Crickett bolt action rifle guide: single shot, CPR and 722
Every Crickett bolt action rifle falls into three groups. Here is how they differ and who each one suits.
Every Crickett bolt action rifle we sell is a .22. The difference is how it loads and what stock it wears. There are three groups: the classic single shot youth rifle, the precision models built on the same action, and the 722 repeater. Here is how to choose between them.
1. The single shot Crickett bolt action rifle
This is the rifle most people picture. It’s a manually cocked single shot with a 16.1 inch barrel and a short stock for kids. You load one round, close the bolt and pull the cocking knob. Prices start at $139 for the black synthetic and run to around $200 for laminate and stainless versions. See the Crickett 22 LR rifles.
2. Precision and CPR models
These use the single shot action in a target stock. The CPR (Crickett Precision Rifle) has an adjustable length of pull (10.375, 11.125 or 11.875 inches), an adjustable cheek piece, a threaded bull barrel and Crickettinny rails. The packages include a scope with sun shade and a bipod. Look at the CPR in FDE, CPR in black and CPR in Kryptek. The Alloy Precision Rifle uses an aluminum chassis that takes AR grips, and the Target Model has a laminate thumbhole stock.
3. The Crickett 722 repeater
The 722 is a full size bolt action with a 7 round magazine, a 2 pound trigger and a 4140 barrel. It suits teens and adults. The Sporter Compact is the youth size, and the Precision Trainer is the match rifle. Our Crickett 722 guide covers each one.
Crickett Black Synthetic Blued 22 LR$139
Crickett CPR Package FDE$309
Crickett Alloy Precision Rifle$279
Crickett 722 Sporter Compact$249Single shot or repeater?
For a child’s first rifle, the single shot wins. It forces slow, careful shooting and makes it obvious when the rifle is loaded. A repeater makes sense once the shooter handles the rifle safely without reminders and wants quicker follow-up shots for small game or matches.
Bolt action care
All Crickett bolt actions are easy to clean. Run patches from the breech end, wipe the bolt face and add a drop of oil to the moving parts. Store the rifle unloaded, ideally with a cable lock through the open action, and keep ammo somewhere else.
Stocks and finishes
The single shot models come in more looks than any other rifle line we sell: synthetic, laminate, walnut, birch and dipped patterns like One Nation and Amendments, each in blued or stainless steel. The precision and 722 rifles are more practical: adjustable synthetic or aluminum chassis stocks, and walnut on the 722 Sporter, Classic and Varmint. See the laminate rifles and camo rifles for the full spread.
Which one to buy first
Buy the single shot for a child under about ten. Buy a CPR package when that child wants to shoot targets off a bench and the adjustable stock will keep fitting as they grow. Buy a 722 for a teen or adult who wants a repeater for squirrels or rimfire matches. Many families end up with two: the single shot for the youngest shooter and a 722 for the older one.
Prices at a glance
- Single shot youth rifles: $139 to about $230
- Precision and CPR packages: $229 to $549
- 722 repeaters: $249 to $549
Want more background on bolt actions in general? Wikipedia’s bolt action article is a good read. When you’re ready, browse every Crickett rifle for sale.
Crickett bolt action rifle FAQ
Are all Crickett rifles bolt actions?
Yes. The youth rifles, CPR models and the 722 all use bolt actions. The difference is single shot versus magazine fed.
Which Crickett bolt action rifle is best for a beginner?
The standard single shot, such as the black synthetic Crickett. It’s light, simple and inexpensive.
Is the CPR a repeater?
No. The CPR is a single shot in a precision stock.
Shop Crickett bolt action rifles
Single shots, CPR packages and 722 repeaters, all in stock with free shipping to your FFL dealer.
