RUGER 10/22 SPORTER
Posted May 19, 2023
Ruger 10/22 Sporter: A Comprehensive Guide
The Ruger 10/22 Sporter rifle is an iconic firearm that has seen use both in the field and at the range since its introduction in 1964. First developed by Sturm, Ruger & Co., the Ruger 10/22 is a highly popular .22 caliber semi-automatic rifle that is popular with shooters of all skill levels, from recreational target shooters to younger novice shooters. The design and concept behind the 10/22 has changed very little over the past half-century, but the improvements and modifications that can be made for greater accuracy and performance are nearly endless.
In this guide we will review the features and characteristics that make the 10/22 Sporter an ideal choice for target shooting, competition, and hunting as well as give advice on modifications, ammunition types, and maintenance. We will also provide an in-depth overview of the design of the 10/22 and some of the key accessories used with a 10/22 Sporter.
Design Overview
The Ruger 10/22 is a semi-automatic, blowback-operated rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle. The barrel is 18-22 inches long and the receiver is made from an alluminum alloy. The overall length of the 10/22 is 37-inch and it weighs 5.3 pounds with an empty 10 round magazine. The 10/22 features a 10 round rotary magazine design which aids in accuracy because it keeps the nose of the bullet lower than the magazine lips which reduces nose diving. The 10/22 has an adjustable rear sight which can be moved up and down, and a blade front sight standard.
The 10/22 Sporter is a popular choice for target shooting and competitions because the stock has an ambidextrous design making it easy for both left and right handed shooters to adjust their grip for better accuracy. The steel trigger has an adjustable pull weight of 3 to 5 pounds, making it ideal for target shooting and precision shooting. The stock also incorporates a rubber butt plate and a checkered grip for better handling and comfort. The stock can be further customized with a variety of aftermarket parts and accessories.
Functionality
The Ruger 10/22 is known as a reliable and accurate rifle with very little recoil and low report. It is easy to operate, with a standard operating procedure that consists of chambering a round, aiming, and pulling the trigger. The 10/22 is semi-automatic, so once the trigger is pulled and the round is fired, it automatically cycles the next round into the chamber for firing.
The 10/22 is simple to breakdown and clean, making it an ideal choice for beginner and novice shooters. The action can be easily removed from stock for maintenance and cleaning, and the recoil spring and barrel can be easily removed without tools. Owners of a 10/22 Sporter also benefit from the wide variety of ammunition and accessories available, allowing for more customization to meet specific shooting needs.
Modifications
The Ruger 10/22 Sporter is extremely popular among gun enthusiasts, and as such there are countless modifications and aftermarket parts available to enhance the performance and accuracy of the gun. These include drop-in trigger assemblies which reduce the trigger pull and improve the overall trigger geometry and function, adjustable triggers, stocks, and barrels. The stock can also be modified with the addition of a recoil pad or a competition-style cheek rest.
The 10/22 also has a wide variety of aftermarket accessories designed to improve its accuracy and performance. These include, but are not limited to, upgraded sights, bipods, sling mounts, and muzzle brakes. The stock barrel can also be upgraded by using a pre-threaded aftermarket barrel, which can come in a variety of lengths, as well as barrel fluting for increased air flow.
Ammunition
The Ruger 10/22 Sporter is chambered in .22 Long Rifle and there is a wide variety of ammunition available for this chambering. Standard .22 Long Rifle ammunition is easily found, as is high velocity ammo which offers greater accuracy and increased range. Subsonic ammunition, which is quieter than regular .22LR ammo, is also available and is popular with competition shooters and hunters.
The 10/22 Sporter can also accommodate .22 Long and .22 Short ammunition, both of which offer better accuracy and less recoil than .22lr. Depending on the ammunition, the 10/22 can still reach effective distances with .22 Short and .22 Long rounds, making them ideal for target shooting.
Maintenance
One of the advantages of owning the Ruger 10/22 Sporter is the low maintenance and care that is required to keep it in working condition and enhance its accuracy and performance over time. Regular cleaning and lubrication are recommended to keep the action and barrel free from dirt and grime and to ensure maximum accuracy and reliability. Before cleaning, make sure to remove the magazine and check that the chamber and barrel are free of ammunition and clear from any obstructions.
