Rossi Expands Popular RS22 Platform with New Semi-Automatic Rimfire Pistol

Building on a Proven Foundation

From Rifle Success to Pistol Innovation

Rossi has taken its acclaimed RS22 rimfire rifle platform and transformed it into an exciting new pistol configuration. The RS22 rifle, which debuted in 2018, quickly established itself as a standout performer in the affordable plinking rifle segment, earning widespread recognition among shooters seeking reliable rimfire performance without breaking the bank.

Dual Configuration Options

The manufacturer is launching two distinct variants of the RS22 pistol, giving consumers flexibility in their purchase decision. Shooters can choose between a standard pistol configuration or opt for a version equipped with a Strike Industries stabilizing brace for enhanced shooting stability.

RS22 Pistol Design and Features

Core Specifications

The new RS22 pistol maintains the proven reliability of its rifle counterpart while adapting to a more compact platform. Chambered in .22 LR, the pistol utilizes the same single-stack 10-round magazine system that has made the RS22 rifle series so dependable across both .22 LR and .22 WMR variants.

Barrel and Suppressor Compatibility

Threaded Barrel Configuration

• Barrel Length: 6 inches
• Threading: Factory threaded for suppressor compatibility
• Caliber: .22 LR
• Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds (single-stack design)

The threaded barrel design makes this pistol suppressor-ready straight from the factory, appealing to shooters who want to enjoy quieter plinking sessions or tactical training.

Tactical Features and Modularity

Rail Systems and Accessories

• Top Rail: Aluminum Picatinny rail for optics mounting
• Front Rail: Accessory rail for tactical additions
• Rear Rail: Picatinny rail designed for stabilizing brace attachment
• Grip: AR-style pistol grip for familiar ergonomics

The comprehensive rail system allows users to customize their RS22 pistol with various accessories including hand stops, tactical lights, laser sights, and optical devices. The rear-facing Picatinny rail specifically accommodates stabilizing braces, including the optional Strike Industries FSA Single Folder.

Magazine Compatibility and Capacity Options

Standard and Extended Magazine Support

The RS22 pistol ships with a 10-round magazine and maintains full compatibility with all existing RS22 rifle magazines. This cross-platform compatibility ensures that current RS22 rifle owners can share magazines between their firearms.

Enhanced Capacity Options

An interesting compatibility feature is the pistol's ability to accept 25-round extended magazines originally designed for the Mossberg 702 Plinkster. This compatibility significantly increases the fun factor and extends shooting sessions without frequent reloading.

Product Variants and Pricing

Standard Configuration

• Model: Unbraced RS22 Pistol
• UPC: 754908363902
• MSRP: $189.99

Brace-Equipped Configuration

• Model: RS22 Pistol with Strike Industries Brace
• UPC: 754908900732
• MSRP: $398.99

Value Analysis

The pricing structure reflects the added value of the stabilizing brace, with the braced version commanding a $209 premium over the standard model. This pricing aligns well with market expectations, considering Strike Industries sells their braces independently for approximately $170.

Market Position and Appeal

The RS22 pistol represents Rossi's commitment to expanding their successful rimfire platform while maintaining the value-oriented pricing that made the original rifle so popular. By offering both braced and unbraced configurations, Rossi provides options for different shooting preferences and budget considerations, ensuring broad market appeal for this innovative rimfire pistol.