List of the Best Ruger 10/22 Upgrades and Modifications

| Last Updated:
September 2, 2023

The Ruger 10/22 is one of the most premier plinking rifles and small game hunting rifles on the market today. This semi-automatic jewel of a rifle has been knocking down cans, sniping squirrels, and filling up bullseyes since it went into consistent production in 1964.

The aftermarket for parts and accessories for the 10/22 is astounding and offers shooters a nearly endless array of options. Keep reading to check out the list of the best Ruger 10/22 upgrades and modifications!

Comparison of the Ruger 10/22 Accessories and Modifications

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Our Favorite Stock
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to install
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  • Our Favorite Barrel
  • Sturdy and rigid barrel
  • Simple to install
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  • Our Favorite Magazine
  • Strong polymer body
  • Created by Ruger
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  • Our Favorite Scope
  • 44mm objective lens
  • Performs great in low light conditions
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  • Our Favorite Sights
  • CNC machined. Not for carbine barrels.
  • Front diameter is .060"; rear diameter is .035".
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  • Our Favorite Rail Mount
  • 1 Picatinny rail with 11 slots
  • Low profile with middle V-cut for use with iron sights
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  • Our Favorite Bolt Release
  • Made from hardened, heat-treated, durable steel
  • Requires absolutely no fitting for a faster, easier to shoot 10/22
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What to Watch For When Buying Upgrades for Your Ruger 10/22

The sheer proliferation of aftermarket parts and accessories for the 10/22 rifle can make it difficult to figure out which ones are worth the money and which will leave you high and dry. There are a few important things to keep in mind while shopping for these upgrades and modifications. Use the tips and information below to help you on your mission of upgrading your Ruger 10/22.

This Section Written By: Brian Belko

Expert Author

Brian Belko: Gunmann Author

Brian is an experienced freelance writer and technical writer who has previously written for publications such as Wide Open Spaces, Bigfoot Gun Belts, Alien Gear Holsters, and Kampgrounds of America. He brings both a passion for writing and a love of the outdoors to his published content.

Aside from writing and the outdoors, Brian enjoys gardening, being a co-host on The Nostalgia Blast Podcast, and learning to code.

Investing in Stocks

When you aren’t too busy HODLing investment stocks, the hold offered by aftermarket 10/22 stocks is an important factor to consider when upgrading your rifle. There are a wide range of options available from basic synthetic Monte Carlo style stocks to wooden thumb hold stocks all the way up to fully modular tactical models. The sheer amount of different options means that you shouldn’t have a problem finding an option that works for your needs, budget, and taste.

Ideally, you’d be able to try out any stock upgrade you might be considering. Unfortunately, that isn’t always possible. Instead, pay attention to reviews from other shooters, think about what stock styles have worked for you in the past, keep your shooting needs in mind, and try to steer clear of options that sound too good to be true in price or features.

Photo credit: reddit.com

Barreling Down Range

Upgrading the barrel of a Ruger 10/22 rifle is one of the best ways to greatly increase performance and accuracy. It should be noted that there isn’t anything wrong with the performance of a 10/22 that has a factory barrel. For the majority of shooters, that will be more than enough. However, for those more serious about their 10/22 rifles such as competition shooters, long range squirrel hunters, and shooters who enjoy squeezing as much accuracy out of their rifles as possible, a barrel upgrade is the way to go.

There is a lot of variation in barrel designs, features, and styles so it is important to consider your specific needs while shopping for one. With everything from fluting, built-in compensators, and ultra-lightweight components, there is a barrel upgrade option out there for everyone.

Small but Mighty

Aside from new stock and barrel, other common 10/22 upgrades include scopes, sights, magazines, and accessory rails. However, don’t forget about smaller upgrades that can still have a big impact on rifle performance and overall user experience. These include things like bolt releases, extended extractors, and bolt tune-up kits. They might sound like small parts, but they can go a long way for a low price.

The Best Upgrades for Your Ruger 10/22

The best mods for your 1022 can be found below. Enjoy!

