Description
Looking for a reliable, affordable bolt-action .22 Magnum rifle to introduce your family to shooting sports or add a dependable plinker to your collection?
Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in family-friendly firearms and tactical gear. The ROSSI RB22M is a straightforward, no-fuss bolt-action rifle chambered in .22 WMR. It delivers solid performance at a price point that makes sense for beginners and budget-conscious shooters. Available now for $314.99, down from $349.99.
Reviewed by Ryan Decker, Firearms Specialist at Californiagunshop. 15 years in tactical retail, former LEO armorer, 300+ custom builds.
Last updated: March 2026
Why the ROSSI RB22M Bolt Action Rifle Belongs in Your Safe
After handling hundreds of rimfire rifles, I see the RB22M’s role clearly. It’s not trying to be a competition benchrest gun. It’s a tool designed for a specific job: putting .22 WMR rounds downrange accurately and reliably without breaking the bank. The bolt action is simple and robust, perfect for teaching new shooters the fundamentals of marksmanship—breath control, sight alignment, and trigger squeeze—without the complexity of a semi-auto. The .22 WMR cartridge itself is a great step up from .22 LR, offering more punch for small game or longer-range plinking, and this rifle is a cost-effective way to get into that caliber. For the price, you’re getting a functional, durable firearm that does exactly what it says on the box.
ROSSI RB22M Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Bolt Action Rifle |
| Caliber | .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) |
| Material (Receiver/Barrel) | Steel |
| Material (Stock) | Hardwood |
| Manufacturing | Machined & Forged Components |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Lacquered Wood |
| Hardness/Quality | Commercial Sporting Grade |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds (Detachable Box Magazine) |
| Barrel Length | 21 Inches |
| Overall Length | 40.5 Inches (Approx.) |
| Weight | Approx. 5.5 lbs |
| Sights | Adjustable Rear Sight, Blade Front Sight |
| Compatibility | ROSSI RB22M Specific Magazines & Accessories |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to Fire Out of Box |
| Country of Origin | Brazil |
| Condition | New in Factory Box |
| SKU | RB22M (Varies by Distributor) |
How the ROSSI RB22M Stacks Up
Let’s be real about where this rifle fits. In my shop, I see three main tiers for .22 bolt guns. The ROSSI RB22M sits squarely in the middle, offering a great balance.
| Feature | ROSSI RB22M | Budget Import Rifle (~$60-80) | Premium Brand (e.g., CZ 457 ~$550+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material & Build | Steel receiver/barrel, hardwood stock. Solid commercial fit. | Often alloy/potmetal components, questionable wood or synthetic. | Precision-machined steel, high-grade walnut or composite. |
| Quality & Finish | Functional bluing and finish. No frills, but durable. | Rough finishes, loose tolerances. “Tool” grade. | Impeccable fit and finish. Heirloom or competition grade. |
| Compatibility & Aftermarket | Limited but available. Magazines and basic mounts can be found. | Virtually none. You get what you get. | Extensive. Rails, triggers, stocks, barrels galore. |
| Shipping & FFL | Same-day from our TX warehouse. Standard FFL process. | Often long lead times from overseas. Same FFL process. | May be special order. Same FFL process. |
| Lifespan & Durability | Will last for generations with proper care. A working rifle. | Unpredictable. May develop issues quickly. | Built to outlast its owner. Exceptional durability. |
| Price Point | $314.99 (Our Sale Price) | $60 – $80 | $550 and up |
ROSSI RB22M Pros & Cons
What I like about it:
- ✅ Affordable Entry to .22 WMR: The price is right for trying out the magnum rimfire cartridge.
- ✅ Simple & Safe for Beginners: The bolt action is intuitive, making it a fantastic first rifle for youth or new shooters under supervision.
- ✅ Reliable Feeding: The detachable 5-round magazine typically feeds more reliably than tube magazines in this price range.
- ✅ Durable Construction: Steel where it counts (barrel, receiver) means this isn’t a disposable toy.
- ✅ Good Sights for a Budget Rifle: Having adjustable iron sights out of the box is a real plus. Many rifles in this class don’t.
