Ruger 10 / 22 rifles have been part of my collection since the early 1980s. It is still being used by my son and grandsons today. Since then, I have switched over to a takedown model, the Ruger 10/22 Takedown. A large aftermarket parts and accessory industry has developed around Ruger’s 10 / 22. A complete 10 / 22 rifle can now be built without using a single Ruger part. In such a build, the first question is: what is the best 10 / 22 chassis?
There are almost too many options available. Several new companies offer aftermarket parts for the Ruger 10/22 every week, including chassis. How do you choose? What are the options? What are the differences? When it comes to the build or upgrade of a Ruger 10 / 22, there are some questions and options you need to ask and consider.
By providing some answers to the questions I posed above, I hope to help you answer them. It is not as difficult as some people might think to build a custom rifle. It takes a little thought, some preparation, and a little time, but most average shooters can handle it.
Upgrade or Build?
Ruger 10 / 22 shooters almost always upgrade their stock rifles at some point. Make your rifle your own with accessories like a higher capacity magazine or optical sight, which are easy to find and mount.
Changing internal parts like trigger groups or barrels elevates the upgrade level. Drop-in trigger components make it relatively simple to create trigger groups. Changing the chassis is a little more difficult for Ruger 1-/22 owners, but still doable.
What is the purpose of changing a Roger 10 / 22 chassis?
Ruger 10 / 22’s factory chassis is well known for its superb design. It’s an excellent rifle that Ruger delivers from its factory, and the chassis lasts for many years without ever requiring any maintenance. Despite their factory chassis, two of my Ruger 10 / 22s are still running smoothly.
If you are a serious rimfire shooter who understands the ballistic characteristics of 22 Rimfire Long Rifle Cartridges, a Ruger 10 / 22 chassis will be the choice for you. There are several reasons why shooters change the chassis of their Ruger 10 / 22.
Precision target shooters understand that rifles with tighter tolerances perform better. For rapid and easy assembly and manufacture, factory-built mass-produced rifles usually have larger tolerances. Shooters who want to improve accuracy change the chassis of their Rugers 10 / 22 regularly in competition.
There is a wide range of accessories available for aftermarket Ruger 10 / 22 chassis than are available for factory models. It is easier to add some types of accessories and aftermarket parts with these custom features.
The materials, fit, and finish of Ruger factory rifles are excellent. In spite of this, Ruger 10 / 22 chassis manufacturers have taken customization to a whole new level. It is possible to buy Ruger 10 / 22 chassis in pretty much any material, from titanium to aluminum. In addition to the Ruger 10 / 22 chassis, many different companies offer new Ruger chassis in a variety of colors, enabling you to design totally unique rifles.
Is There Anything I Should Consider When Selecting a Ruger 10 / 22 Chassis?
In order to make a wise decision, you need to consider several factors. Having more options makes choosing harder. In any case, taking those choices into consideration now will result in a rifle that will meet your requirements and expectations.
Ruger 10 / 22 rifles with fixed barrels and takedown models represent your first decision. The choice is obvious if you are upgrading an existing rifle. The Ruger 1022 rifle comes in two different styles, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In terms of convenience, Ruger 10 / 22s have takedown styles that can be disassembled easily. Takedown rifles are recommended for backpackers and people who plan to carry their rifle in a vehicle most of the time. A fixed barrel model will tend to be more accurate if accuracy is the goal.
A Ruger 10 / 22 upgrade chassis is typically made of aluminum or steel. Many manufacturers also offer exotic materials. Whether it is steel or aluminum, both make excellent chassis for the Ruger 10 / 22. Steel tends to weigh more.
Make sure that the design of your Ruger 10 / 22 chassis doesn’t require proprietary parts or fittings if you want the widest range of parts and accessories. To eliminate the need for gunsmithing and custom fitting, aftermarket chassis drop-in styles are preferred.
If you want to upgrade or build rifles, your budget is always an important factor. Have a firm grasp on your project’s cost before you start. Don’t forget to account for any additional additions or upgrades you would like to make to your Ruger 10 / 22 chassis while changing it.