Best Stock

Magpul – Ruger 10/22 Hunter X-22 Stock Adj Polymer

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What Recent Buyers Report

The Magpul X-22 stock is among the very few products on the market with absolutely no negative reviews. The users love its lightweight and durable design and the capability to use both light and heavy profile barrels. The stock is easy to install and offers good customizability. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This stock is made out of polymer which is both lightweight and durable. The M-Lok slots, adjustable LOP, and reversible barrel tray make this stock a completely customizable package for a 10/22 chassis. The fit is tight and the stock doesn’t flex or wiggle under any circumstances. 

This modified stock from Magpul is a complete solution for upgrading your 10/22. The stock has been made from a polymer which makes it lightweight. It features a free-floating barrel design with a reversible tray, which works with all lengths and types of barrels designed for the 10/22.

The pistol-type grip handle gives you a sturdy grip over the firearm for efficient operation. The length of pull can be adjusted using spaces, so you can shoot easily regardless of the length and position of your arm. Plus, the manufacturer also provides optional adjustable cheek risers. A non-slip rubber butt pad ensures that the rifle doesn’t hurt or slip when you shoot. The stock has multiple sling mounting options and is also compatible with M-LOK for adding additional accessories. 

Who Will Use This Most

The stock is best for competitive shooters and hunters. Obviously due to the fact that the stock can accept almost every accessory compatible with the Ruger 10/22. Additionally, it is also good for target practice and introducing a beginner to the world of tactical rifles.

Bottom Line

The Magpul X-22 is the best aftermarket stock for the Ruger 10/22 rifle. It is lightweight, tough and offers a lot of customization options for the shooter. This stock brings out the best in your 10/22 and has been priced perfectly to suit every budget. 

The Magpul Stock for Ruger 10/22 is an amazing addition to your rifle. The stock will save you money on extra accessories like mounts and risers. Plus, it resistant to natural factors because of its polymer-based design.

Pros

Works with all Ruger 10/22 models

Adjustable LOP with rubber spacers

Lightweight and durable polymer construction

Sling mounting options and M-Lok compatible

Adjustable and compatible with multiple accessories

Reversible barrel tray accepts both light and heavy barrels

Drop-in design requires no gunsmithing and is easy to install

Cons

Doesn’t have a takedown screw and V-block

LOP adjustment is not instant and requires a tool

Best Barrel

VOLQUARTSEN – Ruger 10/22 LR Barrel

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What Recent Buyers Report

According to recent customer reviews, the users really like the accuracy, heat resistance and aesthetics of this barrel. The built quality is said to be exceptional and the barrel delivers the quality of a bull barrel at the weight of a normal barrel. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

The barrel is an important upgrade for the 10/22, so we decided to dig deep and come up with the best replacement barrel on the market. These barrels have been made from a mix of stainless steel, carbon fiber, and aluminum.

This is a match grade barrel which is very light in weight and has a match chamber and bore for outstanding accuracy. The carbon fiber shroud provides exceptional rigidity while minimizing the overall weight. Additionally, the comp variant includes a pre-installed compensator for mitigation recoil and muzzle rise.

Due to its design, these barrels are exceptionally lightweight. The barrels are available in standard and match variants, with 16.5 and 18.5-inch lengths, respectively. These barrels are already drilled and tapped for a barrel mount, cantilever, and scope mount.

The match barrel also has a compensator installed on the muzzle which can be removed when needed. The compensator has a multi-port single chamber, which helps to reduce the recoil, hence improving accuracy and providing faster follow up shots.

Who Will Use This Most

The barrel is perfect for competitive shooters. Basically because of the fact that it delivers exceptional accuracy due to its build quality, finish and balanced weight. The barrel is also good for practice and hunting small targets over long ranges. Overall, this barrel is for pro shooters who want the best out of their 10/22.

Bottom Line

The Volquartsen barrel is exceptionally accurate, lightweight and perfectly balanced to deliver ideal performance.  It installs in minutes and even includes a compensator to offer good value for money. It can withstand rigorous shooting sessions and is a great option for competitive shooting. 

The Volquartsen barrel is the best barrel upgrade for your 10/22. The match variant of the series also has a compensator installed, which helps reduce the recoil of the rifle. The barrel might seem pricey, but it will likely the last barrel upgrade you’ll ever need. 

