Description
Looking for a reliable, no-fuss .22 Magnum bolt action rifle to introduce your family to shooting or to keep in the truck for small game? You’ve probably heard the name Rossi, and for good reason. Let’s talk about why the Rossi RB22M is a solid choice for a specific kind of shooter.
Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in firearms for families and responsible shooters. The Rossi RB22M is a straightforward, dependable bolt-action rifle chambered in .22 WMR. Its classic design and proven functionality make it an excellent tool for training and hunting. Available now for $296.99, a significant savings from its regular $329.99 price.
Reviewed by Ryan Decker, Firearms Specialist at Californiagunshop. 15 years in tactical retail, former LEO armorer, 300+ custom builds.
Last updated: March 2026
Why This Rossi RB22M Rifle Stands Out
In my years of building custom rifles and teaching families to shoot, I’ve seen a lot of .22s come and go. The Rossi RB22M isn’t trying to be a fancy competition gun. It’s built to do one job well: put .22 WMR rounds on target with consistency and reliability. It’s the rifle I recommend to parents who want to step up from a .22 LR for their teenager’s first varmint or small game hunt, or for anyone who needs a durable, simple rifle that won’t break the bank. The .22 WMR cartridge offers more punch and range than a standard .22 LR, making it more effective for coyotes or longer-range pest control, and this rifle is a cost-effective platform to use it from.
Rossi RB22M Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Bolt Action Rifle |
| Caliber | .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) |
| Material (Receiver/Barrel) | Steel |
| Material (Stock) | Wood |
| Manufacturing | Machined & Forged Components |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Lacquered Wood |
| Hardness/Quality | Heat-Treated Steel for Durability |
| Compatibility | .22 WMR Ammunition Only |
| Installation/Usage | Manual Bolt Action, 5-Round Detachable Box Magazine |
| Barrel Length | 21 Inches |
| Overall Weight | Approx. 5.5 lbs |
| Overall Dimensions | 41″ L x 8″ H (approx.) |
| Country of Origin | Brazil |
| Condition | New in Factory Box |
| SKU | RB22M |
How the Rossi RB22M Stacks Up Against Other .22 Bolt Actions
| Feature | Rossi RB22M | Budget Import Rimfire (~$60-80) | Premium Brand .22 Bolt Action (~$250+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel receiver & barrel, wood stock | Often alloy/zinc receivers, plastic stocks | Steel, often with upgraded synthetic or laminate stocks |
| Quality | Solid, functional build for the price | Questionable durability, “plinking” grade only | High fit & finish, smoother actions |
| Compatibility | Uses proprietary 5-rd magazine | May have magazine availability issues | Widely available magazines & aftermarket support |
| Shipping | Ready to ship from our TX warehouse | Often drop-shipped with long lead times | Varies, often in stock with specialists |
| Lifespan/Durability | Will last for years with proper care | Prone to breakage, not a long-term tool | Built for generations of use |
| Price | $296.99 (Excellent value for a centerfire-style .22 WMR) | Very low initial cost | Higher investment for refined performance |
Rossi RB22M Pros and Cons
What I like about it:
- ✅ Excellent Caliber for the Role: The .22 WMR is a meaningful step up from .22 LR for small game and varmints, and this rifle is an affordable way to get into it.
- ✅ Simple & Safe for Training: The manual bolt action is inherently safe for new shooters. It forces a slow, deliberate pace which is perfect for teaching marksmanship fundamentals.
- ✅ Classic, Durable Construction: A steel receiver and barrel with a wood stock is a time-tested formula. It feels like a “real rifle,” which matters for building good habits.
- ✅ Reliable Feeding: In my experience, these Rossi bolt actions feed from their box magazines very reliably—more so than some tube-fed .22s I’ve seen on the range.
- ✅ Great Value: At this sale price, you’re getting a capable, no-nonsense hunting/training rifle without a lot of extra cost.
