Budget .22 AR "Like" Rifle for the Poors

Published on March 19, 2026
Duration: 6:11

This video review by TheFirearmGuy provides an in-depth look at the Retay RA 1522, a budget-friendly AR-style .22LR rifle. The instructor highlights its value as a training tool for the AR platform, emphasizing its affordability, lightweight polymer construction, and numerous ambidextrous controls. The review covers features like the adjustable stock, quad rail handguard, suppressor-ready barrel shroud, and included flip-up sights, concluding it's a fun and practical option for range use.

Quick Summary

The Retay RA 1522 is an affordable AR-style .22LR rifle, priced around $300, making it an excellent budget training tool. It features ambidextrous controls, a quad rail handguard, suppressor-ready barrel shroud, and lightweight polymer construction, offering great value for range practice and plinking.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Intro & Retay Handgun
  2. 00:21Retay RA 1522 Introduction
  3. 00:48Features & Controls
  4. 01:15Handguard & Accessories
  5. 01:47Sights & Build Material
  6. 02:32Suppressor & Barrel
  7. 03:31Magazine & Ammunition
  8. 04:00Trigger & Performance
  9. 04:30Training Tool & Value
  10. 04:45Future Upgrades & Accuracy
  11. 05:09Conclusion & Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Retay RA 1522 a good budget option?

The Retay RA 1522 is considered a budget-friendly option due to its street price around $300 and the significantly lower cost of .22LR ammunition compared to centerfire cartridges, making it ideal for affordable practice and plinking.

What are the key features of the Retay RA 1522?

Key features include an adjustable 3-position stock, ambidextrous controls (charging handle, selector, bolt release, mag release), a quad rail handguard, a full-length top rail, included flip-up sights, and a removable barrel shroud for suppressor use.

Is the Retay RA 1522 suitable as a training tool?

Yes, the RA 1522 is an excellent training tool for the AR-15 platform. Its similar manual of arms, lightweight design, and affordable operation allow new shooters to familiarize themselves with AR controls and shooting fundamentals without the high cost of centerfire ammunition.

What type of ammunition was used in the Retay RA 1522 review?

The reviewer used Federal Automatch Ammunition, specifically 40-grain round nose .22LR cartridges, and reported no failures during testing, indicating good reliability with this load.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from TheFirearmGuy

View all →