Pros

Easy to install

Lightweight

Good value for your money

Sturdy barrel coated with carbon fiber

Cons

Only fits rifles with a single slot on the breech face

No threads for attaching a compensator on the standard model

Best Magazine

Ruger 10/22 BX-25 25Rd Magazine 22LR

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What Recent Buyers Report

Almost all users seem to be praising the quality construction of this magazine. The feeding of this mag is flawless and exceeds the standards of the 10 round OEM magazine by miles. The mag is also easy to maintain and doesn’t have any rounded corners that can hurt. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

The BX-25 magazine has been made from a high-grade polymer which doesn’t dent or get damaged when dropped. Plus the construction, fit, finish and feeding of this magazine are just perfect. The 25 round capacity lets you shoot for longer durations without reloading and the magazine has a long service life.

The magazine has a hard, molded-polymer body, backed by a tempered steel spring to ensure flawless feeding. The feed lips are made from steel, so you don’t have to worry about malfunctions. The magazine has a curved design to utilize maximum space for accommodating 25 rounds. Plus, it also provides a better grip when changing.

If you hate changing mags, this one is your best bet. However, this magazine is not for you if your local laws don’t allow high capacity magazines (Hi there, Californians!). So please check your local laws before buying one.

Who Will Use This Most

The magazine is perfect for plinking and practice. Obviously due to its large capacity of 25 rounds. It can take a lot of beating which is a very common event at the range. The magazine’s capacity also makes it a plausible option for self-defense. Especially when the 10/22 is the only weapon you have at hand. 

Bottom Line

The BX-25 magazine is a durable, lightweight and high-capacity magazine which feeds flawlessly no matter how many rounds you shoot during a session. The stainless steel feed lips and spring offer reliable feeding. While the banana shape offers a compact and easy-to-hold design. 

The very first thing to take note of is that the magazine is manufactured by Ruger. Secondly, the magazine has an enormous capacity and a durable body. It is more economical than buying multiple five or ten round magazines. It is suitable for use in hunting, competitions, and self-defense. 

Pros

High capacity

Steel feed lips

Manufactured by Ruger itself

Lightweight and strong polymer body

Cons

Not allowed in some states

Best Scope

Vortex Optics – 6-18x44mm V-Brite Matte Black 

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What Recent Buyers Report

The scope is very accurate and easy to adjust for windage, elevation illumination settings. The illuminated red dot makes it even more useful for low light shooting. The dead hold BDC reticle is very useful, especially with the right bullet grain. The scope holds its settings under recoil and maneuvering the rifle.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Finding the right optical scope for your 10/22 can be tricky since the rifle has a somewhat limited range. But we still managed to come up with a versatile scope for the job.

The scope has a high magnification of 6x-18x and a large objective complimented by an illuminated reticle. The scope holds its settings and can be interchanged with other more powerful bolt-action or semi-auto rifles. The long eye relief, easy adjustments, and durable construction are also admirable plus points of the scope.

The scope has a wide 44mm objective lens which allows a lot of light to pass through so you can obtain a clear sight picture even under low-light conditions. The scope tube is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and is nitrogen purged. The O-ring is sealed to resist shock, water, and fog. The scope also has turrets for adjusting windage, elevation, and parallax.

The dead hold BDC reticle lets you take distant shots without the need for adjusting the turrets. The best part of buying this scope is that it can be swapped to almost every other rifle because of its magnifying power. Whether a 10/22 or an M82, this scope is quite versatile to handle them all. 

Who Will Use This Most

The scope is ideal for competitive shooters, hunters and practice. The illuminated BDC reticle makes it perfect for low light hunting. Plus the long-range and large objective allows you to utilize the maximum effective range potential of your rifle. The scope is equally useful for the pro’s as it is to a beginner. 

Bottom Line

The Vortex Crossfire II is a high-end scope which can be interchanged with other rifles and delivers impeccable range and accuracy. The scope has an illuminated reticle and allows you to adjust its brightness settings. Making it perfect for low light shooting. The single-piece construction is very durable and resistant to harsh conditions.

The scope has a high magnification power and works exceptionally well under low-light conditions. The scope can be used on a 10/22 and almost all of your rifles.