What you should know:
- ❌ Trigger is Basic: The trigger pull is serviceable but heavy and gritty compared to aftermarket options. It’s a common point in any Rossi 22 bolt action review. For a crisper pull, see our trigger upgrades for compatible models.
- ❌ Stock Fit is Utilitarian: The hardwood stock is durable, but the finish and fit to the metal are purely functional, not refined.
- ❌ Limited Upgrade Path: Don’t buy this planning to build a custom tactical rimfire rifle. The aftermarket is small. If that’s your goal, start with a different platform.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the ROSSI RB22M
Buy it if:
- You’re a parent looking for a first “real” rifle to teach your kids safe, responsible shooting.
- You want a low-cost, dependable truck or ranch rifle for pest control or small game with .22 WMR.
- You’re a shooter on a tight budget who wants a bolt-action .22 Magnum that works.
- You need a simple, durable firearm for introductory marksmanship courses.
Skip it if:
- You demand a match-grade trigger and sub-MOA accuracy for competition. (Look at our competition rimfire section).
- You plan on extensive customization with stocks, rails, and chassis systems.
- You primarily want a semi-automatic plinker. (Check out our .22 semi-autos instead).
Common Questions & Concerns
“Is the Rossi brand any good?” Rossi, owned by Taurus, has a long history. Their rimfire rifles like the RB22M are generally regarded as their strong suit—simple, proven designs that work. They are solid “working man’s” firearms.
“How accurate is it?” With quality .22 WMR ammunition, you can expect 1.5 to 2 MOA accuracy from the bench with the iron sights. That’s more than enough for its intended roles. The fixed barrel and bolt action are inherently accurate designs.
“Can I mount a scope?” Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for a standard rimfire scope base (we carry them). The 21″ barrel provides good eye relief for most scopes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ROSSI RB22M a good first rifle?
Absolutely. Its bolt-action operation is inherently safe, teaching fundamental shooting discipline. The .22 WMR has minimal recoil, and the rifle’s size and weight are manageable for older youth and adults learning the basics.
What’s the difference between .22 LR and .22 WMR?
.22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) is a more powerful cartridge than .22 Long Rifle. It has a longer case, more powder, and higher velocity, making it better for longer ranges and slightly larger game. The ROSSI RB22M is chambered only for .22 WMR—do not fire .22 LR in it.
How does the ROSSI RB22M bolt action compare to a semi-auto .22?
Bolt actions like the RB22M are simpler, often more reliable with various ammo types, and better for learning marksmanship fundamentals. Semi-autos are faster for follow-up shots and can be more fun for casual plinking. It depends on your primary goal.
Are extra magazines easy to find for the RB22M?
Yes, Rossi RB22M-specific 5-round magazines are readily available from us and other retailers. I always recommend picking up at least one spare.
What kind of accuracy can I expect?
With the iron sights and standard velocity .22 WMR ammo, you should reliably hit small targets (like soda cans) at 50-75 yards. From a rest with a scope, minute-of-small-game accuracy out to 100 yards is a reasonable expectation for this rifle.
Where can I buy a Rossi RB22M bolt action rifle online?
You can purchase the ROSSI RB22M right here at Californiagunshop (californiagunshop.com). We ship quickly and discreetly to your local FFL dealer for the required transfer.
Is the rifle ready to shoot out of the box?
Yes, it comes new in the box with one 5-round magazine. You will need to purchase .22 WMR ammunition separately and complete the transfer through a licensed FFL dealer in your state before taking possession.
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from San Antonio, TX
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns (see our policy for details)
✅ Secure checkout
If the ROSSI RB22M fits your needs for a simple, affordable, and reliable .22 Magnum bolt gun, it’s a hard value to beat at this sale price. It’s the kind of rifle that won’t let you down and might just start a lifelong shooting passion for someone in your family.
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About this review: This assessment is based on my hands-on experience with the ROSSI RB22M platform, industry knowledge from 15 years in tactical retail, and feedback from customers. My goal is to give you the clear, practical information you need to make a good purchase decision. Last updated: March 2026
