Ruger 10/22 .22 LR 18.5 in Birch Stock, Satin Black
About this product
What is the Ruger 10/22 .22 LR 18.5 in Birch Stock, Satin Black?
The Ruger 10/22 .22 LR 18.5" Birch Stock is a semi-automatic rimfire rifle built for reliability and precise handling, anchored by its 1:16" RH twist barrel set in a classic birch stock. Built at Ruger's American facilities, this platform has defined rimfire reliability for decades. This specific configuration delivers a 4.9 lb platform with a satin black alloy steel barrel, Ruger's tuned BX-Trigger, and a drilled and tapped receiver for immediate optic mounting.
What is the Ruger 10/22 used for?
This rifle is built for precise plinking, varmint control, and foundational marksmanship training over 50 to 100-yard distances. The 1:16" twist rate stabilizes standard and high-velocity .22 LR ammunition effectively, while the 37-inch overall length provides a stable shooting platform from bench rest or off-hand positions. For small game, the gold bead front sight offers a fast acquisition point in most wooded or field lighting conditions.
How does the Ruger 10/22 compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Ruger 10/22 is superior for low-cost, high-volume rimfire training, while the Stevens 334 .243 Win is the better tool for medium-game hunting at distances beyond 150 yards. The 10/22's .22 LR ammunition costs approximately $0.08 per round versus $1.25+ for .243 Win, making sustained practice financially feasible. However, the Stevens 334's bolt-action design and centerfire caliber deliver significantly more kinetic energy and ethical take-down power for deer-sized game.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 4.9 lb (78.4 oz) and measures 37 inches from buttplate to muzzle, with an 18.5-inch barrel. This weight distribution, with approximately 60% forward of the receiver, creates a natural forward balance that aids in steady off-hand shooting and rapid follow-up shots. The birch stock's dimensions accommodate most adult shooters, with a length of pull of approximately 13.5 inches.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for hunters needing ethical stopping power beyond 75 yards or competitors seeking a chassis-ready competition rifle out of the box. The .22 LR cartridge lacks the terminal ballistics for cleanly taking game larger than raccoons or squirrels at extended ranges. While the receiver is drilled and tapped, building a dedicated benchrest or PRS rimfire rig requires replacing the barrel, stock, and trigger—a process costing more than the rifle itself.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 10-round rotary magazine, a combination scope base adapter, and an owner's manual. Notably absent is any thread protector or muzzle device, as the barrel crown is a recessed target-style crown protected by the barrel's contour. The manual includes Ruger's detailed takedown instructions, which I recommend following verbatim for the first disassembly to avoid marring the bolt hold-open mechanism.
Is the Ruger 10/22 worth it at $279.99?
At $279.99, this rifle delivers exceptional value as a durable, accurate, and endlessly customizable foundational .22 LR platform. Compared to similarly priced bolt-action .22s, the semi-automatic action and legendary aftermarket support let you evolve the rifle as your skills grow without replacing the core receiver. For a first firearm or a dedicated training tool, like pairing with a Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge for a field training combo, the investment per round of fun or practice is nearly impossible to beat.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 4.9 lb — balances naturally for off-hand shooting stability.
- BX-Trigger breaks at a consistent 2.75 lb with positive reset — no aftermarket upgrade needed for most shooters.
- 1:16" RH twist barrel stabilizes standard velocity ammo (1050-1100 fps) within 1.25 MOA from a bench rest.
- Drilled and tapped receiver accepts optics immediately — includes a combination scope base adapter.
Trade-offs
- Non-threaded barrel — suppressor attachment requires a $120+ gunsmithing job and NFA paperwork.
- Birch stock lacks checkering or textured grip — can become slippery with damp hands or gloves.
- Fixed stock design — cannot adjust length of pull without permanent modification or replacement.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 736676320097 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 32009 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 18.50" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| model | 10/22 |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 6.6 |
| sights | Gold Bead Front/Adj Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the receiver compatible with aftermarket stocks and barrels?
- Yes, the Ruger 10/22 receiver uses a standardized V-Block barrel retention system and accepts virtually all aftermarket stocks designed for the standard 10/22 contour. For example, popular chassis systems from Magpul or Victor Company require no modification and install in under 15 minutes with basic tools.
- Does this model include a threaded barrel for a suppressor?
- No, this specific configuration features a non-threaded 18.5-inch barrel with a recessed target crown. Adding suppressor capability requires either a barrel replacement or professional threading by a qualified gunsmith, costing approximately $120-$200 plus the NFA tax stamp and wait time.
- How many rounds does the rotary magazine hold?
- The included magazine holds 10 rounds of .22 LR ammunition. Ruger also manufactures and licenses 15-round and 25-round box magazines from brands like Butler Creek, but I recommend testing feeding reliability with your chosen ammo, as the rotary design is most reliable with round-nose or truncated cone projectiles.
- Can I mount a red dot sight directly to the receiver?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped with a standard 3/8" dovetail and includes a combination base adapter for Weaver/Picatinny-style rails. Direct-mounting a micro red dot like the Vortex Venom requires a specific base plate, available from EGW or Ruger, which secures with the provided 6-48 screws.