Pros

Large objective

Full coated lenses

High magnification power

Waterproof, shockproof and fog proof

Long eye relief with fast focus eyepiece

Cons

Pricey

Best Sight

10/22 Truglo Rifle Sight Set – Red/Green

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What Recent Buyers Report

The factors most liked by users are the inexpensive price, ease of installation and high placement. While the sights are made from metal, some users did point out the flimsy design of the front sight. Additionally, users also praise the quick target acquisition of this sight. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

One of the best upgrades for a standard Ruger 10/22 rifle is improving the sights. Most shooters opt for a new scope, but for the shooter who is on a budget or simply prefers using iron sights to glass, a new set of sights like the red and green set from Truglo are the way to do it.

This aftermarket sight is a low cost and quick replacement for Ruger 10/22 aftermarket sights. The combination of green and orange colors coupled with a wide diameter makes acquisition quick and easy. Plus the high front sight offers better convenience to the shooter. Additionally the rear sight is adjustable which is also a plus. 

Truglo uses fiber optic tubes in a variety of colors to gather available light in order to make the sights glow brightly during the day. These sights are slightly oversized for a precise fitting unique to the shooter’s rifle. Once installed, the rear sight is completely adjustable for windage and elevation.

Who Will Use This Most

These sights are good for competitions, hunting and practice. The combination of colors offers quick sighting in both day and low light conditions. These sights are also quite useful for elderly people with weak eyesight. Additionally, these sights can also prove to be an asset for home defense if the need arises. 

Bottom Line

The Truglo Rimfire sights are a cheap and useful replacement for the factory sights on your 10/22. These sights are full metal and don’t require any batteries or maintenance. The fiber optic wire can be easily replaced if needed. 

Pros

Fits some other .22’s as well

Durable CNC machined metal construction

High sights can be seen over the scope rail

Rear sight is adjustable for windage and elevation

Combination of green and orange fiber optics for quick acquisition

Cons

May shoot a bit high at close range

Fiber optics are prone to damage and loss

Best Rail Mount

 UTG .22 Tactical Low Profile Rail Mount (#22)

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What Recent Buyers Report

This Picatinny rail offers great value for price, perfect fit, and precise function, as most buyers report. The rail is easy to install and comes with mounting screws. It is extremely lightweight and adds to the aesthetics of your 10/22. It doesn’t require any customizations for installation and has a low profile for better handling of the rifle. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

One of the downsides to the Ruger 10/22 rifle as it comes from the factory is the substandard scope mount which is shipped with many of the rifles.

This rail is inexpensive, comes pre-drilled with holes, includes mounting hardware and has a low profile. The rail has the perfect bottom contour to fit the receiver and has 11 slots(4.9 inches) to provide ample mounting space. The V-cut design allows it to be used with iron sights, and the finish is just perfect to withstand the test of time. 

It is aluminum and made by Ruger, but it is intended for use with 22 rings intended for a groove type of mount and not the Weaver or Picatinny style that the factory mount resembles. UTG addresses this by manufacturing a true Picatinny mount that installs into the pre-drilled holes on the rifle’s receiver.

Who Will Use This Most

Anybody who wants to mount a scope over their Ruger 10/22 will love this rail. It may be a competitive shooter, hunter, or even a plinker. The rail is essential to mount an optic over the rifle whether it is a scope, BUIS or a red dot. 

Bottom Line

The UTG Tactical picatinny rail is an inexpensive and must-have accessory for your 10/22. A rail on your rifle will allow you to add optics which are essential for shooting distant targets. This rail also allows you to use the iron sights and comes with all essential hardware for mounting.

Pros

V-cut in the middle allows you to use iron sights

Made from lightweight and high quality aluminum

Single piece tactical Picatinny rail with 11 slots for more mounting space

Pre-drilled holes and supplied with screws for quick and sturdy installation

Cons

May require a little bit of filing for the holes

Can have play so add some thread locker (Loctite)

Best Bolt Release

Volquartsen Custom Automatic Bolt Release

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What Recent Buyers Report

Most buyers of the automatic bolt release found this part so useful that they recommended it being included as a factory component. The release is extremely easy to install and features a good build quality. Almost every user of this auto bolt release seemed content about the quality, function, and price. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This next accessory is one of those parts that the shooter does not realize how valuable it is until after he installs it on his rifle.

