Keystone Crickett Rifle 22 LR Stainless/Tan Syn w/BLK Web Stock

The Keystone Crickett Rifle 22 LR Stainless/Tan Syn w/BLK Web Stock is a purpose-built single-shot bolt action rifle designed for introducing new shooters to the fundamentals of precision marksmanship. This American-made youth rifle combines a stainless steel barrel with a durable synthetic stock featuring a unique black web pattern over tan, offering corrosion resistance and a secure grip in wet or cold conditions. At $168.55, it delivers reliable, sub-MOA accuracy at 25 to 50 yards with standard velocity .22 LR ammunition, making it a cost-effective training tool that teaches trigger control and sight alignment without the distractions of a magazine-fed system.

Manufacturer	Keystone Sporting Arms
Model	Crickett (Generation 2)
Material	Stainless steel barrel; synthetic stock with black web finish (per manufacturer specs)
Compatibility	.22 Long Rifle (LR) only
Finish	Stainless barrel; tan synthetic stock with black web texture
Weight	2.75 lbs (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Rebounding Firing Pin Safety – The firing pin is automatically blocked after each shot, preventing accidental discharge even if the rifle is dropped. This matters because it gives instructors and parents confidence that the action is inert when the bolt is closed on an empty chamber.
• Manual Cocking Bolt Action – The shooter must manually lift the bolt handle to cock the firing pin before each shot. This matters because it forces the user to slow down, establish a consistent cheek weld, and execute a deliberate trigger press—building the core skills of precision shooting.
• EZ Loader (Generation 2) – A spring-loaded loading ramp that aligns the cartridge with the chamber for easy single-round insertion. This matters because it eliminates fumbling with small .22 LR rounds, keeping the shooter focused on the target rather than the loading process.
• Stainless Steel Barrel – Resists corrosion and maintains accuracy in humid or wet environments. This matters because a youth rifle often sees storage in basements, garages, or gun safes with variable humidity, and stainless ensures the bore stays clean and accurate for years.
• Black Web Synthetic Stock – Textured grip surface with a tan base and black web pattern. This matters because it provides a non-slip hold even with sweaty hands, and the light color reduces heat absorption on sunny days at the range.

Who It’s For

This rifle is engineered for the beginner youth shooter—typically ages 5 to 12—who needs a lightweight, single-shot platform to learn safe firearm handling and basic marksmanship. It also serves adults seeking a compact training rifle for developing trigger discipline, or as a low-cost plinker for small-game hunting at close range. The short length of pull (12 inches) fits smaller frames, and the low recoil of .22 LR makes it ideal for building confidence.

Pros / Cons

• Pro: True single-shot action eliminates the temptation to rapid-fire, enforcing disciplined shot execution.
• Pro: Stainless steel barrel and synthetic stock require minimal maintenance and withstand outdoor use.
• Pro: At $168.55, it’s one of the most affordable precision training rifles on the market.
• Con: The factory iron sights are basic—no fiber optic or adjustable rear sight. Shooters wanting a scope will need to add rings and optics (rifle is drilled and tapped for scope bases).

Comparison

Feature	Keystone Crickett Gen 2	Savage Rascal	CZ 457 Scout
Action	Manual cocking, single-shot	Bolt-action, single-shot	Bolt-action, detachable magazine
Barrel Material	Stainless steel	Carbon steel (blued)	Carbon steel (blued)
Stock	Synthetic, black web tan	Synthetic, black	Wood
Weight	2.75 lbs	3.0 lbs	4.8 lbs
Price	$168.55	~$200	~$400
Safety	Rebounding firing pin (automatic)	Manual thumb safety	Manual two-position
Best For	Absolute beginners, budget training	Intermediate youth shooters	Serious youth precision shooters

FAQ

Is the Keystone Crickett safe for a young child?

Yes. The rebounding firing pin design automatically blocks the firing pin after each shot, preventing accidental discharge. Additionally, the manual cocking action means the rifle cannot fire unless the bolt is lifted and the trigger is pulled deliberately. Per Keystone Sporting Arms, this safety system has been tested and proven over 20 years of production.

Does the Crickett come with a scope?

No, the rifle is sold without optics. It is drilled and tapped for standard .22 scope bases, and we recommend a low-power scope (2-7x or 4x) for youth shooters. The factory iron sights are fixed and non-adjustable, so a scope will improve accuracy at 25+ yards.

Can an adult use this rifle?

Yes, but the 12-inch length of pull may feel short for taller adults. It’s best used as a lightweight training rifle for offhand shooting or as a packable plinker. For adults, consider adding a buttstock spacer (available separately) to extend the length of pull.

What ammunition should I use?

Standard velocity .22 LR (around 1200 fps) works best for accuracy and reliability. Avoid hyper-velocity rounds like CCI Stinger, as they can cause excessive pressure in a single-shot action and may lead to extraction issues. Per Keystone specs, use only SAAMI-spec .22 LR ammunition.

How do I clean the stainless barrel?

Use a standard .22 caliber cleaning rod with a brass jag and patches soaked in a solvent like Hoppe’s No. 9. Stainless steel resists corrosion, but you should still run a dry patch after cleaning to remove solvent residue. Avoid using steel brushes that can scratch the bore.

Why Buy From Us

• ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✓ 30-day returns
• ✓ Secure checkout

Browse more beginner rifles in our Bolt Action Rifles category, or check out our Youth Rifles for other options. For those looking to upgrade, see our Scope Rings & Mounts.

Last updated: April 2026