RUGER 10/22 TAKEDOWN LITE
Posted May 19, 2023
As a life-long gun enthusiast, I am always eager to evaluate any products that enter into the market pertaining to my hobby, and the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite is no exception. Roughly two years ago, Ruger introduced this rifle onto the market, and it has proven to be a formidable product offering that does a great job of bringing the ruggedness and reliability of the popular Ruger 10/22 platform together with the much-desired convenience and ease of a takedown feature. After spending some time with the 10/22 Takedown Lite, I can confidently say that I consider this rifle to be a must-have product for any novice or experienced firearms hobbyists looking for a reliable and affordable rifle which can easily be stored, transported, and/or recognized in the field.
When discussing the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite, it's important to consider the history behind the renowned Ruger 10/22 line of rifles. Designed in 1964 by none other than firearms genius Bill Ruger himself, the Ruger 10/22 (also known as the little brother to the original Ruger Mini-14) has become an iconic platform among both novice and avid gun enthusiasts. Known for its reliable action and robust design, the original 10/22 has become a staple workhorse among hunting, target shooting, and survival circles. It's no surprise then that customers of all levels were eager to welcome the Takedown Lite version of the Ruger 10/22 when it first debuted in 2019.
When evaluating the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite, the first aspect to consider is its overall appearance and construction. As with the original 10/22 platform, the Takedown Lite utilizes a high-grade polymer stock which is mated to an anodized aluminum upper and lower. The result is a light yet sturdy platform which is as appropriate for fieldwork as it is for aesthetic purposes. The Takedown Lite also features a series of brightly colored accents and a receiver style which is reminiscent of the original 10/22 in terms of styling. All in all, the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite is definitely aesthetically pleasing and certainly displays the classic Ruger look and feel.
The machining of the 10/22 Takedown Lite is just as impressive as its outward appearance. With an improved match-grade barrel and a crisp trigger set up, this rifle boasts a level of precision which can rival many of its peers. Furthermore, the metal parts of the Takedown Lite are very robust and capable of lasting through the rigors of fieldwork without fail. I personally have found this rifle to be extremely reliable, having used it during several extended backcountry trips with little to no signs of wear or mechanical failure. Overall, the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite certainly receives good marks for its robust construction and machining.
The premium components of the 10/22 Takedown Lite also extend to its action and cyclic rate. The gun feels smooth and positive in the hand, with a relatively fast cyclic rate and the ability to rapidly follow up shots without fail. While it is not as fast as some of the more advanced semi-automatic rifles on the market, the 10/22 Takedown Lite certainly gets the job done and makes for a great all-around rifle for a variety of shooting sports. I also found the rifle's gas blow-back system to be quite reliable, probably due to the improved gas system of the gun which helps to significantly reduce the amount of gas escaping during firing.
The overall performance of the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite is very impressive. With the improved match-grade barrel and the improved gas system, this rifle performs great for both longer range shooting and close-up fieldwork. I’ve found this rifle to be especially well-suited for target shooting, as the improved accuracy achieved with the improved barrel and gas system is very impressive. Furthermore, the trigger pull is firm and consistent, making it quite easy to maintain accuracy during followup shots. All in all, I’ve been very pleased with the performance of this rifle.
One of the key features of the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite is its ease of takedown capability. This feature is made possible through the inclusion of a quick-release takedown latch which can be used to separate the body of the rifle from the stock. This allows the rifle to be quickly and easily broken down into two separate pieces, perfect for field use or storage in tight spaces. Furthermore, the rifle may be quickly reassembled with the use of the same latch. This makes the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite perfect for use in the field or for storage.
Overall, I have been very pleased with my experience with the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite. Its robust construction, reliable action, and improved accuracy make it a great option for both novice and experienced firearms hobbyists. Its convenient takedown feature also makes it an ideal choice for transportation and storage. All in all, I would definitely recommend this rifle to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable option for the field or the range.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and Easy to Carry- The Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite weighs only 4.6 lbs, making it very easy to carry.
- Easy to Set Up and Operate- The takedown design makes assembly and disassembly of the rifle quick and easy.
- Quick Change Barrel- Switch between different barrel lengths quickly and easily to best suit your shooting needs.
- Versatile- The firearm can be used for both short and long-range shooting.
- Durable- The 10/22 Takedown Lite is constructed using high-grade aluminum alloy, making it exceptionally durable.
Cons:
- Expensive- The Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite tends to be more expensive than other models of the same caliber.
- Limited Customizability- The design limitations of the takedown design make it difficult for individuals to customize the rifle.
- Limited Ammo Capacity- The rifle only holds 10 rounds in its magazine, limiting ammo choices for certain shooting scenarios.
Who Should Buy
The Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite is an ideal rifle for anyone looking for a lightweight and compact hunting rifle. It's perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and hunting.
This rifle is well suited for shooters of all experience levels, from novice to experienced. It is easy to operate, reliable, and accurate. Its takedown feature allows users to quickly break it down into two separate pieces, making it easy to transport and store.
People who should buy the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite include those who desire a lightweight and compact rifle that can perform at a high level. This is also a great option for those who are looking for an accurate rifle for hunting or target shooting.
On the other hand, people who shouldn't buy the Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite include those who are looking for a traditional styled rifle or who desire more power and range. This rifle is not best suited for long-range target shooting or big game hunting.
Comparisons
| Product | Weight | Barrel Length | Action Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| RUGER 10/22 TAKEDOWN LITE | 4.6 lbs | 16.12" | Semi-Automatic |
| Taurus M62 CCO | 5.6 lbs | 16.2" | Semi-Automatic |
| H&R Topper Jr Model 88 | 5.5 lbs | 18.25" | Break Open |
| Remington Model 597 | 5.5 lbs | 18" | Semi-Automatic |
| Marlin XT-22RZ | 6 lbs | 22" | Bolt-Action |
Features / Specs
• Material: Alloy Steel
• Barrel length: 16.12”
• Stock: Magpul Backpacker
• Overall Length: 34”
• Weight: 4.5lbs
• Thread Pattern: 1/2"-28
• Action: Semi-Auto .22LR
• Capacity: 10+1 rounds
• Finish: Matte Black
• Sights: No Sights, Threaded Muzzle
• Twist: 1:16" RH
• Grooves: 6
Popular Accessories
- Extended Magazine Release Lever
- Spare Magazines
- Scope and Mounts
- Carrying Case
- Picatinny Rail
- Bipod
- Muzzle Brake/Compensator
- Flash Suppressor
- Laser Sight
- Sling
Accuracy
The Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite is an accurate and reliable rifle. The receiver is made of alloy and is designed with a high-end, tight-tolerance fit. This ensures the barrel and action are on the same centerline which leads to increased accuracy. The traditional push-style safety blocks the trigger rather than the firing pin, and the lightweight barrel is threaded to facilitate the addition of a suppressor or compensator. The Ruger 10/22 Takedown Lite features adjustable sights so you can zero in your preferred setting. The trigger pull is very solid and you can easily adjust it down to a crisp and light pull weight. This rifle is also very lightweight, making it easy to carry in the field. In terms of accuracy, the 10/22 Takedown Lite delivers shot groups that are generally under one inch at fifty yards. With the proper maintenance and ammo selection, users should expect accuracy results similar to what Ruger promotes.
