The Ruger 10/22 is one of the most popular 22 LR rifles in America. First introduced in 1964, this classic rimfire rifle is renowned for its reliability, accuracy, and customization options. For over 50 years, the 10/22 has been a versatile platform used by everyone from beginner plinkers to seasoned competitive shooters. 

Upgrading a 10/22 allows you to enhance the rifle’s aesthetics and performance to match your exact needs and preferences. With the wide variety of stocks, triggers, barrels, and accessories on the market, you can transform your basic 10/22 into a specialized precision, tactical, or competition rifle.

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We have many years of experience in analyzing and reviewing firearms. Our insights are based on extensive research, years spent in the firearms industry, and firsthand knowledge gained through military service, competitive shooting, and working in gun shops. 

We combine expertise with detailed analysis and user feedback to provide trustworthy recommendations.

The upgrades showcased here are evaluated through comprehensive research and analysis. We assess criteria like accuracy, reliability, ergonomics, and value for money based on manufacturer specifications, user reviews, and expert opinions. 

Our suggestions are entirely unbiased and focused on providing the best information to enhance your shooting experience.

Ruger 10/22 Background

History of the Ruger 10/22

The 10/22 was released in 1964 as Ruger’s first 22 LR rifle. Initially just offered with a carbine barrel, Ruger soon added various barrel lengths and configurations. Over 18 million 10/22s have been sold since its introduction, making it the best-selling rimfire rifle in history. 

The 10/22 utilizes a proven blowback action with hammer-forged barrels. Its rotary magazines hold up to 10 rounds, but aftermarket options are available, including 25-round magazines and drum magazines that hold up to 70 rounds.. The rifle features fully adjustable sights and a combination scope base adapter for adding optics. 

Popularity Reasons

Several key factors fuel the 10/22’s ongoing popularity:

• Affordable – With an MSRP around $300, the 10/22 is an economical way to get into rimfires.

• Reliable – The 10/22 is known for its flawless functioning right out of the box.

• Accurate – It can achieve sub-MOA groups with quality ammunition.  

• Customizable – Huge aftermarket support allows extensive modifications.

• Versatile – Available in multiple configurations, from precision targets to tactical carbine models.

For new shooters, it’s a perfect training tool. Seasoned marksmen appreciate the 10/22 as a high-quality rimfire for plinking, hunting, or competition.

Best 10/22 Stocks

Switching out the factory Ruger plastic or wood stock should be one of your first upgrades. The right aftermarket stock improves the feel and look of your 10/22 while letting you customize features like length of pull. Stocks are available to match any style, from hunting rigs to competition race guns.

Hogue Rubber Overmolded Stock

For an affordable stock that feels great, choose the Overmolded model from Hogue. Hogue coats their stocks with textured rubber that prevents slipping and enhances comfort.

The rubber also deadens vibrations for smoother shooting. Stocks sized for both standard and takedown versions of the 10/22 are available, including the Ruger 10-22 Takedown Thumbhole Standard Barrel Flat Dark Earth Rubber OverMolded Stock for those looking for a specific takedown model. . The grippy rubber withstands weather and abuse, making this a perfect upgrade for rugged use in the field.

At just $119.95, it’s easy to justify swapping the plain Jane factory stock for a Hogue.

Magpul Hunter X-22 Chassis

Serious marksmen turn to Magpul’s Hunter X-22 chassis stock to get the most from their 10/22s. This specialized stock is fully adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune comb height and length of pull to fit you perfectly.

Generous rubberized panels on the grip and fore-end give you a rock-solid hold. M-LOK attachment points around the chassis let you bolt on accessory rails and other add-ons like flush cup sling mounts.

The Hunter X-22 works with both bull and standard profile barrels as well. Its built-in bottom rail also accepts bipods for stable shooting. If you’re looking for a true precision stock to maximize your accuracy, the Magpul Hunter X-22 is arguably the gold standard.

Fab Defense Folding M4 Stock 

Fab Defense is known for ultralight tactical stocks built to survive combat conditions. Their R10/22 stock brings a high-speed look to the 10/22, with an adjustable M4 profile stock. Constructed from T6 aircraft aluminum, it can stand up to rigorous use.

The stock folds sideways to meet minimum length requirements for storage and transport, while still allowing rapid shoulder mounting. Cheek riser height and length of pull are both adjustable via click detents. Like the Magpul, Fab Defense incorporates M-LOK slots to accept rail segments and other modern accessories.

