For years, Tandemkross has been the go-to source for the bits and bobs that make rimfire rifles run better. At the SHOT Show 2026, however, they decided to stop just accessorizing the party and finally hosted it themselves. The result is the TKX22 Light Rifle, the company’s first foray into manufacturing a complete firearm from the ground up. By combining their signature aftermarket components with a new proprietary receiver, they have produced a 10/22-compatible platform that feels less like a piece of hardware and more like a natural extension of one's arms.

The most immediate talking point is the weight—or the lack thereof. Tipping the scales at a mere 3 lbs. 6 oz unloaded, this rifle is light enough that you might find yourself checking your hands to ensure you’re still holding it. While many lightweight builds achieve their status by sacrificing rigidity or features, the TKX22 retains a solid feel. It is a purposeful design intended for those who spend long days on the range or trekking through the woods and would prefer their rifle not to double as a gym weight.

The TKX22 receiver serves as a sturdy foundation for the rest of the in-house and OEM components. One particularly feature is the integrally machined 0 MOA extended Picatinny rail. By machining the rail directly into the receiver, Tandemkross has removed the possibility of screws loosening under vibration, ensuring that your red dots or scopes stay exactly where you put them. Additionally, a cleaning port at the rear allows for bore maintenance without the usual mechanical gymnastics.

The barrel is where things get technically interesting. The Spitfire Lightweight barrel uses a tensioned stainless steel core wrapped in a ventilated aluminum shroud. This best of both worlds approach provides the accuracy of a true barrel blank and the durability of a hardened breech face, while the shroud sheds heat and unnecessary ounces. For those who like to customize, the shroud features M-LOK slots, allowing for the direct attachment of lights or lasers without the need for a bulky traditional handguard.

Out of the box, the rifle is ready for immediate use, equipped with Eagle Eye Fiber Optic Sights. These provide a bright, high-contrast sight picture that is particularly helpful for those of us whose eyes aren't quite what they used to be. The rear sight is fully adjustable for windage and elevation, offering a 14-inch sight radius. If you prefer a quieter experience, the muzzle is threaded at 1/2"x28, making it a very capable host for your favorite suppressor right from day one.

For control, this is handled by the Manticore LITE Trigger Assembly, which offers an adjustable weight pull ranging from 2.5 lb. to 5.5 lb. This allows the user to tune the break to their specific preference, whether they are focused on precision small game hunting or rapid-fire competition. The inclusion of the Guardian Bolt Release is another thoughtful touch, enabling a simple slingshot motion to chamber a round rather than fumbling with the traditional factory-style bolt lock.

Feeding issues are often the bane of rimfire existence, but Tandemkross addresses this by including an Assembled DoubleKross Magazine. This unit effectively pins two 10-round magazines together, giving you 20 rounds of capacity in a single footprint. The rifle remains fully compatible with standard Ruger 10/22 magazines and most aftermarket stocks designed for bull barrels, ensuring that your existing collection of gear won't go to waste if you decide to swap the Magpul stock for something else.

On the financial side of things, the TKX22 Light Rifle carries an MSRP of $1,449.99. While this sits at a higher price point than a basic entry-level rimfire, the cost reflects the inclusion of a high-end trigger, a specialized barrel, and a machined receiver. For the enthusiast who would likely spend several hundred dollars on these upgrades anyway, having them professionally fitted and tuned from the factory offers a certain peace of mind and saves quite a bit of workbench time.

Looking ahead, the company is already hinting at further expansions for this platform. With the standalone ADX receiver series expected to ship later in 2026—featuring left-hand charging options—and whispers of a potential takedown version in the works, the TKX22 is likely just the beginning of a broader family of firearms. For now, it stands as a well-engineered choice for anyone looking to lighten their load without compromising on the features that make a 22 LR fun to shoot.