Lightweight rifles demand respect because they require precise fundamentals. There’s no hiding behind mass or recoil absorption; you have to run the gun clean and steady. For new shooters, or anyone sharpening their marksmanship at the rimfire range, a purpose-built .22 LR that rewards discipline is worth its weight in brass.
SAVAGE ARMS RASCAL GATOR CAMO
Why this little bolt gun matters
At just over 2 pounds, this single-shot bolt action is a study in fundamentals. The .22 LR chambering is affordable, quiet, and practical for developing skills. The light weight makes it manageable for younger shooters, while experienced hands will appreciate how honestly it reflects input—every breath, every trigger press, every follow-through. Precision starts here.
Savage Arms has a reputation for accuracy-forward rifles across the spectrum. That DNA shows up in the Rascal’s carbon steel, blued barrel with a target crown and a 1:16 twist—purpose-built for .22 LR accuracy. The barrel length sits at 16.125 inches, a sweet spot for balance and consistency with common rimfire loads. Combined with a steel receiver and an adjustable AccuTrigger, you get a training rifle that behaves like a scaled-down precision tool rather than a toy.
Key features that earn a slot in your rack
Single-shot discipline
Capacity is 1 by design. A single-shot action slows the process and builds repeatable mechanics: load, close bolt, find natural point of aim, press, and evaluate. If you’re teaching a new shooter, there’s no magazine to manage and no rapid-fire distractions; it’s pure, controlled marksmanship from round one.
AccuTrigger advantage
The adjustable AccuTrigger is the beating heart of this rifle. A clean, consistent break is non-negotiable for small-bore accuracy. With the AccuTrigger, you can tune the pull to match the shooter, reinforcing proper trigger control without surprises. It’s a standout feature at this price point and one reason Savage rifles punch above their weight.
Peep sights that teach the eye
Adjustable peep sights are a classic educator. They drive focus to the front sight, keep the sight picture clear, and translate perfectly to future aperture or optic use. The Rascal’s peep setup is simple, rugged, and easy to adjust. When you’re ready to stretch the system, the receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, so growth is built in from day one.
Rimfire reliability
A proper feed ramp and manual safety round out the action. The ramp keeps chambering smooth, especially useful for newer shooters loading one round at a time. The manual safety is straightforward to run and easy to teach. As an added safety layer, the rifle can be unloaded without pulling the trigger—a smart detail that speaks to the platform’s training-first design.
.22 LR: the right caliber for learning and lasting value
Rimfire is the king of reps. Low recoil keeps flinching at bay, inexpensive ammo means more time behind the rifle, and a 1:16 twist stabilizes typical .22 LR projectiles well. The result is better feedback on position, breathing, and trigger work—skills that transfer directly to centerfire platforms. If you’re building a family range day or refining your fundamentals, .22 LR is the practical choice.
Stock, finish, and field handling
The synthetic stock in Gator Camo is built for durability over drama. It shrugs off scrapes and weather, and the compact overall package—paired with that 16.125-inch barrel—offers effortless handling on the bench or offhand. The blued finish on the carbon steel barrel provides classic protection and a clean look. This model sits in the Bolt Action category, which means you get a consistent manual of arms, easy maintenance, and the kind of mechanical simplicity that makes long-term reliability a given.
Optics path: from irons to glass
Start on the peep sights to establish natural point of aim and a solid cadence. When the shooter is ready, the drilled and tapped receiver simplifies the transition to a rimfire scope. That progression—peep to optic—builds confidence and capability without complicating the rifle. It’s a smart pathway for youth shooters and a refined training ladder for adults.
View product details and pricing
Specs that matter on the line
- Action: Single-shot bolt
- Caliber: .22 LR
- Capacity: 1
- Barrel: 16.125 inches, carbon steel, blued, target crown
- Twist: 1:16
- Sights: Adjustable peep
- Receiver: Steel, drilled and tapped for scope mounts
- Trigger: Adjustable AccuTrigger
- Stock: Synthetic, Gator Camo
- Safety: Manual; can be unloaded without pulling the trigger
- Weight: Just over 2 pounds
- Model: Youth
Training use cases
First rifle for new shooters
The size, weight, and single-shot action keep things calm and controlled. You can coach breathing, position, and trigger control without chasing malfunctions or managing multiple rounds. It builds safe habits from the very first trigger press.
Precision practice for experienced shooters
Rimfire reps are never wasted. Use the Rascal to drill natural point of aim, break shots on a metronome, and call each impact. The target crown protects accuracy, and the AccuTrigger makes micro-adjustments tangible. This is a great travel companion to any centerfire day—start with the .22 to get your mechanics dialed, then scale up.
Price and value
At $226.99, this rifle delivers uncommon value: a steel receiver, target-crowned carbon steel barrel, adjustable peep sights, and the AccuTrigger—plus the ability to add optics later. It’s a long-term training tool with minimal operating cost thanks to .22 LR. For families building out a safe, reliable range kit, that price-to-capability ratio is hard to beat.
Care, maintenance, and longevity
Keep it simple: a light coat of oil on the bolt and receiver raceways, protect the blued barrel with a quality oil after cleaning, and check the sights for tightness after travel. Synthetic stocks take a beating without complaint, and the straightforward bolt action keeps service easy. With reasonable care, you’re looking at a rifle that will train multiple generations.
Who it’s for
- Parents and mentors guiding a first-time shooter
- Rimfire enthusiasts seeking a disciplined, single-shot trainer
- Marksmen refining fundamentals before a centerfire session
- Anyone wanting a lightweight, reliable .22 LR bolt action in the Bolt Action category
If a rifle can teach, this one does. It rewards patience, it builds confidence, and it grows with the shooter from irons to glass. When the fundamentals matter—and they always do—this compact .22 LR becomes more than a starter gun; it’s a cornerstone of good shooting. Check current availability
People Also Ask
What makes this product stand out from competitors?
This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Is this product suitable for beginners?
Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.
What warranty or support is available?
The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.
How does this compare to similar products in its price range?
This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.
What maintenance is required?
Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.
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