RXR22: Savage Arms Redefines The Budget Rimfire Rifle

Despite offering a full lineup that includes handguns and shotguns, when one hears the name “Savage,” the first thing that comes to mind is rifles. The company has ceaselessly introduced new and updated models of affordable and innovative rifles, from straight-pull bolt-action hunting rifles to new rimfire lever guns. New for 2025, Savage is bringing a simple, modular and affordable semi-automatic rimfire rifle to the market with its RXR22.

Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, the RXR22 uses a simple blowback action. The Ruger 10/22 is the semi-automatic rimfire market standard, just like the AR-15 is to centerfire semi-auto rifles. Consequently, Savage has designed the RXR22 for maximum capability with the vast aftermarket of 10/22 parts and accessories, including magazines, triggers and barrels (up to .920” diameter).

The supplied magazine is a rotary, 10-round detachable box that holds the bolt open after the last round is fired and can be released with an extended lever in front of the triggerguard. Other controls include a bolt release and a crossbolt safety mounted in the triggerguard. The quick-release trigger group can be removed from the action by pressing a button on the rear of the receiver when it is removed from the stock.

The RXR22’s barrel is 16.5” and is precision button-rifled with a recessed target crown. Its muzzle is threaded 1/2x28 TPI for the attachment of suppressors and other muzzle accessories, and the rifle comes with a thread protector. The RXR22 uses a polymer receiver with a built-in M1913 Picatinny rail for mounting optics. The receiver has a port in the rear that allows the barrel to be cleaned from the chamber end while the barrel is mounted to the action.

An innovative polymer stock design, with a near vertical grip with removable inserts to customize fit (small, medium and large inserts are supplied with the rifle) and a rear cut-out for offhand support in a stabilized shooting position, is used on the RXR22. The stock also has metal quick-detachable sling swivel studs and a molded-in section of Picatinny rail on the fore-end for mounting bipods or other accessories. The RXR22 is available with either a flat dark-earth (FDE) or gun-metal gray colored stock. All metal parts are given a flat black finish. The rifle weighs 4.6 lbs.

The Savage RXR22 has an MSRP of $299. For more information, see the company’s website.