The automatic bolt release is a must-have component for the 10/22. The Ruger 10/22 is a legendary rifle in its class, but what causes a user to falter is the hectic bolt release. Adding this auto release will improve the handling of the rifle. 

The Custom automatic Bolt Release from Volquartsen allows the shooter to release the bolt on his Ruger 10/22 rifle by pulling the bolt slightly rearward, as opposed to pushing up on the bolt lock. Installation is simple and does not require the need of a gun smith.

Who Will Use This Most

While this bolt release is a must-have for every Ruger 10/22 owner. Competitive shooters and hunters will find it the most useful. Since the release eliminates the need for gyrating the bolt, the shooter can focus more upon the target and shall not struggle with the bolt. 

Bottom Line

The Volquartsen automatic bolt release is an inexpensive and minor component which serves a great purpose for the 10/22. The release will ease the overall operation of the rifle and is very easy to install. However, keep in mind that it works only with Volquartsen and Ruger factory bolts and trigger guards. 

Pros

Tough stainless steel construction

Makes locking the bolt quick, simple and easy

Very easy to install, even at the hands of a beginner

Drop-in part. Doesn’t need any modifications or fitting

Cons

No instructions included in the package

Best Bipod

UTG Tactical OP Bipod – SWAT/Combat Profile Adjustable Height

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What Recent Buyers Report

The bipod is easy to install on the 10/22 and fits nicely. It has a perfect size, impeccable build quality and is very easy to use. The bipod is ideal for its price and works flawlessly with the 10/22. However, some users pointed out that the bipod is short and not fit for high capacity mags.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The UTG bipod is a compact and complete package for the 10/22. It is compatible with swivel studs and Picatinny rails and has adjustable legs. It also has the capability to pan which helps with taking down moving targets. The bipod can also be used with other rifles, which makes it a good bet for your money. 

Installing a bipod used to be relatively easy when they simply clamped to an existing sling swivel stud. The best part was if the rifle had no stud, a trip to the local sporting goods store could yield two for less than $7.

Unfortunately as more rifles came with standard Picatinny rails installed on their forends, the majority of bipod manufacturers followed suit, meaning to install an older style bipod meant buying a $30 adapter.

UTG solved that problem with their Tactical Op Bi-pod as it accommodates either system in this compact bipod that folds, adjusts from 6” to 8” and uses posi-lock wheels. I’d also suggest checking out our full buyers guide on the best 10/22 bipods

Who Will Use This Most

The UTG bipod is the perfect accessory for hunters. Mainly due to the fact that it can pan around and has grippy feet which can allow the shooter to place the rifle firmly over any surface. The bipod can also be used for target practice and competitions, especially when shooting in the prone position. 

Bottom Line

The UTG bipod is an inexpensive and useful addition for your Ruger 10/22 if you are a hunter or get involved in competitions. The bipod is quite compact and useful with low to medium capacity magazines. It deploys/retracts quickly and can be mounted/dismounted within seconds. 

Pros

Includes swivel stud and Picatinny mounts

Rubberized feet for better grip and stability

Allows panning to offer wide viewing angles

Lightweight and durable bipod with folding legs

Adjustable legs with Posi-lock wheel and quick retraction button

Cons

Weighs about 11.5 oz and may feel heavy

Doesn’t offer enough clearance for long magazines

Best Drop-In Trigger Job

Ruger Target Trigger by Volquartsen

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What Recent Buyers Report

The trigger features quality construction and is very accurate. The adjustments are quite easy to make and enhance the performance of the trigger. However, some users advised that the length of the stop screws wasn’t optimal. The overall performance and purpose of this trigger were well served. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

A complete trigger job on a Ruger 10/22 rifle is a thing of beauty and Volquartsen’s Target Trigger gets the shooter more than halfway there.

The trigger allows you to adjust the overtravel and pretravel. The crisp pull of the trigger coupled with this adjustable design improves the accuracy of this weapon. Additionally, you don’t have to disassemble the gun to adjust the stop screw. The trigger feel after the conversion is also very good. 

