Best Ruger 10/22 Trigger Upgrades for Faster Split Times & Smoother Pulls

The Ruger 10/22 ranks among the most beloved rimfire rifles ever created, with millions sold since its 1964 debut. Despite its massive popularity, one component often leaves owners wanting more - the factory trigger. A trigger upgrade represents the most impactful modification you can make to transform your shooting experience. Better triggers mean improved accuracy, faster follow-up shots, and a much more enjoyable time at the range.

We've gathered data on four of the most popular trigger upgrades available today. Each was evaluated based on pull weight, split times, travel characteristics, and overall feel. 

By the end of this article, you'll know exactly which trigger matches your shooting style and budget. Ready to make your 10/22 perform like never before?

Why Upgrade Your Ruger 10/22 Trigger?

Most standard 10/22 factory triggers measure 5.5 to 7 pounds, depending on the production batch and wear—still heavier than ideal for precise rimfire shooting. Beyond just weight, factory triggers typically feel gritty, inconsistent, and have excessive travel before the break point. These limitations can frustrate even the most patient marksman. 

Upgrading brings immediate  ff target. While improved triggers boost performance, users must take care with lighter pulls to avoid unintentional discharges. . Second, crisper breaks and shorter reset distances allow for noticeably faster follow-up shots. Third, the overall shooting experience becomes more enjoyable - no more fighting against a heavy, rough trigger.

Most 10/22 trigger upgrades come as complete drop-in units that require minimal technical knowledge to install. Some kits need basic disassembly of the factory trigger group but include detailed instructions. Even beginners can typically complete these upgrades in under an hour with basic tools.

How We Tested These Triggers

Each trigger was reviewed using manufacturer specifications and credible user data. We also checked the pull weight figures referenced from reputable sources to provide realistic expectations. Split times were researched and compared across trusted reviews and community feedback. These times reflect results from experienced shooters; actual performance may vary by user. This is done to illustrate how each option supports faster follow-up shots, which is a key factor for competitive shooters. 

The feel assessment relied on our team’s combined experience in military and competitive shooting, along with in-depth analysis of credible reports, to discuss aspects like pre-travel, post-travel, and reset quality. These subjective elements play a huge role in trigger satisfaction but can't be defined by numbers alone.

All information was cross-checked through multiple sources and carefully analyzed to make sure it shows realistic performance under typical use.

The Top 4 Ruger 10/22 Trigger Upgrades

Volquartsen Ruger 10/22 TG2000

The Volquartsen TG2000 represents the gold standard in 10/22 trigger technology. Crafted from solid aluminum rather than plastic, it immediately communicates quality the moment you handle it. The precision engineering inside delivers an incredibly light, consistent trigger pull that transforms a basic 10/22 into a tack-driving competition machine.

Pull weight is exceptionally consistent, typically breaking around 1 lb 13 oz with minimal variance. . Newer TG2000s offer external post-travel adjustment, but verify the product version if that feature is important to you. The post-travel adjustment screw sits accessible from the outside, allowing fine-tuning without disassembly. For those wanting to adjust pre-travel, you'll need about 45 minutes to take apart the unit, but the results create a truly custom feel with virtually no movement before or after the break point.

Price: $266

Features

• Aluminum trigger housing construction
• Adjustable pre-travel and post-travel
• Factory-set at 1 pound 13 ounces pull weight
• Auto bolt release function included
• Crisp, glass-rod break feeling

Pros

• Lightest pull weight of all options tested
• Premium materials and construction
• Highly adjustable for personal preference
• Includes useful auto bolt release feature
• No discernible pre/post travel after adjustment

Cons

• Costs about the same as a new 10/22 rifle
• Reset feel is somewhat weak compared to others
• Pre-travel adjustment requires complete disassembly
• While not the fastest tested, the TG2000’s consistency and feel still enable high-speed shooting performance. 

