There are .22s you shoot because they’re convenient, and then there are .22s that make you forget you’re supposed to be testing a rifle.
The TANDEMKROSS TKX22 Light Rifle falls into the latter category.
From the first few shots, the TKX22 proved to be an exceptionally lively little rifle. It comes in at just 3 pounds, 6 ounces unloaded, and that featherweight design is immediately noticeable when the rifle comes to the shoulder. TANDEMKROSS built the TKX22 around components developed and field-tested with rimfire competition in mind, and the result is a rifle that feels purpose-built for speed.
RANGE TEST
Shooting the TKX22 was a dream.
The rifle’s combination of low weight, bright fiber-optic sights and crisp handling made getting on target fast and transitioning between targets almost effortless. The sights are optimized for quick target acquisition, and the rifle’s lightweight design makes it exceptionally easy to maneuver.
But speed doesn’t mean much without accuracy.
The TKX22 delivered pinpoint accuracy during our shooting session, producing the kind of predictable performance that inspires confidence shot after shot. Whether engaging individual targets or moving rapidly between them, the rifle remained easy to control and remarkably consistent.
And perhaps just as important, it simply ran.
The TKX22 performed flawlessly throughout the range session. Its competition-oriented component package includes TANDEMKROSS’ TKX22 receiver, Spitfire Lightweight Barrel, M-LOK fiber-optic sights, Manticore LITE Trigger Assembly, KrossFire Bolt and Spartan charging handle.
That parts selection isn’t accidental. TANDEMKROSS describes each component as having been field-tested by experienced rimfire competitors, and the rifle’s overall configuration reflects that emphasis on speed and reliability.
LIGHTWEIGHT DOESN’T MEAN LIGHT ON FEATURES
At 3 pounds, 6 ounces, the TKX22 is remarkably easy to carry, but TANDEMKROSS didn’t strip away the features shooters expect from a modern rimfire.
An extended 0 MOA Picatinny rail is machined directly into the receiver, providing a solid mounting platform for optics. Additional M-LOK slots on the barrel expand the rifle’s accessory options, while the Magpul MOE X-22 stock provides another mounting location for equipment such as bipods or ARCA rails.
The 16.5-inch stainless-steel barrel is threaded 1/2×28, adding suppressor-host capability where legally permitted. For a rifle intended to spend plenty of time on the range—or accompany its owner into the field—that versatility is a significant advantage.
TRIGGER AND CONTROLS
The Manticore LITE Trigger Assembly gives the shooter another degree of adjustability, with a specified trigger-pull adjustment range of 2.5 to 5.5 pounds.
The rifle is also compatible with factory Ruger 10/22 parts and magazines, broadening the number of configuration options available to owners.
TANDEMKROSS also includes its DoubleKross Magazine, which features two independent 10-round compartments in a double-ended configuration.
THE TAKEAWAY
The TKX22 is a rifle that makes sense the moment you start shooting it.
It’s light enough to carry all day, quick enough for fast target transitions and accurate enough to make precision shooting genuinely enjoyable. The rifle combines a competition-minded component package with a highly adaptable chassis and mounting system, while maintaining the simple appeal that makes .22 LR such a popular cartridge.
For our range session, the standout characteristics were clear: pinpoint accuracy, flawless performance and exceptionally quick handling.
The TKX22 doesn’t feel like a lightweight rifle that had features removed to save ounces. It feels like a lightweight rifle that was designed around speed from the beginning.
And that’s a significant difference.
SPECIFICATIONS
Manufacturer: TANDEMKROSS
Model: TKX22 Light Rifle
Chambering: .22 Long Rifle Sporting
Barrel Length: 16.5 inches
Barrel: Stainless steel
Twist Rate: 1:16
Overall Length: 34.75 inches
Unloaded Weight: 3 lbs., 6 oz.
Length of Pull: 13.75 inches
Muzzle Threads: 1/2×28
Receiver: Aluminum, hardcoat anodized
Stock: Polymer
Barrel Shroud: Anodized aluminum
Trigger Adjustment: 2.5–5.5 lbs.
Sights: M-LOK fiber-optic
Optic Mount: Extended 0 MOA Picatinny rail
Colors: Black, FDE, OD Green, Stealth Grey
Magazine: DoubleKross, two independent 10-round compartments
Compatibility: Factory Ruger 10/22 parts and magazines