For those wanting to add modular tactical flair to their 10/22, it’s a superb choice.

Volquartsen Laminated Thumbhole Stock

Volquartsen needs no introduction to 10/22 fans. When it comes to aftermarket upgrades, they are the gold standard. Their gorgeous walnut Thumbhole Silhouette stock imparts timeless class. 

Hand-laid fibers create an intricate laminate pattern that is sure to draw compliments on the range. In addition to beauty, the dense wood stock practically eliminates vibrations for a steadier aim. An elevated Monte Carlo comb and integrated thumb shelf promote perfect head positioning behind optics.

Small details like a grippy cobblestone texture and subtle laser engraving complete the premium feel. It’s pricey but makes even a base model 10/22 feel like a bespoke rimfire.  

High Tower Armory 10/22 Bullpup Chassis 

Ever wished your 10/22 had a futuristic bullpup configuration? The High Tower Armory can make that dream a reality. Their 10/22 bullpup chassis completely transforms the classic rifle into a modern tactical machine.

Precision machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, the HTA chassis houses the action in a bullpup layout with the magazine behind the grip. Controls like the safety and mag release are intuitively positioned to mimic AR ergonomics.

Despite the radical format change, reliability remains excellent. This slick chassis even allows using your existing barrel. So if you love the compact bullpup form factor, the HTA 10/22 chassis delivers it in rimfire form at an affordable price.

Best 10/22 Triggers

A crisp, light trigger pull yields better precision on target. These drop-in trigger upgrades greatly enhance the factory unit.

Ruger BX Trigger 

Ruger’s own BX trigger is arguably the best value upgrade for the 10/22. The curved trigger shoe has a smooth profile that feels great. Pull weight ranges from 2.5-3 pounds for a clean break with minimal creep. 

For just $90, the BX trigger is a foolproof way to refine your 10/22 trigger without breaking the bank.

Volquartsen Ruger 10/22 TG2000

At the premium end, Volquartsen’s TG2000 trigger is unmatched. Fully adjustable pull weight goes down to just 8 ounces. Overtravel is also adjustable for a customized trigger feel. 

The TG2000 has a straight trigger shoe and comes with an extended mag release and auto bolt release. If budget is no concern, this $250 trigger offers incredible refinement.

Best 10/22 Sights & Scopes

Upgrading the sights or optics opens up the 10/22’s accuracy potential. Here are the top options for enhancing precision. 

Tech Sights

Tech Sights is a great option for improved iron sight accuracy. They replace the factory sights with a larger rear peep and front post in a classic target configuration. 

Windage and elevation are click adjustable for fine tuning. Tech Sights are easy to install and allow surprisingly tight groups at 50+ yards with practice. Costing around $90, they’re also very affordable.

UTG 10/22 Picatinny Rail 

Adding an optic typically requires installing a Picatinny rail to mount scopes and sights. This model by UTG secures to the 10/22 factory dovetail mounts for a rock-solid foundation.

Just $20 buys you years of reliable service. With a rail installed, the possibilities for optics expand exponentially.

Sig Sauer Romeo5 Red Dot

A low-magnification red dot like the Romeo5 is ideal for the 10/22’s typical uses. The 2 MOA dot promotes fast target acquisition while providing enough precision for rimfire ranges. 

The Romeo5 has shake-awake motion activation and 50,000 hours of battery life. Fully waterproof and fogproof, it’s built for the abuse rimfire rifles often see in the field. 

Its combination of durability, features, and price make the Romeo5 our top red dot recommendation.

Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scope

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 is a great affordable scope option for 10/22 fans who like plinking or hunting. This scope can zoom between 2-7 times magnification, perfect for typical rimfire shooting distances. The 32 mm front lens piece provides super clear and bright viewing, which you need for different shooting situations. The scope has a BDC reticle that makes longer distance accurate shooting more doable since it accounts for the bullet drop.

The Vortex Crossfire II is built sturdy with aircraft-grade aluminum and special lens coatings that allow more light transmission and less glare. So it's waterproof, fog-proof and reliable in all weather conditions. The generous eye relief and forgiving eye box help you quickly and comfortably find your target, even during long shooting sessions. 

Best 10/22 Accessories

These clever add-ons by Tandemkross make your 10/22 smoother and more ergonomic.

Tandemkross Extended Mag Release

The tiny factory magazine release is notoriously difficult to operate under stress. Tandemkross solves this with their oversize extended paddle release. 

