The Mossberg Blaze, introduced in early 2015, is a lightweight, budget-friendly .22LR carbine that stands out for its affordability, especially when compared to its main competitor, the Ruger 10/22. Weighing in at just 3.5 lbs, the Blaze is significantly lighter than the Ruger 10/22, which weighs almost 5 pounds. This weight difference is due to the Blaze's predominantly plastic construction, including the receiver and stock. The rifle features a 16.5" blued barrel, which has proven to be durable, resisting rust and pitting over time. Disassembly is straightforward, requiring only a Phillips head screwdriver. The Mossberg Blaze comes with a standard 10-round magazine, with the option to upgrade to a 25-round magazine. An interesting feature of the Blaze is its Last Round Bolt Hold Open function, which many shooters appreciate. The Blaze also allows the bolt to be locked to the rear by manually pushing the charging handle into place. Available in various stock finishes, including black synthetic, Moonshine Muddy Girl Camo, and Kryptek Highlander Camo, the Blaze is both versatile and fun to shoot. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry with a sling, making it ideal for plinking, small game hunting, or even lightweight pest control on a farm or ranch.