The Ruger 10/22 has long been a staple in the .22LR world, known for its affordability, reliability, and ease of customization. But the competition scene demands more. This review dives deep into the Ruger 10/22 Competition rifle, exploring its features, performance, and suitability for various shooting disciplines. We'll examine what makes it a contender and where it might fall short.
What Sets the Ruger 10/22 Competition Rifle Apart?
The Ruger 10/22 Competition isn't just a standard 10/22 with a few upgrades; it's engineered from the ground up with competitive shooting in mind. Key features include:
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Heavy Barrel: The hallmark of any serious competition .22LR rifle is its barrel. The Ruger 10/22 Competition boasts a heavier, free-floating barrel, designed to minimize vibrations and enhance accuracy. This translates to tighter groups and improved consistency, crucial for high scores.
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Adjustable Stock: Many competition rifles incorporate adjustable stocks to personalize the fit for the shooter. The Competition model typically offers adjustments for length of pull and cheek weld, ensuring a comfortable and repeatable shooting position. This is critical for maintaining accuracy and consistency throughout a match.
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Improved Trigger: A crisp, clean trigger is essential for precise shot placement. Ruger often equips the Competition model with an improved trigger mechanism, offering a lighter pull weight and reduced overtravel. This refined trigger contributes significantly to better shot control.
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Enhanced Accuracy: The combination of the heavy barrel, adjustable stock, and improved trigger contributes to noticeably improved accuracy compared to a standard 10/22. While not a match for high-end custom builds, it offers a substantial step up in precision for its price point.
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Versatile Platform: The 10/22 platform's inherent modularity allows for further customization. Shooters can easily add accessories like optics, bipods, and aftermarket parts to tailor the rifle to their specific needs and shooting style.
Performance on the Range: Real-World Testing
The true test of any competition rifle is its performance on the range. In our testing, the Ruger 10/22 Competition consistently delivered impressive accuracy at various distances. Groups remained tight and predictable, even with rapid fire. The adjustable stock allowed for a comfortable and repeatable shooting position, contributing to the overall consistency. The improved trigger provided a clean break, aiding in precision shot placement.
However, it's important to note that ammunition choice significantly impacts performance. Using high-quality, match-grade .22LR ammunition is crucial to realize the rifle's full potential. Less-consistent ammunition will negatively impact accuracy, regardless of the rifle's capabilities.
Who is the Ruger 10/22 Competition Rifle For?
This rifle is an excellent choice for:
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Entry-level competitive shooters: It provides a solid foundation for those new to the sport, offering competitive performance without the high price tag of custom-built rifles.
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Plinking and casual target shooting: Even outside of formal competitions, the increased accuracy and comfortable ergonomics make it a joy to shoot for recreational purposes.
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Those seeking a customizable platform: The 10/22's readily available aftermarket parts and accessories allow for extensive personalization, making it suitable for a wide range of shooting styles and preferences.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Ruger 10/22 Competition is a fantastic rifle, it's not without its minor shortcomings:
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Magazines: While Ruger offers high-capacity magazines, reliability can sometimes be an issue, especially with aftermarket options.
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Price Point: While more affordable than many custom competition rifles, it's still an investment, and adding accessories can quickly drive up the overall cost.
Conclusion: A Strong Contender
The Ruger 10/22 Competition rifle delivers on its promise of providing a competitive edge at a relatively accessible price point. Its improved accuracy, comfortable ergonomics, and customizable nature make it a strong contender for both beginners and experienced shooters. While some minor drawbacks exist, its strengths significantly outweigh its weaknesses, making it a highly recommended choice for anyone looking to enter the world of .22LR competition or simply seeking a high-performing and versatile .22LR rifle.