The wide paddle sticks out prominently, making it easy to activate with your thumb or finger. This mod helps immensely when speed matters, such as in competitions. 

The extended release also works when wearing gloves. For just $50, it can shave precious seconds off your reload time.

Tandemkross Dual Charge Handles

Working the charging handle is essential on any semi-auto, so why not upgrade yours? Tandemkross machined aluminum handles feature grooved, over-molded polymer grips. 

This prevents painful cold burns. They also offer the option of installing a second charging handle for left-handed manipulation.

The action cycles are smoother thanks to these ergonomic handles. Models with a skeletonized look also give your 10/22 a serious race gun aesthetic.

Tandemkross Game Changer Muzzle Device 

Rimfire recoil is generally negligible. But even a .22 LR will exhibit some muzzle rise, throwing follow-up shots off target. 

Adding a compensator counteracts that upward motion, keeping you on target. Tandemkross designed their Gamechanger specifically for the 10/22 system. 

Internal baffles redirect combustion upward through angled side ports. 1/2-28 threads also allow you to install a suppressor later. While not mandatory, a simple compensator can yield faster split times from your upgraded 10/22.

Best 10/22 Internal Upgrades

These inexpensive internal upgrades transform how your 10/22 operates. While installing them requires only basic mechanical skills, if you are not comfortable with doing these upgrades yourself, it is advisable to use a gunsmith.

Tandemkross Guardian Bolt Release

The factory 10/22 lacks an automatic bolt release. You must manually cycle the charging handle to chamber another round after reloading. 

The Tandemkross Guardian Bolt Release solves this annoyance. It automatically trips the bolt forward when pulled back on a closed bolt. This accelerates reloads, allowing faster follow up shots. 

The difference an automatic bolt release makes is very noticeable. Installation takes just minutes, and an extra power hammer spring is provided to ensure reliable function.

Tandemkross Eagle's Talon Extractor  

Rimfire ammo quality has high variability. Light primer strikes and case dimensional issues are common. Ensuring positive extraction is key for reliability. 

The Eagle's Talon oversized extractor by Tandemkross grips cases tighter. Its reshaped claw grabs further up the case rim for more authority. The extractor has extended geometry to help counteract rim lock jams.

Replacing the factory extractor takes seconds and costs just $15. It's cheap insurance against extraction malfunctions.

Volquartsen Bolt Tune-Up Kit

This tune-up kit from Volquartsen upgrades both the extractor and firing pin. The extractor uses heavier spring tension and deeper case engagement for very positive extraction.  

This combines with an enhanced firing pin for more powerful primer ignition. The firing pin has a stepped face and harder steel construction to pierce primers decisively.

Chamfered leading edges prevent gas cuts in the bolt channel, too. For around $40, this affordable kit meaningfully boosts ignition and extraction dependability. Your 10/22 will function flawlessly with this preventative maintenance combo installed.

Best 10/22 Barrels  

Upgrading to a high-end aftermarket barrel can dramatically improve your 10/22 accuracy. Premium barrels are crafted to precise tolerances and undergo additional treatments to enhance precision. With match ammunition, these barrels squeeze every bit of performance from the 22 LR cartridge.

E.R. Shaw Barrels

E.R. Shaw has built a reputation for accurate barrels across many calibers, including rimfire. Their 10/22 barrels use heavy target contours to reduce whip and vibration. This added mass steadies the barrel for repeatable precision. The chambers are also treated to prolong case life with extensive shooting. 

E.R. Shaw barrels come in both standard and bull profile configurations. You can choose between stainless steel or blued steel finishes. Expect match grade accuracy that rivals barrels costing much more.

Volquartsen Carbon Fiber Barrel 

This Volquartsen barrel takes advantage of carbon fiber’s incredible stiffness-to-weight ratio. It sandwiches an ultra-precise rifled bore between carbon fiber sleeves. The resulting barrel has almost zero whips for unbelievable accuracy despite weighing just 24 ounces. 

Carbon fiber also negates the need for heavy target contours to stabilize barrels. This keeps handling quick and lively. As you would expect from Volquartsen, fit and finish are impeccable. While expensive, it’s half the weight of bull barrels and far more rigid.

