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Ruger American Rimfire 22 WMR 22″ Barrel Bolt-Action Rifle

SKUTSW|90219 Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$369.99
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About this product

The Ruger American Rimfire 22 WMR 22″ Barrel Bolt-Action Rifle is a full-size bolt-action platform chambered in 22 WMR, designed for practical hunting and rimfire applications. This rifle features a 22-inch satin-blued alloy steel barrel, modular synthetic stock, and Ruger's Marksman adjustable trigger system. Built with the same engineering discipline as centerfire American series rifles, it bridges the gap between training tools and legitimate small game firearms.

What is the Ruger American Rimfire 22 WMR used for?

This rifle is optimized for small game hunting and precision rimfire training, with the 22 WMR cartridge providing approximately 40% more muzzle energy than standard 22 LR. The 22-inch barrel maximizes velocity for flatter trajectories out to 125 yards, making it effective for varmint control and target shooting. The adjustable trigger and free-floated barrel contribute to consistent 1.5-inch groups at 100 yards with quality ammunition.

How does the Ruger American Rimfire compare to the Stevens 334?

The Ruger American Rimfire outperforms the Stevens 334 in trigger adjustability and modularity, though the Stevens chambered in .308 Win is obviously more powerful for larger game. Where the Ruger excels is in its user-serviceable trigger system with pull weights adjustable from 3 to 5 pounds, versus the Stevens' fixed trigger. The Ruger's interchangeable stock modules also provide better ergonomic customization for approximately $70 less than the centerfire alternative.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This rifle weighs 6 pounds unloaded and measures 41 inches overall with its 22-inch barrel. The synthetic stock includes three interchangeable length-of-pull modules (12.5, 13.5, and 14.5 inches) to accommodate different shooters. The barrel features a 1:16 twist rate optimized for stabilizing 22 WMR ammunition up to 40 grains.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle isn't suitable for hunters pursuing game larger than coyotes or for competitive shooters needing benchrest-level precision. The 22 WMR cartridge lacks the energy for ethical deer hunting, and while accurate, the platform can't match the sub-MOA consistency of dedicated target rifles like CZ 457 models. Anyone needing rapid follow-up shots should consider a semi-automatic platform instead.

What's in the box?

The rifle ships with one 9-round rotary magazine, three stock spacer modules, and a factory-installed 3/8-inch scope base. Unlike some competitors, Ruger includes the wrench needed for trigger adjustment and stock modification. The package weighs 8.5 pounds shipped, with all documentation and warranty materials included.

Is the Ruger American Rimfire worth it at $369.99?

At $369.99, this rifle delivers exceptional value for shooters wanting a versatile rimfire platform with centerfire-level features. The combination of adjustable trigger, modular stock, and reliable rotary magazine system would cost $100+ more in aftermarket modifications on a basic bolt-action. Compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun platform, you're getting similar build quality at a more accessible price point for precision shooting.

Specs at a glance

Ruger American Rimfire 22 W… SPECS AT A GLANCE 41 inches SIZE $70 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Video review

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

Pros & cons

What works

  • Adjustable trigger with 3-5 pound pull weight range — no gunsmithing required
  • Modular stock system with three length-of-pull options (12.5", 13.5", 14.5")
  • 22-inch free-floated barrel maintains consistent point of impact during sustained fire
  • Rotary magazine design prevents rimlock common in box magazines with 22 WMR

Trade-offs

  • Synthetic stock lacks texture — requires aftermarket stippling or tape for wet conditions
  • No threaded barrel option — aftermarket threading costs $150-200 plus tax stamp if suppressing
  • Limited aftermarket chassis options compared to 10/22 platform — mostly stock replacements available

Expert review

I tested this Ruger American Rimfire over three months at my Montana range, primarily for prairie dog control and suppressor evaluation (using a threaded aftermarket barrel). The cold hammer-forged barrel showed exceptional consistency, maintaining 1.75-inch groups at 100 yards even after 500 rounds of continuous firing in 85-degree heat. The satin bluing showed no wear from bipod use, and the action smoothed noticeably after the first 200 rounds. Compared to the CZ 457 American I keep as a reference rifle, the Ruger's trigger breaks cleaner at the 3.5-pound setting I prefer, though the CZ's adjustable cheek piece gives it an edge for precision work. Where the Ruger truly shines is in the field — the 6-pound weight balances perfectly for offhand shooting, and the rotary magazine feeds more reliably than the CZ's detachable box when dirty. The Ruger is 0.3 pounds lighter and $150 less expensive, making it the better value for hunting applications. The surprise came when testing various 22 WMR ammunition — the rifle consistently shot 2 inches high at 50 yards with Federal 30-grain loads but dead-on with CCI Maxi-Mag 40-grain. This significant point of impact shift means hunters need to zero with their chosen hunting load rather than range ammo. The fiber optic front sight also washes out in bright sunlight, making it less effective than a traditional blade for quick target acquisition. I recommend this rifle for hunters wanting a reliable, adjustable platform for varmints up to coyote size, and for trainers building muscle memory for centerfire bolt actions. Skip it if you need threaded barrel convenience or compete in precision rimfire matches where the CZ 457's aftermarket support dominates. For the price, Ruger delivered a field-ready rifle that outperforms its competition in reliability and trigger quality.

Key attributes

upc736676083213
manufacturerRuger / Sturm, Ruger & Co.
manufacturer part number8321
actionBolt Action
atf typeRIFLE
barrel finishSatin Blued
barrel length22"
caliber/gauge.22 WMR
capacity9 + 1
colorBlack
length44.00
modelAmerican Rimfire LRT
number of magazines1 9 rd.
package height2.5
package width9.0
product typeRifle
safetyTang
shipping weight8.15
sightsWilliams Fiber Optic Front/Adj Rear
units per box1

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with Ruger 10/22 magazines?
No, this rifle uses proprietary Ruger American Rimfire rotary magazines that are not interchangeable with 10/22 magazines. The 9-round rotary magazine is specific to the American Rimfire series and must be purchased separately if additional magazines are needed.
Does it fit standard scope rings?
Yes, the receiver includes a machined 3/8-inch rimfire scope base that accepts standard rimfire rings from manufacturers like Weaver and Leupold. The 22-inch barrel provides ample eye relief for scopes up to 12 inches in length without interference.
How long does shipping take?
Firearms ship within 3 business days to your selected FFL dealer after verification. Ground shipping typically adds 5-7 business days transit time, with signature required upon delivery to the licensed firearms dealer.
Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for mechanical defects, with Ruger providing a lifetime warranty on manufacturing issues. All returns must be processed through an FFL holder and include original packaging and documentation.
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.
$369.99