The Ruger 10/22 is a legendary .22LR rifle, beloved for its reliability, affordability, and incredible aftermarket support. One area where many owners seek improvement is the trigger. The factory trigger, while functional, is often criticized for its gritty feel and relatively heavy pull weight. This guide dives deep into the Ruger 10/22 BX trigger, exploring its characteristics, common upgrades, and how to choose the best option for your shooting needs.
Understanding the Ruger 10/22 BX Trigger
The "BX" designation often refers to the trigger group found in newer Ruger 10/22 rifles. While Ruger has made several iterations of their trigger mechanism over the years, the BX trigger generally features a slightly improved design compared to older models. However, it still often falls short of the crisp, clean break desired by many shooters, particularly those involved in target shooting or competition. Key characteristics of the BX trigger typically include:
- Heavier Pull Weight: The factory pull weight is often in the range of 5-7 pounds, which can be excessive for precision shooting.
- Gritty Feel: The trigger often has a noticeable amount of creep and grit, making it difficult to achieve consistent, accurate shots.
- Take-up: There's often a significant amount of take-up before the trigger breaks, contributing to the overall imprecise feel.
Popular Ruger 10/22 BX Trigger Upgrades
The aftermarket offers a plethora of options for upgrading the Ruger 10/22 BX trigger. These upgrades range from simple drop-in replacements to more complex kits requiring some gunsmithing skills. Here are some of the most popular choices:
1. Drop-in Trigger Kits:
These kits are designed to replace the factory trigger group entirely. They often include a new trigger, hammer, and sear, providing a significant improvement in feel and pull weight. Popular brands include:
- Volquartsen: Known for their high-quality, precision-engineered components. Volquartsen triggers are renowned for their crisp break and light pull weight.
- Power Custom: Offers a range of trigger kits to suit various budgets and preferences.
- Trijicon: Offers robust, reliable triggers designed to withstand heavy use.
Choosing a drop-in kit is generally the easiest upgrade path, requiring minimal tools and gunsmithing knowledge.
2. Trigger Job:
A trigger job involves meticulously polishing and adjusting the existing trigger components to improve its feel and function. This requires a good understanding of firearms mechanics and specialized tools. While it can result in a significant improvement, it's generally recommended for experienced gunsmiths or those comfortable with detailed gun work.
3. Individual Component Upgrades:
Some shooters opt to replace individual components of the trigger group, such as the trigger, sear, or hammer, to address specific issues. This approach allows for a more customized upgrade, but requires careful selection of compatible parts.
Choosing the Right Upgrade for You
The best Ruger 10/22 BX trigger upgrade depends on your skill level, budget, and shooting goals.
- Beginner Shooters: A high-quality drop-in trigger kit from a reputable manufacturer is the easiest and most effective option.
- Experienced Shooters: A trigger job or the careful selection of individual components might be preferred for a more tailored upgrade.
- Budget Considerations: Prices vary significantly, so choose a kit that aligns with your budget.
Conclusion
Upgrading the Ruger 10/22 BX trigger is a common and highly effective modification that significantly enhances the shooting experience. By carefully considering your needs and skill level, you can choose an upgrade that transforms your rifle from a fun plinker into a precise and enjoyable shooting instrument. Remember always to prioritize safety and follow all applicable gun safety regulations when working on your firearm.
