The Rossi Rio Bravo .22 LR 18″ Lever Action – Gold is a rimfire lever-action rifle that brings traditional lever handling to small-game hunting, target shooting, and around-the-farm work. It pairs a gold-finished receiver with a polished black barrel and dark hardwood furniture for a classic appearance. The design includes adjustable buckhorn sights and a cross-bolt safety, suitable for informed shooters and youth training contexts. The Rio Bravo is built to serve as a versatile, easy-to-handle rimfire lever rifle.
| Manufacturer | Rossi (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Rio Bravo |
| Material | Hardwood stock, steel receiver with gold finish, steel barrel with polished black finish |
| Compatibility | .22 LR (Long Rifle) ammunition only |
| Finish | Gold receiver, polished black barrel, dark hardwood stock |
| Weight | 4.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Gold-Finished Receiver – Why it matters: Adds a touch of elegance to a working rifle, making it stand out in a safe or on the range, while the polished surface resists corrosion.
- 18″ Polished Black Barrel – Why it matters: Provides a balanced, maneuverable length for carrying through brush or shooting from field positions, with a finish that reduces glare and protects against rust.
- Adjustable Buckhorn Sights – Why it matters: Allows precise windage and elevation adjustments for zeroing with different .22 LR loads, ideal for small-game hunting or plinking at varied distances.
- Cross-Bolt Safety – Why it matters: Offers a positive, easy-to-reach safety that blocks the trigger, giving shooters—especially those new to lever actions—a clear visual and tactile indicator of safe condition.
- Dark Hardwood Furniture – Why it matters: Delivers a traditional, warm appearance that complements the gold receiver, while the wood stock absorbs recoil and provides a stable shooting platform.
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for collectors who appreciate the marriage of gold accents and classic lever-action lines. It also suits enthusiasts looking for a lightweight, low-recoil rifle for informal target shooting, small-game hunting (rabbits, squirrels), or training new shooters in the manual of arms of a lever gun. The 4.5-pound weight and 18″ barrel make it easy to handle for smaller-framed shooters or those who want a packable rifle for farm chores.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Distinctive gold receiver for collector appeal; lightweight at 4.5 lbs; adjustable sights for flexible zero; cross-bolt safety for added security; affordable price point for a lever-action rimfire.
- Cons: The gold finish may show wear over time with heavy use, and the cross-bolt safety can feel less traditional than a half-cock or tang safety for purists.
Comparison
| Feature | Rossi Rio Bravo Gold | Henry H001 Lever Action .22 LR | Marlin 39A Golden (Discontinued) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Receiver Finish | Gold | Blued steel | Blued steel (occasional gold accents) |
| Barrel Length | 18″ | 18.375″ | 24″ |
| Weight | 4.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 6.5 lbs |
| Safety | Cross-bolt | Half-cock hammer | Half-cock hammer |
| Price | $417.40 | ~$450 | ~$1,200 (collector) |
The Henry H001 offers a more traditional blued finish and half-cock safety, but weighs a full pound more. The Marlin 39A is a collector’s piece with a longer barrel and higher price. The Rio Bravo stands out for its gold receiver, lighter weight, and budget-friendly cost.
FAQ
What type of ammunition does the Rossi Rio Bravo Gold use?
It is chambered exclusively for .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) ammunition. Do not use .22 Short, .22 Long, or .22 Magnum in this rifle.
Is the gold receiver on the Rossi Rio Bravo durable?
The gold finish is a plated coating over steel. It resists corrosion and fading under normal use, but like any plated finish, heavy holster wear or abrasive cleaning can dull it over time. It’s best suited for display and occasional field use.
Can this rifle be used for small-game hunting?
Yes. The adjustable buckhorn sights and .22 LR chambering make it effective for rabbits, squirrels, and similar small game at typical rimfire ranges (25–75 yards). The 18″ barrel keeps it nimble in brush.
What is the capacity of the Rossi Rio Bravo magazine?
The Rio Bravo uses a tubular magazine under the barrel that holds 15 rounds of .22 LR (per manufacturer specs). This allows for extended shooting without frequent reloads.
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Explore more lever-action rifles in our Lever Action Rifles category, or browse all rimfire options in Rimfire Rifles. For accessories, see Rifle Accessories.
Last updated: April 2026



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