Custom Dakota Arms Model 22 22 Long Rifle Bolt Action Rimfire Rifle & Scope
SOLD FOR: $4,430.00
LSB#: LSB251014RR016
Make: Dakota Arms
Model: 22
Serial Number: 0127
Year of Manufacture: Circa 2004
Caliber: .22LR
Action Type: Bolt Action, fed by Detachable Magazine under the Hinged Floorplate.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “22 LR”. The left side of the receiver is marked “DAKOTA ARMS / 22”, along with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 22″
Sights / Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights. The top of the receiver is mounted with a Leupold Vari-X 3-9 E.F.R. scope with a duplex reticle. The glass in the scope is clear. The scope shows light handling wear. Overall, the scope rates in Very Good to Fine condition. The scope is mounted on a two-piece base, and sits in 1″ rings.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered Claro Walnut stock, made by Edward J. Shulin, the stockmaking instructor at Trinidad State Gunsmithing School. The stock features a capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, checkered steel buttplate, and sling rings front and rear. The stock has a camo nylon sling attached. The LOP measures 13 1/2″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock shows light wear, with only a few compression marks and dings scattered throughout. The stock’s finish is completely intact, and the wood grain is beautiful. The checkering is well defined, with sharp peaks. The stock fits tightly to the barreled action, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in Fine condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x 5rd factory magazine, in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Matte Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows operational wear on the bolt and friction surfaces of the action. Otherwise, the matte bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. The trigger has a very light, crisp and clean break, with minimal take-up or over-travel. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with the scope, sling, and magazine as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: Dakota Arms rifles have long occupied the upper echelon of American sporting arms, known for their premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and custom-grade execution. The Dakota Model 22 is no exception; a rimfire designed and built with the same attention to detail as Dakota’s legendary centerfire Model 76. Produced in small numbers and priced as true luxury rifles when new, the Model 22 has become increasingly collectible as Dakota’s early production era gains historical and aesthetic appreciation.
This example stands out immediately with its beautifully executed Claro walnut stock, custom-made by Edward J. Shulin, an instructor at the renowned Trinidad State Gunsmithing School and a respected stockmaker in his own right. The wood features striking grain, sharply cut checkering, and classic lines that complement the Model 22’s refined action. The fit is superb, with tight inletting and no play between wood and metal. Light handling marks are present but minimal, and the stock remains visually and structurally exceptional.
Mechanically, the rifle is equally impressive. The action cycles smoothly with minimal friction, and the trigger is exceptionally crisp with a light, competition-quality break. The bore is flawless; bright, sharp, and rating a 10/10, consistent with a rifle that has seen careful, limited use. Externally, the matte blued finish remains deep and even, disturbed only by normal operational wear on the bolt. Topped with a Leupold Vari-X 3–9 E.F.R. scope, an ideal optic for precision rimfire shooting—the rifle is ready for both field and bench applications. With its magazine concealed beneath a hinged floorplate, elegant stock design, and precision build, the Dakota Model 22 offers the look and feel of a scaled-down custom centerfire rifle.
As a complete package, with a custom stock, top-tier optics, and rating in Fine condition, this Dakota Arms Model 22 represents a rare opportunity for serious rimfire collectors or shooters who appreciate bespoke American craftsmanship. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – J.D.
