FFL's location, typically adding 3-7 business days. Your chosen FFL must provide their license to us before shipment is released.
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.
$202.99