Faxon Firearms Pencil Barrels

Faxon Firearms crafts lightweight, rigid 10/22 barrels from specialized gun barrel steel. Despite slim pencil contours, these barrels deliver great accuracy thanks to Faxon’s proprietary stress-relieving. Integrated tensioning optimizes harmonic stabilization downrange.

These hand-lapped barrels can be had with either standard or threaded slim muzzles. Faxon also offers eye-catching exterior finishes like gold titanium nitride (TiN). For those wanting to shed weight or add styling accents, Faxon’s 10/22 pencil barrels check all the boxes.

Best Miscellaneous 10/22 Upgrades

These clever accessories expand your 10/22's capabilities in unexpected ways. 

Tandemkross Double Kross Magazine

In restrictive states limiting magazine capacity, the Double Kross increases round count to 40 shots. This Tandemkross magazine insert slips into factory 10-round rotary magazines. 

It has two staggered rows of 20 rounds, taking advantage of the rotary housing’s extra capacity. While not quite as reliable as standard mags, it’s an innovative workaround when you need more ammo. It's important to adhere to local capacity laws; while these modifications are legal in non-restrictive states, they contravene laws in states with strict magazine capacity restrictions.

Ruger BX-25 Magazines  

For maximum firepower, Ruger’s own BX-25 magazines are the gold standard. These polymer rotary magazines hold an impressive 25 LR rounds in a reliable, dirt resistant package. 

Whether you’re ripping through thousands of rounds at the range or need to feed a day-long squirrel hunt, BX-25 mags have you covered without breaking the bank.

Banish 22 Suppressor 

Hearing protection is crucial, making suppressors very popular for recreational shooting. We love the Banish 22 from Silencer Central – it’s ultra-lightweight at just 5 ounces. 

The 1/2-28 threads work perfectly with the 10/22. Best of all, Silencer Central makes the NFA buying process painless by handling all the paperwork remotely. 

The Banish 22 earns its name by making standard velocity 22 LR rounds practically Hollywood quiet. Your ears and neighbors will thank you! However, it's important to note that in some states, owning a suppressor is illegal, and compliance with local laws is essential.

Final Thoughts  

Upgrading a 10/22 beyond stock form has been a rite of passage for generations of American shooters. 

The wide range of modifications allows you to tailor your rifle to your exact needs and budget. Even basic upgrades like an automatic bolt release and enhanced extractor transform how the gun handles.

Opting for a high-end barrel and trigger kit can push the diminutive 22 LR round to unexpected accuracy heights. The deep well of stock, chassis, and accessory options let you constantly reinvent the look and feel of your rifle. 

If you’re on the fence about tinkering with your 10/22, I hope this guide has shown the incredible potential these guns possess. As iconic as the rifle itself is, the 10/22’s real superpower is its near-infinite customizability.

FAQs

What are some basic upgrades for a 10/22?

Some easy and affordable upgrades for a 10/22 include swapping the stock, adding a red dot sight or scope, installing improved iron sights like Tech Sights, and replacing internal parts like the extractor and bolt release.

What upgrade makes the 10/22 more accurate?

Replacing the factory barrel with an aftermarket match-grade barrel from makers like E.R. Shaw, Volquartsen, or Faxon Firearms can significantly improve 10/22 accuracy. Upgrading the trigger also helps precision.

Can you put a suppressor on a 10/22?

Yes, rimfire suppressors like the SilencerCo Sparrow 22 or Rugged Oculus 22 mount directly to a 10/22 barrel. You’ll need an extended takedown version with a threaded muzzle to attach a suppressor.

What is the best stock for a 10/22?

The Magpul Hunter X-22 is arguably the best aftermarket stock for Ruger 10/22 rifles. It’s fully adjustable, compatible with all configurations, has M-LOK for accessories, and provides stability for excellent accuracy.

What is the best trigger upgrade for a 10/22?

The BX Trigger is Ruger’s own drop-in trigger assembly for the 10/22. It offers a smooth 2.5-3 pound pull and clean break. For competition-grade performance, the Volquartsen TG2000 trigger is unmatched.

Does the 10/22 have an automatic bolt release?

No, the factory 10/22 uses a manual bolt release. You cycle by pulling back the charging handle. Upgrading to an automatic bolt release like the Tandemkross Guardian allows the bolt to snap forward when released.

Can you put a 25-round magazine in a 10/22?

Yes. Ruger and aftermarket companies make extended 25-round rotary magazines for the 10/22, such as the Ruger BX-25. These are very reliable and perfect for high-volume range sessions.