Points to consider:
- ❌ Bolt Action is Slower: This isn’t a semi-auto. For rapid pest control on a farm, the manual operation is a limitation. If that’s your primary need, see our semi-auto rifles.
- ❌ Aftermarket is Limited: Don’t expect a huge market for custom stocks or triggers. What you see is largely what you get, which is fine for its purpose.
- ❌ Magazine Availability: It’s wise to purchase an extra magazine or two when you buy the rifle, as they can be specific to this model.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Rossi RB22M
Buy it if:
- You’re a parent looking for a first “serious” small game rifle for a responsible young shooter stepping up from a .22 LR.
- You need a dependable, low-maintenance truck or ranch rifle for dispatching pests like groundhogs or raccoons.
- You’re a new shooter who wants to learn fundamentals on a centerfire-style platform without the cost of centerfire ammo.
- You appreciate simple, mechanical tools that work without electronics or complexity.
Skip it if:
- You need a high-volume plinker for the range. A .22 LR semi-auto will be more fun and economical for that.
- You’re looking for a target competition rifle. The trigger and sights are utilitarian, not match-grade.
- You want a lightweight backpacking rifle. There are synthetic-stocked options that weigh less.
Common Questions & Concerns
“Is the .22 WMR powerful enough for coyotes?” With proper shot placement using appropriate ammunition (like hollow points), yes, the .22 WMR is a viable coyote cartridge inside 100 yards, especially for a younger or recoil-sensitive shooter. It’s at the lower end of the ethical spectrum, so marksmanship is critical.
“How does it compare to a Rossi .22 LR model?” The main difference is the chambering. The RB22M is built specifically for the higher pressure of the .22 WMR cartridge. It’s a stronger action. Never fire .22 LR in a .22 WMR rifle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rossi RB22M a good rifle for a beginner?
Yes, with supervision. The bolt action is safe and teaches discipline, and the .22 WMR has minimal recoil. It’s a great step for a beginner who has mastered a .22 LR and is ready for a more capable hunting round.
What kind of scope can I put on the Rossi RB22M?
The receiver is drilled and tapped for a standard rimfire scope base (weaver-style). A 3-9×40 or a fixed 4x scope is an ideal match for the .22 WMR’s effective range. I always recommend using Loctite on the base screws.
Can I use .22 LR ammunition in this rifle?
Absolutely not. The Rossi RB22M is chambered exclusively for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR). Firing a .22 Long Rifle cartridge in this rifle is dangerous and can cause catastrophic failure.
Where can I buy Rossi RB22M magazines online?
We carry spare magazines for the Rossi RB22M. It’s a good idea to add one to your order. You can find them by searching “RB22M magazine” on our site, californiagunshop.com.
How accurate is the Rossi RB22M bolt action rifle?
With quality ammunition, you can expect 1 to 1.5 inch groups at 50 yards from a benched rest, which is more than accurate enough for its intended roles of small game hunting and pest control. Consistency comes from the shooter and finding the ammo it likes.
Where can I buy a bolt action rifle like this online?
You’re in the right place. As a licensed retailer, Californiagunshop (californiagunshop.com) can ship this Rossi RB22M directly to your local FFL dealer for a smooth, legal transfer process.
What’s the difference between the RB22M and other Rossi .22 bolt actions?
The “M” denotes Magnum (.22 WMR). Other models like the RB22 are for .22 LR. They may look similar, but the actions and barrels are built for different cartridges. Always confirm the caliber before purchasing.
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from San Antonio, TX
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
If the Rossi RB22M fits your needs for a straightforward, dependable .22 WMR platform, it’s a hard value to beat at this price. It’s the kind of rifle that won’t let you down when you need it.
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About this review: This assessment is based on my hands-on experience with the Rossi RB22M and similar firearms over 15 years in tactical retail, law enforcement armory work, and building over 300 custom rifles. My goal is to give you the practical, real-world insights you’d get if we were talking at the counter here in San Antonio.
Last updated: March 2026