When cleaning the gun, use a quality gun cleaning kit and quality cleaning products. A bore cleaner is necessary for maintaining the accuracy of the weapon and a quality lubricant is required for ensuring smooth operation and preventing rust and corrosion. It is also important to clean the bolt, magazine, and other small parts to remove any built up dirt and debris.
Conclusion
The Ruger 10/22 Sporter is one of the most iconic firearms on the market today. It is ideal for target shooting, competition, and hunting and is available in a variety of aftermarket parts and accessories for improved performance and accuracy. With its reliable construction, low recoil, and simple to maintain design, the 10/22 Sporter is a great choice for shooters of all levels. The wide variety of ammunition and aftermarket parts available for this rifle makes it even more attractive for novice and experienced shooters alike.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Rugged and reliable design: The Ruger 10/22 Sporter rifle is a consistent performer with a proven history of reliable operation. It features a tough, all-weather construction and rugged rotating action that has been proven to stand the test of time.
- Excellent accuracy: The 10/22 Sporter is known for its accuracy and the ability to consistently hit targets at a distance. This is made possible by its tight tolerances and the use of quality components.
- Wide range of customization options: The Ruger 10/22 Sporter is highly customizable, allowing users to tailor the rifle to their own individual preferences. A wide selection of aftermarket components and accessories can be added to make it truly unique.
- Lightweight and ergonomic: At just under five pounds, theRuger 10/22 Sporter is an ideal choice for hunters and target shooters looking for a lightweight rifle. The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to carry and shoot.
Cons:
- Limited options for ammo: The Ruger 10/22 Sporter is designed for .22 Long Rifle ammo only, so the selection of available ammunition can be limited. This means users may not be able to find the exact ammo they’re looking for.
- Unreliable aftermarket triggers: Aftermarket triggers tend to be unreliable on the Ruger 10/22 Sporter, with reports of misfiring and failing safeties. This has been an issue for many users and may be something to keep in mind before investing in aftermarket triggers.
- Cost: While the Ruger 10/22 Sporter is a good value, it is still on the expensive side compared to other .22 rifles. This may be a deal-breaker for budget-minded shooters looking for a reliable firearm.
Who Should Buy
Who Should Buy RUGER 10/22 SPORTER:
People who are looking for a reliable and affordable semi-automatic hunting rifle that's suitable for a variety of game should consider the RUGER 10/22 Sporter. It's a great entry-level gun and is favored by many backyard target shooters and hunters alike.
Who Shouldn't Buy RUGER 10/22 SPORTER:
Those who are looking for a more advanced gun or a higher caliber rifle should look elsewhere. The 10/22 Sporter is limited in firepower and features, making it more suitable for novice shooters or smaller game. Additionally, those who don't have an adequate budget may want to opt for a more cost-effective option.
Comparisons
| Product | Barrel Length | Overall Length | Weight | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RUGER 10/22 SPORTER | 18.5" | 37" | 5 lbs. | 10 rounds |
| Remington RM4 Tactical | 20” | 38” | 5.5 lbs. | 30 rounds |
| Marlin XT-22 | 22” | 38.5” | 5 lbs. | 10 rounds |
| Savage A22 Magnum | 22” | 38.5” | 5 lbs. | 10 rounds |
Features / Specs
• Type: Autoloading rifle
• Calibre: .22 LR
• Action: Blowback, semi-automatic
• Capacity: 10 or 25 round
• Barrel Material: Carbon Steel
• Receiver Material: Alloy Steel
• Stock: Hardwood sporter
• Length: 37.5"
• Weight: 4.5 lbs (unloaded)
Popular Accessories
BARREL
- Scope
- Magazine
- High-Quality Sling
- Flashlight or Laser Sight
- Bipod
- Hammer Bushing
- Barrel Weight
- Muzzle Brake
- Barrel Band
- Trigger Lock
Accuracy
The Ruger 10/22 Sporter is an incredibly accurate firearm. Its blowback action and ten-round magazine ensure that it’s reliable and easy to handle. It’s made of durable construction, from stainless steel and aircraft grade aluminum. Its 18.5-inch barrel is well-built and provides plenty of accuracy at close to medium distances. This gun is perfect for shooting competition and recreational activities. Its adjustable rear sight allows for precision aiming and you can add a scope for more accuracy. On average, shooting grouped shots at 50 yards using a quality scope, the 10/22 Sporter can provide 1-inch groups or even smaller in experienced hands.
