HK USA Introduces New G36 .22LR Training Rifle
Author: Nick Miles | Publish Date: Mar 30, 2025
Heckler & Koch USA has recently announced the addition of a rimfire variant to their legendary G36 rifle lineup. Based in Georgia, the company revealed last week that they're importing this new .22LR training version of the iconic German firearm.
The G36 design, with its distinctive futuristic appearance, has an impressive pedigree. Originally adopted by the German military in 1997 as the "Gewehr 36," this rifle has seen service across more than 40 countries worldwide. The original 5.56 NATO version, featuring a short-stroke piston system with a rotating bolt, has seen production numbers exceeding 230,000 units and has firmly established itself as the spiritual successor to HK's renowned G3 battle rifle series.
While civilian shooters have had access to the sporting variant of the 5.56mm G36—marketed as the SL8 (Selbstladegewehr 1998)—that option comes with a substantial price tag starting around $1,400. The new rimfire version aims to deliver the G36 experience at a more accessible price point.
Manufactured in Germany by Umarex (the same company that produces HK's rimfire MP5 and 416 clones), the G36 .22LR features an 18.1-inch barrel and measures 38 inches in overall length with the stock extended. Weighing in at just 5.5 pounds, the rifle will be available with 20-round magazines in most states, with 10-round options for regions with capacity restrictions.
Nathan Schueth, HK USA's director of sales & business development, emphasized the care taken in developing this model: "The G36 .22 has been a labor of love. The G36 .22 is the enthusiast's rimfire: from its iconic silhouette, ambidextrous controls, and smooth recoil experience, we ensured that the G36 .22 is no mere imitation – it is a fully functional and fully-featured rifle. Our partners knocked it out of the park. The G36 .22 features wide compatibility with existing G36 accessories and is begging to be customized."
According to industry sources, the new HK G36 .22LR is expected to retail for approximately $600 MSRP.