February 04, 2026
The Ruger 10/22: The Rifle Every Shooter Should Own
Photo: Simple, reliable, and endlessly versatile. The Ruger 10/22 earns its place in every safe.
Few firearms earn the kind of universal respect the Ruger 10/22 enjoys. It is not flashy. It is not tactical. And it certainly is not new. Yet for decades, this little rimfire rifle has quietly become a rite of passage for shooters of every background. If you own just one rifle, many would argue this should be it.
Introduced in 1964, the 10/22 was designed to be simple, reliable, and affordable. Ruger succeeded so well that more than half a century later, the rifle is still going strong, largely unchanged in spirit.
A Perfect Starting Point
For new shooters, the 10/22 is hard to beat. The light recoil of .22 LR makes it unintimidating, while the semi-automatic action keeps shooting smooth and enjoyable. Learning sight alignment, trigger control, and safe handling is easier when you are not fighting recoil or noise.
Parents and instructors have trusted the 10/22 for generations because it encourages good habits without punishing mistakes. At the same time, it never feels like a toy. It is a real rifle with real performance.
Reliable, Affordable, and Easy to Live With
The genius of the 10/22 lies in its balance. It is affordable enough that almost anyone can own one, yet rugged enough to last a lifetime. The rotary magazine feeds reliably, the action runs clean, and maintenance is straightforward.
Ammunition is inexpensive, which means more trigger time and less worry about cost. Whether you are plinking steel, punching paper, or teaching someone new, the 10/22 delivers consistent performance without drama.
The Most Customizable Rimfire Ever Made
If there is one rifle that proves old designs still matter, it is the 10/22. Few firearms in history have inspired a larger aftermarket. Barrels, stocks, triggers, optics mounts, and internal upgrades are everywhere. You can keep it bone stock or turn it into a precision tack driver.
That flexibility is why seasoned shooters keep coming back to it. The same rifle that taught fundamentals can grow with you, evolving as your skills and interests change.
Why It Still Belongs in Every Safe
The Ruger 10/22 is not about trends. It is about function, familiarity, and fun. It bridges generations, skill levels, and shooting styles. In a world of constant innovation, it stands as proof that a well executed design never loses relevance.
Some rifles impress you once. The 10/22 earns its place every time you pull it out of the safe.
Fun Fact: Ruger has produced well over 7 million 10/22 rifles, making it one of the most popular sporting rifles ever made.
Until next time, stay locked and loaded.
- Randy, Locked N Loaded
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