The Ruger 10/22 is a legendary .22 LR platform, celebrated for its reliability and incredible customizability. Whether you use it for plinking, small game hunting, or competitive shooting, a few strategic upgrades can significantly enhance its performance, accuracy, and ergonomics. Moving beyond the factory configuration allows you to tailor the rifle precisely to your needs and shooting style.
This expert guide curates the ten best upgrades to get the most out of your Ruger 10/22. We’ve focused on components that deliver the most noticeable improvements, from foundational optics mounting and crisp triggers to ergonomic stocks and essential maintenance tools. Building your ideal 10/22 starts with selecting the right parts for the job.
Our Top Ruger 10/22 Upgrade Picks
- EGW Ruger 10/22 Takedown Picatinny Rail Scope Mount 0 MOA
- EGW Ruger 10/22 Picatinny Rail Scope Mount – 20 MOA
- CNC Machined Ruger 10/22 Extended Lever
- Ruger 10/22 Ultimate Upgrade Kit – 4-Piece Set
- Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Riflescope with Multi-X Reticle
- UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope, AO, RGB Mil-dot
- Magpul Hunter X-22 Stock for Ruger 10/22
- Magpul MOE X-22 Stock for Ruger 10/22
- TANDEMKROSS Magazine Assembly Tool for Ruger 10/22
- Volquartsen Target Hammer and Sear Kit for Ruger 10/22
EGW Ruger 10/22 Takedown Picatinny Rail Scope Mount 0 MOA
A solid scope mount is the foundation for accuracy, and this EGW option is a reliable starting point. Machined from domestic 6061-T6 aluminum and finished with a durable matte black anodizing, it provides a rock-steady platform for your optics. The 0 MOA cant is ideal for standard-range shooting, keeping your shots on target at typical .22 LR distances.
This one-piece Picatinny rail replaces the factory base, offering a much more secure mounting solution and greater flexibility for ring placement. Its low-profile design helps maintain a proper cheek weld, and the included mounting hardware ensures a straightforward installation. For general plinking and hunting applications, this mount offers excellent performance and value.
EGW Ruger 10/22 Picatinny Rail Scope Mount – 20 MOA
For shooters pushing their 10/22 to longer ranges or using a scope with limited internal elevation adjustment, a 20 MOA cant is a game-changer. This EGW rail is angled downward toward the barrel, effectively giving your scope more usable elevation travel. This allows you to zero at longer distances without running out of “up” adjustment in the turret.
Constructed with the same high-quality 6061-T6 aluminum and robust matte black finish as the 0 MOA version, this mount is built to last. It is an essential upgrade for anyone involved in precision rimfire competitions or long-range varminting. By maximizing your scope’s potential, this rail helps you make the most of your rifle’s inherent accuracy.
CNC Machined Ruger 10/22 Extended Lever
This extended lever is a small upgrade that makes a significant difference in handling and speed. Crafted from aircraft-grade billet aluminum using CNC machining, it is both lightweight and exceptionally durable. The enlarged surface area provides a much more positive and comfortable grip compared to the small factory latch.
The primary benefit is a smoother, faster, and more reliable release of the bolt assembly, especially during takedown or cleaning. It is a pure drop-in part that requires no gunsmithing or modification, making it one of the easiest and most satisfying upgrades you can perform. The improved tactile feedback enhances the overall user experience every time you handle the rifle.
Ruger 10/22 Ultimate Upgrade Kit – 4-Piece Set
For those looking to improve multiple aspects of their rifle at once, this comprehensive 4-piece kit offers a convenient solution. It bundles several popular internal upgrades into one package, designed to enhance performance, reliability, and ease of use. This is an excellent starting point for a build without the need to research and purchase individual components separately.
The kit includes precision-crafted parts made from wear-resistant materials, built to withstand repeated use. While the exact components can vary, such kits often feature an auto bolt release, extended magazine release, and enhanced extractor. This allows you to address common points for improvement in a single, cost-effective purchase.
Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Riflescope with Multi-X Reticle
The Bushnell Banner is a classic hunting scope that pairs perfectly with the Ruger 10/22. Its 3-9x magnification range is versatile enough for everything from close-range plinking to precise shots on small game at distance. The 40mm objective lens, combined with fully multi-coated optics, provides a bright and clear sight picture.
A key feature is the Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) system, which helps maximize light transmission during the low-light conditions often encountered while hunting. With an extended 6 inches of eye relief, this scope offers a forgiving and comfortable shooting experience. It is a dependable and proven optic that represents solid value for any hunter.
UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope, AO, RGB Mil-dot
The UTG BugBuster is a compact, feature-packed scope ideal for a lightweight 10/22 build. Its most notable feature is the adjustable objective (AO), which allows you to correct parallax from as close as three yards out to infinity. This makes it an outstanding choice for both close-quarters target shooting and longer-range applications.
This scope also includes a red and green illuminated Mil-dot reticle, providing versatility in various lighting conditions. It comes complete with its own set of quick-detach (QD) rings, allowing for easy installation and removal. For a shooter needing a compact, versatile optic with premium features like AO, the BugBuster is a compelling option.
Magpul Hunter X-22 Stock for Ruger 10/22
The Magpul Hunter X-22 stock is a top-tier upgrade that fundamentally improves the fit and function of your Ruger 10/22. It is a drop-in replacement, requiring no gunsmithing for installation. The stock features a modern, ergonomic grip angle and is constructed from reinforced polymer for exceptional strength and durability.
Its most significant advantages are its adjustability. The length of pull can be modified using spacers, and the comb height is adjustable to help you achieve a perfect cheek weld with your chosen optic. With multiple sling mounting points and integrated M-LOK accessory slots, this stock turns your 10/22 into a highly configurable and professional-grade platform.
Magpul MOE X-22 Stock for Ruger 10/22
For shooters seeking the renowned Magpul quality in a lighter and more budget-conscious package, the MOE X-22 is an excellent choice. It shares the same drop-in compatibility and ergonomic grip as its Hunter counterpart but foregoes the adjustable comb to save on weight and cost. Weighing just over one pound, it significantly lightens the rifle.
This stock still offers great functionality with M-LOK slots at the 6 o’clock position for attaching lights or bipods and features Magpul’s TSP texture on the grip for a secure hold. If your priority is a lightweight, modern stock that improves ergonomics without breaking the bank, the MOE X-22 delivers outstanding value.
TANDEMKROSS Magazine Assembly Tool for Ruger 10/22
Any 10/22 owner who has tried to reassemble a Ruger rotary magazine knows it can be a frustrating task. The TANDEMKROSS Magazine Assembly Tool eliminates this headache entirely. This simple yet ingenious tool holds all the internal components in perfect alignment, making magazine reassembly a quick and effortless process.
Constructed from durable glass-filled nylon and including a necessary Allen key, this tool is built to last. It is compact and now comes with a handy carrying case, making it easy to store in your range bag. For anyone who owns multiple magazines or performs regular cleaning, this tool is an absolute essential that saves time and sanity.
Volquartsen Target Hammer and Sear Kit for Ruger 10/22
Perhaps the single most impactful upgrade for the feel of your 10/22 is a premium trigger group. The Volquartsen Target Hammer and Sear Kit is widely regarded as the gold standard for achieving a clean, crisp, and light pull. This kit replaces the factory hammer and sear, which are the primary components responsible for trigger pull weight and grit.
The result is a dramatic reduction in pull weight, often cutting it in half or more, and the elimination of the spongy feel of the factory trigger. A smooth, predictable trigger is critical for accuracy, making this upgrade a favorite among competitive shooters and enthusiasts alike. Installation is straightforward and delivers a professional-grade trigger feel.
What to Look For in Your Ruger 10/22 Upgrades
When I first started upgrading my own Ruger 10/22, I quickly learned that not all modifications are created equal. The sheer number of available parts can be overwhelming, so having a plan is key. The best approach is to think about what you want the rifle to do better. Are you looking for pure accuracy? Faster handling? Or just a more comfortable and personalized feel? Your answers will directly guide which of the 10 best Ruger 10/22 upgrades you should prioritize.
