Model 2020 Rimfire Review: Hands-on With Springfield Armory’s Refined Bolt Action Rifle

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When Springfield released the first Model 2020, I was intrigued. But not having constant access to the types of ranges where I could push it to its limits from a distance perspective, I held off.

But then, the Model 2020 Rimfire came out last year, and I knew it was only a matter of time before I was behind the trigger of one. When Springfield offered to send one out to review over the summer, I jumped at the opportunity.

A quality rimfire rifle is one of those firearms that I believe every shooter should have in their collection. Whether you’re trying to put food on the table, teach a first-time shooter, or simply have a relaxing Saturday plinking at pop cans, a rimfire rifle can help.

The Model 2020 Rimfire checks many boxes on paper, but the real test is how it performs.

Since receiving the rifle, I’ve put 30 magazines through it, or 300 rounds. With a mixture of primarily 40-grain CCI Standard Velocity LRNs, 40-grain Aguila High Velocity SPs, and 36-grain Winchester JHPs, the rifle proved not picky with ammo.

I also tested the rifle with the included 10-round Springfield magazine and some spare 10-round Ruger magazines I had lying around. All in all, the magazines and ammo functioned great.

One round got jammed as I tried to chamber it, but it looked to have some dings in the tip of the bullet, so I assume it just got snagged. Other than that, I’ve had no issues so far.

Reliability was easily verified, and so was accuracy. Even within the first magazine, I had groupings like the one pictured below. Sure, it was only at 20 yards, but it was a good start that set the tone.

Over the next couple of weeks, I spent some time nailing pop cans and other miscellaneous items at 50 yards with no problems whatsoever. I don’t hunt, so I can’t speak to any successes or failures from that perspective, but I can easily see this rifle taking varmint with ease.

While not a scientific judge of accuracy, my random items at 50 yards prove more than adequate for my typical uses. Regarding the accuracy guarantee, I’m confident that plenty of better shooters with better ammo would have a walk in the park placing their groupings under an inch at 50 yards.

There are plenty of stock options when ordering your 2020 Rimfire. From a simplistic black synthetic stock to a grade AAA walnut stock, there is undoubtedly one to fit your preferences. I went with the OD green synthetic stock with black webbing and love how it looks.

Looks aside, Springfield included several features that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Remington 700 Pattern Trigger

Factory set at 4.5 pounds, the Remington 700 pattern trigger is an excellent choice for this rifle. I’ve seen some complaints about it potentially being “too heavy,” but I disagree; it seems just right. It’s adjustable, so you can tweak it as you feel fit.

I kept the trigger exactly how it came from the factory and have no intentions of changing it. The break is crisp, and took no time to get acclimated to.

Hard Chrome Bolt & Threaded Bolt Handle

Springfield went with a hard chrome bolt and a 60-degree bolt handle to keep the rifle feeding flawlessly and cycling smoothly. The two work perfectly together, and the angle makes it easy to get quick follow-up shots off.

Small details weren’t overlooked either, as the bolt handle is threaded to allow for the installation of aftermarket bolt knobs. I found the bolt knob to be fine, but it’s nice to have the ability to change it if you wish.

Interrupted Picatinny Rail

In a world filled with optics, a Picatinny rail is an excellent choice by Springfield. Whether you want to mount your favorite scope, red dot, or LPVO, you can do so quickly and easily. However, I’m not quite sure what the pros of having the rail interrupted are.

Sure, it saves some weight and has a unique look, but I would have preferred a non-interrupted rail. With the Primary Arms LPVO that I mounted for testing, there was virtually no ability to change its position forward or backward. Not a big deal, but having the option down the road would be nice.

Reliability (10/10)  

One malfunction out of 300 rounds, with the ammo being to blame.

Customization (9/10)

Accepts Ruger magazines, you can adjust the trigger, and you can add your favorite optic, suppressor, and bipod.

Appearance (9/10)

It’s subtle and unique, and I love the shade of OD green.

Value (8.5/10)

You can find some more affordable options, but they likely won’t match the quality of the 2020 Rimfire.

Magpul MOE Bipod

While you don’t technically need a bipod, they sure do help. I had my Magpul MOE Bipod mounted on another rifle during my testing of the Model 2020, but it’s likely the one that will make its way over to it.

Constructed from injection molded polymer, it’s lightweight yet durable, and its adjustability makes it extremely versatile. It’s a little pricier than your no-name Amazon options, but you definitely get what you pay for.

Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Scope

If you want a high-quality scope that doesn’t break the bank, consider the Crossfire II Rimfire Scope from Vortex. This second focal plane scope features a basic but popular V-Plex reticle (MOA), multi-coated lenses, and rugged construction. At this price, it’s hard to beat.

This rifle is one that I can see remaining in my collection indefinitely, and seeing some serious trigger time over the years. Through my short time with it, it’s been reliable and accurate, and I love that you can spend all day shooting without spending a fortune on ammo.

Given the aftermarket compatibility with other popular parts and accessories and the fact the rifle comes in under $500, it shows how much Springfield is considering the end users. If you happen to be in the market for a bolt-action rimfire rifle, I believe the Model 2020 Rimfire is one you should consider.

As always, stay safe, train hard, and have fun.