The Target Trigger eliminates the over travel and issues with trigger creep found on the factory trigger. It does nothing to affect the weight of the trigger, but represents an excellent first step and halfway point to getting there.

Who Will Use This Most

The adjustable design and crisp pull of this trigger make it perfect for competitions and hunting. The stop screw adjustment doesn’t require the user to disassemble the rifle, so you can make adjustments instantly on the field. Meanwhile, the trigger can also be used with a 10/22 intended for self-defense.

Bottom Line

The Volquartsen trigger is a good upgrade to improve the accuracy of your 10/22 rifle. The trigger is easy to adjust for pre and over travel and has a curved design to offer better grip. It is a simple but effective replacement for your OEM trigger shoe. 

Pros

Curved and smooth shoe for better grip

Stop screw is adjustable for overtravel and pretravel

Doesn’t require disassembly for making adjustments

Precision machined from aluminum billet for optimal weight

Cons

Set screw on the back is a bit short

Installation instructions not included in the package

Best Sling

Web Gun Sling w/ Swivels from Allen Slide & Lock

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What Recent Buyers Report

The sling is pretty simple and rugged with an easy mounting mechanism. The sling can be attached/detached in seconds and the adjuster holds well without being difficult to adjust. Users also appreciate the quality and the price of this sling. Along with its interchangeability with other rifles.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The sling is one of the simplest and easiest accessories to install on a rifle and it is the most important aftermarket accessory for a real field shooter or hunter, in order to be able to carry the rifle for any length of time, hands free. This nylon model from Ruger includes a shoulder pad and was specifically made for the Ruger 10/22.

The sling has a very basic but effective design. The nylon webbing is rugged and strong to withstand harsh treatment. All the hardware is made from metal and well-built to withstand the test of time. The sling can be adjusted for length and installs within seconds using the quick detach tabs. 

Who Will Use This Most

The sling is perfect for outdoor use. Due to its rugged and minimalistic design the sling will be a good accessory for hunters wandering out in the woods. Additionally, the absence of any extra features allows the shooter to use it as a ‘hasty sling’ to shoot steadily while standing unsupported. 

Bottom Line

The Allen company sling is a simple, inexpensive and useful addition to your Ruger 10/22 rifle. It is a rugged and adjustable nylon strap which mounts/dismounts instantly. It can withstand harsh treatment and can also assist with improving stability when you need to improvise. 

Pros

Slide and lock tab for adjusting the length

Doesn’t feel stretchy or sag after prolonged use

1.25 inches wide web strap and rated for 300 lbs

Metal hardware coated with plastic for better resistance

Features quick detaching swivels for easy mounting/dismounting

Cons

Webbing collects moisture and dirt

Simple design with no padding or extra features

Best Edge Extractor

Volquartsen Custom Exact Edge Extractor for 10/22

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What Recent Buyers Report

The Volquartsen edge extractor is a flawless and effective product with almost zero negative reviews anywhere. Users frequently report that jamming issues with their 10/22 rifles and Ruger pistols come down to absolute zero after installing this extractor. The build quality and low price are also admirable features of this extractor among buyers. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

The extractor practically eliminates spent case extraction issues from the Ruger 10/22. It is slightly longer in dimensions compared to the OEM part, and the hook doesn’t corrode or diminish with use. It works flawlessly with both high quality and cheap ammunition and delivers consistent ignition. 

An improved extractor from Volquartsen is often the ticket to allow a Ruger 10/22 cycle with various brands of ammunition. Volquartsen’s extractor will alternately work on a Ruger MKIII target pistol in addition to the Ruger 10/22.

Who Will Use This Most

The extractor is a useful addition to the 10/22 for competitions, hunting, target practice and tactical uses. In other words, it is a must-have product for situations where you cannot afford a stuck case.  It is also good for range use since it eliminates the fuss with clearing jammed cases and let’s you focus on shooting. 

Bottom Line

The Volquartsen edge extractor is a small but useful upgrade to your 10/22. It will completely eliminate extraction issues which can mark the difference between success and failure in a desperate or critical situation. Additionally, the exactor is quite inexpensive and will not hurt your wallet.  