For most people, the trigger is the single most impactful upgrade. The factory trigger is functional but often heavy and gritty. A quality aftermarket trigger can dramatically improve your shooting by providing a clean, predictable break. This isn’t just about comfort; it’s about control. A better trigger helps you press the shot without disturbing the rifle’s aim, leading directly to tighter groups on target. Whether you choose a full drop-in unit or just a set of upgraded internal parts, this is an investment in your fundamental skill.
Next, consider your optic. The classic iron sights on a 10/22 are decent for plinking, but if you’re shooting at smaller targets or longer ranges, a good scope or red dot is a game-changer. For a general-purpose rifle, a low-powered variable optic (LPVO) in the 1-4x or 1-6x range is incredibly versatile. It allows for fast, both-eyes-open shooting at close ranges and provides the magnification needed to see your bullet holes at 50 to 100 yards. If most of your shooting is fast and close, a simple red dot sight is lightweight, fast, and perfectly suited for the .22 LR’s trajectory.
Finally, don’t overlook the barrel and stock. A bull barrel adds significant weight up front, which reduces muzzle rise and steadies your hold for precision work. Paired with a stock designed to free-float the barrel (meaning the stock doesn’t touch the barrel), you can improve consistency shot-to-shot. On the other hand, if you want a lightweight, handy rifle for hiking or quick shooting, a carbon fiber or lightweight tapered barrel in a minimalist stock is the way to go. Remember, the goal is to build a rifle that fits your specific needs, not just to add the most expensive parts. Start with the trigger and optic, then build out from there based on how you shoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important upgrade for a Ruger 10/22?
In my opinion, the trigger is the most important first upgrade. The factory trigger pull can be heavy and inconsistent, which directly affects your accuracy. Upgrading to a precision trigger group, or even just installing a set of aftermarket internal parts, gives you a cleaner, lighter break. This improves your control and makes the rifle more enjoyable to shoot, which in turn helps you practice more and shoot better. It’s the upgrade that pays dividends with every single shot you take.
Can I install these upgrades myself, or do I need a gunsmith?
The vast majority of Ruger 10/22 upgrades are designed for at-home installation with basic tools. The rifle’s design is simple and modular. You’ll need a set of screwdrivers, a punch set, and perhaps an armorer’s wrench for barrel changes. There are countless video tutorials online that walk you through every possible modification step-by-step. That said, if you are not comfortable working with mechanical parts, having a professional install critical components like a barrel is always a safe option.
Is it worth putting an expensive scope on a .22 rifle?
This is a common question, and the answer is a qualified yes. You don’t need a scope that costs as much as a high-power rifle optic, but investing in a quality rimfire-specific scope from a reputable brand is absolutely worth it. Cheap scopes often have poor glass clarity, fail to hold zero, and have unreliable adjustments. A good scope allows you to see your target clearly and trust that your point of aim is your point of impact, which is essential for improving your skills and getting the most out of your other 10/22 upgrades.
What is the benefit of a free-floated barrel?
A free-floated barrel is one that does not touch the stock along its length. The main benefit is consistency. When a barrel touches the stock, pressures from how you hold the rifle, using a bipod, or even changes in temperature and humidity can push on the barrel and change its harmonic vibration, slightly altering where the bullet hits. By free-floating the barrel, you isolate it from these external influences, which helps improve accuracy and makes your shots more predictable.
Will upgrading the extractor help with reliability?
Yes, absolutely. One of the most common failures with the 10/22 is a failure to eject, often caused by a weak or worn factory extractor. Installing a hardened, aftermarket extractor is a cheap and simple upgrade—often just a single part swap—that can significantly improve the rifle’s reliability, especially with a wider variety of .22 LR ammunition. It’s one of those low-cost, high-reward modifications I recommend to almost every 10/22 owner.