How to Customize the Ruger 10/22 Rifle

With customization, your Ruger 10/22 can look like this.

The Ruger 10/22 rifle represents one of the best and most reliable ways to enter the world of customizable shooting, as it is an extremely reliable and exciting weapon with affordable customization options. Due to its popularity and the large numbers of this weapon in use today, it is possible to find a large variety of accessories and custom parts online and in discount shooting catalogs. The reliability of the Ruger 10/22 makes used parts and accessories a practical and reliable option, as the gun and its custom parts can stand up to a high amount of wear.

Things You'll Need

• Ruger 10/22 rifle

Instructions

1. Replace the magazine. The easiest and most affordably remodeled part of your weapon is the magazine itself. While the standard Ruger 10/22 magazine holds 10 rounds in a compact circle, you can purchase "banana clip" magazines which range from 10 rounds to 100 rounds. These magazines will stick out from underneath the gun, giving it the aggressive, powerful look of assault rifles and military rifles. It is also possible to customize the magazine release, as the factory Ruger 10/22 release is a recessed button, and many owners prefer a standard trigger release.

2. Add a sighting scope. Even the cheapest scope will completely change the look of your weapon, and with additional customizations, a scope can really increase the power of the overall effect of your rifle. A scope will also radically improve your accuracy and consistency. The higher the quality of the scope, the better it will hold its accuracy during shooting, an especially important consideration if you will be customizing your rifle to fire in bursts or at a faster rate.

3. Replace or modify the barrel. There are many different options in selecting a barrel. You can purchase a heavy, thicker "bull" barrel which will improve accuracy and give a stronger impression, or you can also find shorter barrels for an aggressive look, or longer barrels for more accuracy. It is also possible to purchase different barrel colors or add a barrel shroud around the barrel itself, which is designed to dissipate heat more rapidly, a definite concern if you will be increasing the firing rate and magazine capacity of your Ruger.

4. Remove and replace the stock. While the stock is one of the most variable parts of your weapon, it is also more difficult to modify. The Ruger 10/22 user's manual has detailed instructions for the removal of the factory stock using the front and rear screws. It is possible to purchase many types of stocks, from synthetic pistol grips to wooden bench-rest target stocks.

5. Adjust the firing rate. There are a variety of accessory devices you can purchase to change the Ruger 10/22's rate of fire. One such device is the BMF Activator, which is a hand crank that can fire your rifle at up to 10 rounds per second. Some devices also set up your rifle to fire in three-round bursts.

Tips & Warnings

• Zero in your scope frequently for best results.

• Know your local rules and regulations about magazine size. It some areas it may be illegal to purchase magazines in excess of 10 rounds, and in some areas it may be illegal even to own them.

• It is crucial when modifying a weapon to be familiar with the local, state and federal regulations concerning your modification. If you are having trouble determining the legality of a modification, contact a local gunsmith for help.

References

• Sangamon County Rifle Association: The Versatile Ruger 10-22