Pros

High quality construction and premium finish

Hardened extractor doesn’t lose its edge over time

Easy to install and doesn’t require any modifications

Sharper and longer designed compared to OEM extractor

Cons

Smaller spring to compensate for the length

Best Magazine Caps

Magpul Ruger 10/22 SR/22 Magazine Caps Dust Covers

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Review

Ruger’s initial 10-shot rotary magazine for the Ruger 10/22 rifle was a remarkable innovation of its time and the improved BX-25 magazine finally brought reliability to an increased capacity magazine for the 10/22. Mag Pal makes a cover that protects the magazines from dirt and debris as well as the lips of the magazine.

The Ruger 10/22 rifle gives the shooter a multitude of options when it comes to customization. These 10 accessories represent some of the best and most needed accessories to wring the most enjoyment out of your shooting experiences.

Best Adapter

Ruger 10/22 Adapter 1/2X28 With Free Thread Protector

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What Recent Buyers Report

The thread adapter is a simple and useful addition to the 10/22. It has been manufactured using high-grade aluminum and has a tough finish. The adapter fits easily and may need some adjustments during installation. Another very favorable factor for the buyers was the low price and the value this adapter delivers. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

The thread adapter is an inexpensive, simple and useful accessory for your rifle. It allows you to install muzzle brakes compensators and even suppressors. It costs less than a sling and converts your 10/22 from a simple plinker to a more accurate and deadly weapon.

If a shooter is looking to install a silencer on his Ruger 10/22 and does not have a threaded barrel, or the means to afford one, this adapter from Lethal-Eye is the way to go and the price is worth it.

The adapter slides over the muzzle of a standard Ruger 10/22, wraps around the sight and is held in place via two set screws. The adapter includes a free thread protector to prevent the threads from damage when not using a silencer. It is not the ideal way to add a silencer to a Ruger 10/22 but it seems like an effective solution for the budget minded shooter.

Who Will Use This Most

The adapter is for people who want to add a muzzle device to their 10/22. While competition shooters will need a muzzle brake or comp, an indoor range shooter might want to add a suppressor to control noise. Either way, this adapter is a useful little accessory that must be a part of your gear.

Bottom Line

This 10/22 muzzle thread adapter Since threaded barrels are not common and will differ largely in price. This is an intelligent upgrade to the rifle. The adapter should be carried by everyone who intends to add a muzzle device to their Ruger 10/22. 

Pros

Manufactured from high-grade aluminum

Comes ready to fit with 3 hex screws and hex wrench

Allows you to add muzzle devices on non-threaded barrels

Slip-on design doesn’t require any modifications to the rifle

Cons

Prone to wiggling if not installed properly

May require some time and effort to install

Best Trigger

Power Custom – Deluxe 10/22 Trigger Module

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Review

Coming to the trigger, we have uncovered the best trigger upgrade for your Ruger 10/22 on the market. This trigger assembly has a housing made from aluminum and a trigger pull of 2.25 pounds. It is a single stage trigger with a wide shoe for easy grip and adjustable pull weight.

The assembly has a simple drop-in installation using the factory pins, so you don’t have to make any drilling or machining. The hammer is lightweight, which reduces the lock time, whereas an extra-power spring ensures reliable ignition. Additionally, the pretravel and overtravel time of the trigger can also be adjusted. The housing has a removable side plate to ensure smooth adjustment of internal movable parts. The deluxe model of this trigger kit also includes a CST auto bolt stop which holds the bolt open after the last shot is fired. The trigger assembly works only with Power Custom modified magazines, so the manufacturer includes one with the package. However, there is a newer version which works with all kinds of 10/22 magazines

Bottom Line

This trigger assembly is one-of-a-kind upgrade to your 10/22. The adjustable pull weight lets you modify the trigger according to your needs. The assembly is available in a variety of colors so it will also help you with aesthetics. 

Pros

Durable

Wide shoe for easy grip

Adjustable weight of pull

Easy to install and service

Cons

Only works with power custom modified magazines

Best Barrel Band

Promag Ruger 10/22 Carbine Tactical Barrel Band

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What Recent Buyers Report

Users of this barrel band deem it to be a useful product that allows them to mount bipods and other rails with a single accessory. The barrel is well-built and an excellent upgrade for the 10/22. However, some users also complained about the rail tolerances and the fitting of the band. But such reports were quite rare. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

The barrel is a simple addition to a Ruger 10/22 and doesn’t require any permanent modifications to the weapon. It allows the user to add a sling along with two other accessories to the rifle. Which is amazing and turns this simple plinker into an effective tactical rifle. 

