The Ruger 10/22 is the most popular .22 long gun sold in the United States and for some very good reasons. The Ruger is inexpensive, accurate, extremely reliable, and highly customizable. The aftermarket support for the 10/22 is second to no other gun.
Project: Ruger 10/22 was created from the concept of building a compact but highly accurate rimfire carbine with an awesome, modern appearance. More of an assembly than a build, this project gun has little in common with the stock factory Ruger 10/22.
I present…..Project: Ruger 10/22.
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I started with a standard, run-of-the-mill Ruger 10/22. Nothing special but highly capable. This particular gun was purchased locally for $209.00.
Project Total: $209.00
Next up I settled on a Tactical Solutions 16″ fluted barrel. I chose the Tactical Solutions due to cost as well as overall reputation. I read a few reviews online that were negative, however, by far they were positive. I was not expecting a tremendous gain in accuracy with the barrel as in stock condition the 10/22 does quite well. To complete the project as envisioned the Tactical Solutions barrel fit perfectly. I paid $179.99 on sale at a local Cabela’s. No doubt better pricing can be found elsewhere.
Project Total: $388.99
Right from the start I knew I wanted the Magpul X-Hunter Stock for this project. Having seen and handled it previously it was a must have. I love the way it handles and its ergonomics. Unique with this stock is its compatibility with either the stock barrel or a standard bull barrel. Ordered from Amazon for $126.97.
Project Total: $515.96
Accuracy is the result of numerous specific conditions from cartridge, barrel, wind conditions, temperature, lubrication, trigger, and more. The new Ruger BX-Trigger drops the trigger pull down to around 2.5 pounds and making it extremely crisp. Instant accuracy improvement. Purchased at Cabela’s on sale for $59.99.
Project Total: $575.95
Next up was to install a scope mount atop the Ruger’s receiver. I went with the Tactical Solutions 15 MOA Rail. What makes this rail unique is it actually angles the scope slightly in an upwards direction thus reducing the amount of scope elevation adjustment needed for shooting longer ranges with the .22LR. May not have needed the 15 MOA raise but I have it. Purchased at Cabela’s for $29.99.
Project Total: $605.94
To maximize accuracy I installed a BSA Sweet .22 3-9 x 40mm scope. The BSA comes with different turrets depending on your rimfire ammunition. I have not utilized the turrets but understand the concept. I am pleased with the level of clarity, however, would like to have a higher level of magnification. Possible upgrade in the future. Purchased from Amazon for $69.99.
Project Total: $675.93
Lastly, an extended charging handle was purchased off eBay. I have no idea of the brand. Took a look and found something cool and bought it. Works great. A charging handle isn’t rocket science. The factory one works fine, however, I wanted a more secure grip and add to the look.
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Final Results:
$675 for a Ruger 10/22 is a lot of money and with that level of funding I could have bought a variety of firearms or other supplies. This was a project I wanted to do, so I did it.
So – how accurate is it?
I have yet to test the true capability of this project gun and will update as I get more results. Close to 1″ 3 shot groups at 50 yards so far using CCI Mini-Mags. Every gun I have will shoot better than me and this is no exception. I have shot standard carbines close to 1″ groups at 50 so the increase in accuracy is minimal however it exists.
It has been 100% reliable with no jams, failures to eject, misfires – nothing. The trigger is sweet.
Shooting this gun is a pleasure. It’s highly accurate, lightweight and very compact. Handles like a dream and its ergonomics fits me extremely well.
NOTE: This was a project gun I put together a few years ago. Unfortunately “life happens” and I was forced to sell it. Once I am in a position to do so I have every intention to recreate in a very similar fashion.
Rourke