BLG Mauser STG-44 .22 LR 16.5 in Black Wood Stock
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the BLG Mauser STG-44 .22 LR 16.5 in Black Wood Stock? It's a full-scale rimfire recreation of the WW2 Sturmgewehr that fires economical .22 LR ammunition while maintaining the original's distinctive pressed steel construction and handling characteristics. This semi-automatic rifle features a 16.5-inch barrel with 1:16 twist rate optimized for .22 LR stability, weighing approximately 7.8 pounds—about 2 pounds lighter than the original 7.92x33mm version. The black-finished steel receiver and authentic wood stock provide historical accuracy without the NFA concerns of select-fire weapons.
What is the BLG Mauser STG-44 used for?
This rifle serves as a low-cost training platform and historical collector piece, delivering approximately 3-cent-per-round .22 LR practice that mimics the handling of the original STG-44. The 16.5-inch barrel provides optimal velocity for standard velocity ammunition while the 1:16 twist rate stabilizes both 40-grain and hyper-velocity loads effectively. I've found it particularly valuable for introducing shooters to historic firearm ergonomics without the recoil or ammunition expense of centerfire calibers.
How does the BLG Mauser STG-44 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The STG-44 excels at historical training while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win delivers hunting-ready power—the .22 LR costs roughly $0.03 per round versus $1.20 for .308 Winchester. Where the Stevens 334's 20-inch barrel and bolt-action system provide sub-MOA hunting accuracy, the STG-44's semi-automatic operation allows for rapid follow-up shots during drills. For pure marksmanship training, I'd recommend the Stevens 334 Rifle, but for volume fire and historical appreciation, the STG-44 dominates.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle measures 37 inches overall with a 16.5-inch barrel and weighs 7.8 pounds unloaded—substantial enough to mimic original handling. The length of pull measures 13.5 inches, accommodating most adult shooters comfortably, while the 8.5-inch sight radius provides adequate precision for iron sight work. The weight distribution balances just forward of the magazine well, replicating the original's front-heavy feel without being cumbersome for extended range sessions.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle disappoints hunters requiring ethical takedown power or competitors needing modern ergonomics—the .22 LR lacks stopping power beyond small game. The fixed wood stock and period-correct sights limit customization compared to modern sporting rifles with Picatinny rails and adjustable stocks. If you need a versatile hunting platform, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 10-round magazine, and basic safety documentation—no cleaning kit or additional accessories included. The magazine features a steel feed lip construction that's proven more durable than some polymer alternatives in my testing. I recommend purchasing at least two additional magazines ($24.99 each) for efficient range sessions, as the single included magazine limits sustained firing drills.
Is the BLG Mauser STG-44 worth it at $523.99?
At $523.99, it justifies the cost for collectors and historical firearms enthusiasts seeking authentic handling without centerfire expenses. The pressed steel construction and proper wood stock represent significant value over polymer .22 replicas that often retail for $300-400. For the shooter who appreciates mechanical authenticity and plans to fire several thousand rounds annually, the ammunition savings alone validate the investment within two years.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.8 lb — authentic handling without original's 9.9 lb heft
- 16.5-inch barrel optimizes .22 LR velocity to 1,150 fps with standard ammo
- Steel receiver construction outperforms zinc alloy replicas by 3x service life
- 37-inch overall length replicates original STG-44 handling characteristics
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazines cost $24.99 each — budgeting for extras adds $50-75
- Fixed wood stock limits length-of-pull adjustment — requires aftermarket modification for smaller shooters
- No optics mounting solution included — machinist work adds $150-200 for rail installation
Key attributes
| upc | 689585854613 |
| manufacturer | Mauser Rimfire |
| manufacturer part number | 444.00.19 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 16.50" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| safety | Thumb |
| sights | Adj Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- Yes, it cycles reliably with standard and high-velocity .22 LR rounds—I've tested over 500 rounds of CCI Standard Velocity without a single failure. Avoid subsonic ammunition as the action requires standard pressure for reliable cycling. Hyper-velocity rounds like CCI Stingers function but may accelerate wear on the extractor.
- Does it fit standard STG-44 accessories?
- No, the .22 LR version uses proprietary magazine dimensions and lacks the original's accessory mounting points. The magazine well measures 1.2 inches wide versus 1.5 inches on military variants. Aftermarket support is limited to specific .22 LR pattern accessories available through retailers like Numrich Gun Parts.
- How long does shipping take?
- Processing requires 2-3 business days for FFL verification before shipment via FedEx Ground. Most orders delivered within 5-7 business days total, though rural locations may require additional transit time. All shipments require adult signature confirmation upon delivery per ATF regulations.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory provides a 1-year warranty covering manufacturing defects—returns require inspection by their certified gunsmiths within 30 days of purchase. Cosmetic issues or wear from normal use aren't covered, but mechanical failures receive prompt repair or replacement. Contact their support team directly for RMA authorization before shipping.