It is a carryover from competitive long range rifle shooting, but probably has little bearing on the accuracy of a Ruger 10/22. So if a shooter wants to install a sling, laser, flashlight, bipod or combination of the above without constantly drilling and tapping the stock, they could do much worse than Pro Mag’s tactical barrel band.

Completely machined of Military aircraft grade aluminum, this barrel is a drop in fit and easily allows the mounting of various accessories.

Who Will Use This Most

This barrel band is a perfect upgrade for tactical users and hunters. It allows you to mount a bipod which is definitely useful for a hunter. The side Picatinny rail lets you add a flashlight which can be useful for home defense and other low light applications like scouting or foraging. 

Bottom Line

The ProMag Ruger barrel band is a useful addition to the rifle which allows you to mount a sling and other accessories to improve the overall effectiveness of the rifle. It is fairly easy to install and features durable construction. A good addition for tactical and hunting purposes. 

Pros

Quick and simple installation without tools

Reversible design suits right and left-hand users

Durable band machined from high-grade aluminum

Features small Picatinny mounts for adding accessories

Includes a sling mount point which accepts 1.25” wide slings

Cons

May require some fitting or adjustment

Rail tolerances can be a bit off for some units

Why the Ruger 10/22 is Such a Great Gun to Upgrade

The very first and most straightforward reason to upgrade your Ruger 10/22 is that it’s very common. Whether you are a hunter, competitive shooter, or just a casual plinker, you’ll find a nearly every firearm owner owns a Ruger 10/22. The 10/22 fires the .22 caliber ammunition which is exceptionally cheap, so you can burn through the ammo without worrying about its cost. This, in turn, makes the 10/22 an amazing rifle for practice. It doesn’t matter if you’re an amateur learning the basics of shooting or a pro practicing for a competition. Another very good reason to upgrade your 10/22 is its intended use.

This rifle is widely used for varmint hunting, self-defense and even full-scale hunting (with specific models). Upgrading this rifle makes it a more versatile and effective tool in your arsenal. Not to mention that it also compliments the overall performance and longevity of your rifle, which is a good practice. 

Photo credit: thefirearmblog.com

Types of Ruger 10/22 Upgrades

The Ruger 10/22 has a ton of different aftermarket upgrades available. Here, we’ll learn about the most prominent ones. Let’s start with the most basic and necessary upgrade, rails and mounts. Having a good set of Picatinny/Weaver rails and/or scope rings will allow you to easily mount scopes, tac lights, lasers, and other relevant accessories on your 10/22. 

The next important upgrade is the barrel. When you have realized the maximum accuracy potential of your current barrel, it’s time to upgrade to a new one. A good barrel greatly improves the overall accuracy of your rifle. Moving further, the next important thing you want to upgrade is the trigger. The factory trigger is just the basic stuff. If you want to modify the pull and travel time of your trigger, it’s better to upgrade to a new one. 

Another major addition to your rifle is a good scope or sight. This will not only increase your shooting range but will also help you with accuracy. Finally, we come to the ultimate upgrade, which is the stock. If you upgrade to a completely new stock, it will probably include mounts, a barrel, and a cheek riser which will solve most of your concerns.

Video Overview of the Best Ruger 10/22 Mods

Conclusion

The Ruger 10/22 is one of the most popular and widely owned rifles on this planet. While it shoots a less-lethal .22LR caliber, it is indeed a perfect weapon for practice, training, and hunting. The Ruger 10/22 is a simple and reliable weapon. But mounting the right accessories and adding the right upgrades will make it a tough competitor for modern tactical rifles. 

Michael Lutes

Michael Lutes is the managing editor and owner at Gun Mann. He is a veteran, gun enthusiast, 3 gun competitor, and 2a advocate. Mike has a passion for innovation and education across the industry to create great content, training, and insights from the best and brightest.