Tandemkross Ultimate 10/22 Trigger Kit

The Tandemkross Ultimate Trigger Kit, developed in partnership with Brimstone Gunsmithing, takes a different approach than complete drop-in units. Instead of replacing the entire trigger housing, this kit upgrades the critical components inside your existing housing - including the trigger shoe, sear, pins, and hardware.

Most users report pull weights around 2 lb 14 oz after installation, depending on tuning and spring tolerances.. The break is clean and predictable and so it is excellent for precise target work. The post-travel can be adjusted to a minimum, creating a short, efficient trigger stroke ideal for accuracy-focused applications.

Price: $135

Features

• Upgraded trigger shoe, sear, pin, and hardware
• Works with your existing trigger housing
• Adjustable post-travel
• Clean break with minimal creep
• Crisp, positive reset

Pros

• Mid-range price point offers good value
• Crisper break than factory BX trigger
• Keeps your original housing (cost-effective)
• Excellent for precision shooting applications
• Good build quality from respected manufacturer

Cons

• Requires partial disassembly of factory trigger
• Installation takes about 30 minutes and basic mechanical skills
• Split time averaged 0.185 seconds (slowest of tested options)
• Not true "drop-in" like complete trigger units

Timney Calvin Elite 10/22 Trigger

The Timney Calvin Elite trigger brings exceptional adjustability to the 10/22 platform. Created by Timney's head trigger designer (given carte blanche to create the best possible trigger), it shows in every aspect of the design. The trigger arrives with almost no pre-travel and minimal post-travel, creating an immediate, responsive feel.

What truly sets the Calvin Elite apart is its unmatched adjustability. You can modify both the horizontal and vertical position of the trigger shoe to match your finger placement perfectly. With a consistent 2 pound 6 ounce pull weight and the strongest reset feel of all tested options, it delivers competition-grade performance. The glass-rod break - that crisp, sudden release with zero creep - creates instant shot feedback.

Price: $339

Features

• Adjustable trigger position (horizontal and vertical)
• Three additional trigger shoe designs included
• Almost zero pre-travel and minimal post-travel
• Strong, tactile reset
• Consistent 2 pound 6 ounce pull weight

Pros

• Most adjustable trigger position of all options
• Glass-rod break with no creep
• Includes multiple trigger shoe options for different finger preferences
• Pronounced reset helps with rapid fire strings
• Split time of 0.155 seconds is impressive

Cons

• High price point
• Adjustment screws require proper torquing and Loctite
• The extended magazine release may interfere with some pistol grip stock designs, particularly those with narrow trigger guard clearance. 
• Requires careful installation to maintain adjustments

Ruger BX Trigger

The Ruger BX Trigger offers the most affordable path to a better 10/22 shooting experience. As a factory-made upgrade from Ruger themselves, it drops into any standard 10/22 in minutes with zero modification needed. The difference from the stock trigger is immediately apparent - reducing pull weight from a heavy 6+ pounds down to a much more manageable 2 pounds 4 ounces.

Though the feel remains slightly spongy compared to premium options, the BX delivered the fastest split times in as per our report at 0.136 seconds. This outperformed even triggers costing four times as much. For most recreational shooting and small game hunting, this improvement hits the sweet spot of performance versus cost. The minimal pre-travel combined with a positive reset creates a trigger that responds quickly to rapid fire strings.

Price: $69

Features

• Complete drop-in trigger housing
• Factory-set 2 pound 4 ounce pull weight
• Minimal pre-travel design
• Consistent break point
• Positive reset with audible click

Pros

• Most affordable option by far
• Typical pull weight ranges from 2 lb 4 oz to 2 lb 8 oz. The 0.136-second split time reflects fast users under controlled conditions. 
• True drop-in design requires no gunsmithing
• Cuts pull weight by more than 60% from stock
• Made by Ruger for guaranteed fit

Cons

• Some early units had minor housing play, though recent models show tighter construction. 
• More post-travel than premium options
• Slightly spongy feel compared to high-end triggers
• Basic design without adjustment options

