It appears Rossi has been listening. The boffins in the R&D department have decided that the world, or at least the part of it that enjoys plinking with a .22, needs more. And so, they've taken their rather popular RS22 rifle and given it a rather significant trim. The result? The RS22 Pistol. It's a new dimension for the platform, a compact, little number that looks set to be the star of many a plinking at the range day. They've essentially taken a proven, no-nonsense design and repackaged it for those who prefer their firearms on the daintier, more nimble side.

The RS22 rifle has earned a solid reputation for being a reliable and affordable bit of kit. It’s the sort of firearm that you can chuck in the back of your Land Rover without a second thought. This new pistol version aims to carry on that legacy, but in a more compact form. Rossi seems to have hit the nail on the head here, creating a firearm that's equally at home dispatching a tin can or serving as a low-recoil trainer for those new to the sport. It’s got that “just right” feel, offering the same value and dependability that has made the RS22 rifle such a staple.

One of the most noticeable features—and something that will undoubtedly get the chaps on the range talking—is the 6-inch threaded barrel. This isn't just for show; it's a practical addition for anyone who likes a bit of peace and quiet. With a 1/2x28 thread, it’s ready to accept a suppressor, which is a blessing for your eardrums and your neighbours' patience. Imagine the scene: a nice afternoon, the scent of cordite in the air, and the gentle *thwump* of a suppressed rimfire instead of a cacophony. Rather civil, isn't it?

The AR-style pistol grip is another thoughtful touch. It's a familiar shape for anyone who has handled a modern sporting rifle, and it brings a new level of comfort and control to this rimfire platform. This isn't just about looks; it's about making the pistol feel natural in your hand, reducing fatigue, and helping you maintain a steady aim. It’s a bit like swapping out the old wooden steering wheel on your classic car for a nice, grippy, leather-wrapped one. A small change, but it makes all the difference.

For those who enjoy a bit of customization, the RS22 Pistol is a veritable playground. Rossi has included a rear-facing Picatinny rail for the easy attachment of a stabilizing brace. They even offer an optional Strike Industries FSA Brace for those who want a complete package right out of the box. This rail system, along with the aluminum Picatinny rail up top and a front accessory rail, means you're not just buying a pistol; you're buying a platform. Want to add an optic? A red dot sight? A torch for those late-night excursions? The RS22 Pistol says, "Go on then, knock yourself out."

And speaking of a complete package, the pistol ships with a 10-round magazine and it’s compatible with all existing RS22 rifle magazines. This means if you're already a fan of the rifle, your existing mags won't be gathering dust. It's a clever nod to customer loyalty and a practical solution that saves you from having to buy a whole new set of mags just for the pistol. It’s a bit like finding out your new kettle uses the same filter as your old one—a small victory, but a victory nonetheless.

Underneath all the new bells and whistles, the RS22 Pistol retains the heart of its rifle sibling. It’s still a hammer-fired action with a simple, effective cross-bolt safety. The matte black finish gives it a purposeful, no-frills look that says, "I'm here to do a job, not win a beauty contest." It’s that same reliable mechanism that has won over so many shooters, ensuring that while the form factor has changed, the dependability hasn't. It's all rather straightforward, which is exactly what you want when you're just out for a bit of fun.

Rossi seems to have nailed the brief with the RS22 Pistol. It’s a compact, versatile, and dare one say, approachable bit of kit. Whether you opt for the standalone pistol or the version with the Strike Industries brace, you're getting a firearm that’s as adaptable as it is enjoyable. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes less is more, especially when “less” means a lighter, handier, and more customizable package. All in all, it looks like a cracking bit of kit for a bit of rimfire shooting.

In a market often saturated with overly complex or prohibitively expensive options, the Rossi RS22 Pistol stands out by being refreshingly simple and effective. It builds on a solid foundation and offers a new way to enjoy the classic .22LR cartridge, proving that you don't need to reinvent the wheel to make something new and exciting. So, if you're looking to add a bit of joy to your plinking sessions, the RS22 Pistol might be just the ticket.