Frugal Tactical: Retay USA's RA1522 Line

There’s no substitute for trigger time on the range, but this vital practice can be hampered by the cost of ammunition. This is where .22 LR-chambered firearms come in. They can provide real-world training at a fraction of the cost of centerfire. Retay USA is an importer known for its line of hunting, sporting and defensive shotguns. New for 2026, the company is moving into the “tactical rimfire” field with its AR-15-style RA1522 rifles and pistol.  

RA1522 firearms are chambered in .22 LR and use a blowback-operated action with a polymer upper and lower receiver. Controls mimic the AR-15, with a rear mounted ambidextrous charging handle, bilateral safety selectors, a left-side bolt release and right-side magazine release. Other details include a working dustcover, molded-in case deflector and Picatinny rail for the length of the upper receiver and handguard. Each RA1522 is supplied with front and rear folding adjustable back-up sights. Magazines have an assist tab for loading and a capacity of 25 rounds. They are available in 10-round capacities as well. Both retail for $40.  

The RA1522 will be offered in both rifle and pistol formats. RA1522 rifles have a 16.5-inch barrel. The muzzle of the barrel is threaded 1/2x28 TPI and the portion of the barrel where it extends beyond the handguard is covered by a shroud. A three-position adjustable stock is mounted on the receiver extension. 

Rifles are available in three versions: polymer handguard or aluminum handguard with M-Lok slots and an M4-style stock (MSRPs $359 and $409) or a polymer handguard with quad Picatinny rails and a minimalist stock (MSRP $359). Each model weighs 4.74 pounds.

The pistol version has an 8.34-inch barrel and has a section of Picatinny rail on the rear of the receiver for attaching a stabilizing arm brace or other accessory. Its forearm is made of aluminum and has M-Lok attachments points. With the brace folded, it has an overall length of 16 inches and weighs 3 pounds, 4 ounces. Its MSRP is $359.

For more information, see the company's website.