Comparison Table

Trigger	Price	Pull Weight	Split Time	Installation	Best For
Volquartsen TG2000	$266	1 lb 13 oz	0.163 sec	Drop-in	Premium feel, lightest pull
Tandemkross Kit	$135	2 lb 14 oz	0.185 sec	Moderate	Precision, value
Timney Calvin Elite	$210–$270	2 lb 6 oz	0.155 sec	Drop-in	Adjustability
Ruger BX	$69	2 lb 4 oz	0.136 sec	Easy	Budget, speed

A trigger upgrade can dramatically improve the feel and accuracy of your Ruger 10/22, but it’s far from the only worthwhile modification. From stocks to barrels, there are plenty of ways to tailor the rifle to your needs. For a complete breakdown, see our guide on the top Ruger 10/22 upgrades

Final Recommendations

Best Budget Option: Ruger BX Trigger

At just $69, the BX delivers the fastest split times and a massive improvement over stock. For casual plinking and small game hunting, this trigger hits the sweet spot of performance and value. It's also the easiest to install - perfect for those new to gun modifications.

Best Mid-Range Option: Tandemkross Ultimate Kit

If you're comfortable with basic disassembly, the Tandemkross kit at $135 provides a crisp, clean break that enhances precision shooting without breaking the bank. Its adjustable post-travel lets you fine-tune the feel to your preferences.

Best for Custom Fit: Timney Calvin Elite

When you want a truly custom feel, the Calvin Elite's adjustable position and interchangeable shoes create a trigger that fits your hand perfectly. The glass-rod break and strong reset make it ideal for both precision and speed.

Best Premium Experience: Volquartsen TG2000

For those seeking the absolute best, the TG2000 delivers competition-grade performance with its featherlight 1 pound 13 ounce pull and fully adjustable travel. The all-aluminum construction and precise machining justify the higher price for serious marksmen.

Of course, even the best trigger upgrade won’t reach its full potential without quality ammunition. Whether you’re chasing tight groups on paper, hunting small game, or just plinking for fun, pairing your 10/22 with the right ammo matters. Check out our guide to the best .22 LR rimfire ammo for the top picks across accuracy, hunting, and everyday shooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How difficult is it to install these 10/22 trigger upgrades?

The Ruger BX and Volquartsen TG2000 are true drop-in units requiring about 10 minutes to install. The Timney Calvin Elite also drops in but needs proper torquing and Loctite on adjustment screws. The Tandemkross kit requires partial disassembly of your factory trigger group, taking about 30 minutes with basic tools.

2. Will these triggers make my 10/22 less safe?

No. All these triggers maintain proper sear engagement and include the standard safety mechanisms. Lighter doesn't mean less safe when properly engineered. Always follow proper firearm safety practices regardless of trigger weight.

3. Can I adjust the pull weight on these triggers?

The Volquartsen and Timney triggers have some adjustment capability but require careful tuning. The Ruger BX and basic Tandemkross kit don't offer pull weight adjustments. For most users, the factory-set weights provide the right balance of lightness and safety.

4. What's more important - a light trigger or a crisp break?

It depends on your needs. For precision shooting, a crisp break with no creep matters more than absolute weight. For speed shooting, a lightweight with short reset helps most. The best triggers, like the Volquartsen, offer both characteristics.

5. Are these triggers legal for competition use?

Yes, all these triggers maintain proper sear engagement and safety functions, For this reason it makes them legal for most rimfire competitions. Always check specific match rules, as some may have minimum pull weight requirements. Always check specific match rules—some events (like CMP or certain junior divisions) may have minimum pull weights or require factory components.

6. Why are my split times slower than what's mentioned in the article?

Split times depend on many factors beyond just the trigger - your grip, stance, practice level, and familiarity with the firearm all matter. The times mentioned represent what experienced users achieved after becoming familiar with each trigger. Your times will improve with practice. Dry-fire drills and reset training help shorten splits over time, especially with enhanced reset feedback like the Timney or BX.