Rossi RS22

About the Rossi RS22

Rossi is a Brazilian manufacturer known for affordable, practical firearms for the American market — their Rio Bravo lever-action and Brawler single-shot have built a following among value-conscious shooters. The RS22 extends that value proposition into the AR-style semi-auto .22 category — a platform that teaches AR-15 manual of arms and ergonomics at .22 LR ammunition prices, making it an excellent training companion for AR-15 owners and an ideal first semi-auto for new shooters.

Key Features

AR-style ergonomics — Pistol grip, inline stock, and the general layout of an AR-15 carbine in .22 LR. For new shooters learning the AR manual of arms or AR owners wanting a budget-friendly trainer, the ergonomic familiarity is the RS22's primary appeal.

10-round rotary magazine — Standard 10-round rotary magazine for reliable feeding across standard and high-velocity .22 LR loads.

Threaded barrel option — Select RS22 configurations include a threaded barrel for suppressor use. As of January 1, 2026, suppressors require only a standard background check.

Adjustable stock — Collapsible stock on most configurations for fitting different shooter sizes — useful for youth shooters and families sharing one rifle.

Picatinny rail — Top rail for optics mounting. A red dot on the RS22 makes it an excellent close-range training tool.

RS22 Variants

RS22 .22 LR — Standard configuration in .22 LR. The most affordable RS22 and the right choice for most buyers.

RS22 .22 WMR — The .22 Magnum version for more varmint-capable performance. Same AR-style platform in the more powerful rimfire cartridge.

RS22 Sport — Enhanced configuration with improved components and finish over the standard RS22.

RS22 vs. Smith & Wesson M&P15-22

The S&W M&P15-22 is the benchmark AR-style .22 — full-scale AR-15 dimensions, excellent reliability, and a broad aftermarket. The RS22 is less expensive with similar basic functionality. For shooters who want the most authentic AR training experience and plan to run AR-15 accessories on their .22, the M&P15-22 is the stronger choice. For shooters who want an affordable AR-style .22 for plinking and youth training, the RS22 delivers the essential experience at a lower price.

FAQ

What caliber is the Rossi RS22?
Available in .22 LR and .22 WMR. The two are separate models — not interchangeable.

Does the Rossi RS22 have a threaded barrel?
Select RS22 configurations include a threaded barrel. Verify the specific SKU before purchasing if suppressor compatibility is required.

What magazines does the Rossi RS22 use?
Rossi's proprietary 10-round rotary magazine. Not compatible with Ruger 10/22 BX magazines.

Is the Rossi RS22 good for youth shooters?
Yes — the adjustable stock, minimal recoil, and AR-style ergonomics make the RS22 a practical youth training platform for families with AR-15s who want their young shooters to learn on the same manual of arms.