jordandakota

Hey guys. I'm looking into buying one of the most popular rifles in the world. My question is, can you change barrels without taking the rifle to a gun smith? If I get one I will be taking lots of rapid shots at gophers and I would rather have a heavy barrel instead of the regular barrel so it doesn't heat up as fast. Also, I would like to get a different stock for it too. Are these 2 things hard to change from the factory equipment? Thanks.

Edit: Sorry I posted this in the classifieds. I wasn't paying attention.

JimH

jordandakota - barrel and stock swaps are very straight forward on 10/22s. You can find 10/22 disassembly instructions on the Ruger website that will show how straight forward this is. See the information at the below links. Ruger also offers a heavy barrel Target Model that has a sporter-type stock.

Target Model: Ruger 10/22 Target Autoloading Rifle
Disassembly Video: Ruger® 10/22 Target Autoloading Rifle Extras

jordandakota

I like the looks of the target model but I don't have the extra $$$ to spend on it but I would like to do the changes myself for the experience and self-satisfaction. The reason for not just buying the target model is it's too hard to save up enough at one time to buy that model from the start so I would like to buy the rifle and save for the barrel and eventually the stock. Thanks for the info too.

tomgartin

I've done a lot of time on the 10/22 and I don't think you have anything to worry about. You'll run out of gophers before your barrel heats up enough to affect its service.

jimbo1096

If you've got 15 minutes and a couple of basic tools, you can change stock and barrel on the 10-22

el gavilan

Flat tip screwdriver for the take-down screw and a 5/32 allen wrench for the 2 barrel retainer screws. Easy!

jordandakota

You haven't seen the place I shoot gophers at. My cousin's fiancee has a big pasture that is absolutely full of them. That's good to know though that the barrels are pretty good for the heat issue. I just like the looks of the heavy barrel and tactical-style stocks. Would it be an option to just buy a Ruger 10/22 action? I found a nice kit that comes with a stock and a barrel and if I could just find a 10/22 action I could put them together to have a heavy barrel .22 without even spending as much as a regular 10/22 carbine.

el gavilan

10/22 receivers get listed for sale once in awhile online but usually the asking price will be more than buying a used one. Especially when you add the cost of a trigger group, bolt, etc. Start looking in SD for one in good condition, Ruger sold millions of them and you'll find one you like.

BlkHawk73

YUP! People worry too much about this. If you were shooting 1/2 MOA expectations maybe, but minute of gopher...Your finger will wear out before you worry about an overheated bbl.
Check pawn shops and local classifieds for a used one.

tomgartin

But seriously, I like traditional looks so I guess I'm biased. If you like a tactical/military style rifle then go for it. It's gotta be a lot cheaper to tinker with and shoot than an AR where you drop at least $1k just for bone stock, right?

jordandakota

I like the looks of the tactical style rifles, yes, and that is my whole reasoning for looking for a 10/22 because you can make them so much more than what they are from the factory. I mainly want something that looks nice and shoots accurately. I have been searching and can't find a used one anywhere near me, so I guess it's gonna have to be brand new, which is alright. They're definitely worth investing in though, correct?

Rugerismisticness

Heat really isn't too bad of a problem with .22LR. Me and my son did a science fair experiment firing alot of rounds and measuring group size and temperture. Not too bad, the biggest group was like .8 at 30 yards with CCI SV after 200 rounds rapid fire.

tomgartin

Yep. Haven't had a problem yet, nor have any of the 10/22 rifles my friends have used, or the one my dad uses which is significantly older than mine.

Wolfen

Jordan

For Starters, take a look Here -

Customizing the Ruger 10/22 - an "Ultimate" Experience

And Here -

10/22s for the 10/22 Newbie! - RimfireCentral.com Forums

And Here -

basic dissasembly of a 10/22 (tutorial in progress) - RimfireCentral.com Forums

Wolfen

BlkHawk73

If by investing you mean to purchase now in hopes/expectation sof having it increase in value to make $...No.
If you mean worth while as a base to build upon...Yes.

5 Boyz

any feedback on the sr22

smithtrailers

I'm new to the sight, but, had to throw my 2 cents in. Me and my son changed our stocks to the Tapco and so far it is great. It is adjustable and easy to carry. Seems to be lighter weight. Less than $100 for kit. Well made and easy install.