Description
The Rock Island Armory M14Y Youth .22LR is a bolt-action rifle built for a first-time shooter. It’s scaled down for a younger shooter but doesn’t skimp on the fundamentals, offering a solid, accurate platform to learn on without breaking the bank.
Key Features
- Youth-Sized Stock: The 12.5-inch length of pull is about an inch and a half shorter than a standard adult rifle, making it much more manageable for smaller frames.
- Single-Shot Bolt Action: This is a teaching tool. The manual operation forces focus on fundamentals like sight alignment, breathing, and trigger control for every shot.
- Adjustable Sights: It comes with a fully adjustable rear sight for windage and elevation—a feature I appreciate on any .22 trainer.
- Integral 11mm Dovetail: The receiver is cut for standard rimfire optics mounts, so adding a simple scope later is straightforward.
- Manual Safety: A positive, easy-to-operate safety is right where you’d expect it, reinforcing safe handling habits from day one.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Action | Bolt Action, Single Shot |
| Barrel Length | 16.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 33 inches |
| Weight | 4 lbs |
| Stock | Hardwood, Youth Model |
| Magazine | Single Shot (No magazine) |
| Sights | Adjustable Rear, Blade Front |
Honest Assessment
Pros: It’s an incredibly affordable and purpose-built trainer. The weight and dimensions are just right for a kid, and the action is simple and reliable. I’ve run thousands of rounds of .22 through guns like this in my shop, and they just work. The adjustable sights are a real plus at this price.
Cons: It is a single-shot only, which will feel slow for plinking once the basics are mastered. The hardwood stock is functional but plain; it’s a tool, not a showpiece. The trigger is serviceable but has some creep—typical for an entry-level rifle.
Who Should Buy This
This is for a parent or mentor looking to introduce a young person to rifle shooting safely and correctly. It’s perfect for 4-H, youth safety courses, or backyard target practice. It’s also a great, low-cost option for an adult who wants a no-frills, accurate single-shot .22 for squirrel hunting or tin-can plinking.
FAQ
Can an adult shoot this comfortably?
Yes, but it will feel short. An average adult will likely find the stock too compact for extended shooting sessions, but it’s certainly usable for teaching or occasional use.
Is it easy to mount a scope?
Yes. The 11mm dovetail is a standard rimfire mounting system. You’ll need a set of low rimfire rings to attach a scope directly to the receiver.
What’s the accuracy like?
With decent ammunition, you can expect 1 to 1.5-inch groups at 50 yards from a rest. After decades of testing .22s, I’ve seen firsthand that this level of performance is more than adequate for its intended role as a trainer.
Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
No, the barrel is not threaded. This is a straightforward, traditional rifle design.
Reviews
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