If you’re a proud owner of the iconic Ruger 10/22 rifle, you know it’s a reliable and versatile firearm right out of the box. However, many enthusiasts find that upgrading the trigger can greatly enhance their shooting experience.
In this article, we’ll explore why you might want to replace your Ruger 10/22 trigger, what to expect from trigger assemblies, the essential factors to consider when searching for a good 10/22 trigger, and we’ll review some of the best Ruger 10/22 Triggers on the market.
Why Replace A Ruger 10/22 Trigger?
The Ruger 10/22 is a popular choice for hunting, plinking, and competitive shooting. However, the stock trigger can sometimes leave something to be desired in terms of feel, weight, and overall performance.
Upgrading your trigger can improve accuracy, reduce pull weight, and enhance your shooting experience.
What to Expect from Trigger Assemblies
When you’re considering upgrading your Ruger 10/22 trigger, it’s essential to understand the improvements you can expect from trigger assemblies. Here’s a closer look:
Improved Accuracy: A better trigger can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy. The crisp and consistent break of an upgraded trigger helps you maintain better control over your shots. You’ll experience fewer surprises when the trigger breaks, resulting in more precise and on-target shots.
Lighter Trigger Pull: One of the most noticeable changes is a reduction in trigger weight. The stock Ruger 10/22 trigger often has a heavier weight from trigger, which can affect your ability to shoot accurately, especially during rapid or precision shooting. Upgraded triggers typically have a lighter weight from trigger, making it easier to control and fire your rifle.
Crisp Break: An essential feature of an excellent complete trigger assembly is a crisp break. When you squeeze the trigger, it should release with minimal overtravel, providing you with tactile feedback and a clear indication of when the shot will be fired. This crispness enhances your shooting experience and contributes to better shot placement.
Adjustability: Many aftermarket triggers come with adjustable features, allowing you to fine-tune the trigger’s characteristics to suit your preferences. This level of customization can help you achieve the perfect trigger pull for your specific shooting style and needs.
Important Factors When Searching For a Good 10/22 Trigger
Choosing the right trigger for your Ruger 10/22 involves considering several important factors:
Single-Stage Trigger
A single-stage trigger has no discernible slack or take-up. It breaks crisply and predictably with consistent trigger weight. Shooters often prefer single-stage triggers for their simplicity and immediate shot release. This feature is especially valuable in competitive shooting, where precision and consistency are essential.
Drop-In Trigger
Drop-in triggers are designed for straightforward installation. They are a popular choice for those who want to upgrade their Ruger 10/22 without requiring the services of a gunsmith. These triggers are pre-assembled and typically come with all the necessary components, making the installation process hassle-free.
Binary Trigger
Binary triggers offer a unique shooting experience. They allow for a shot to be fired both when the trigger is pulled and released. This feature can be exciting for recreational shooting but may not be suitable for all applications. It’s essential to check local regulations and ensure that binary triggers are legal in your area before considering one.
Price
Price is a crucial consideration when selecting a complete trigger assembly for your Ruger 10/22. The cost of triggers can vary widely, so it’s essential to determine your budget before shopping.
Keep in mind that while high-end triggers may offer exceptional performance, there are also affordable options that provide significant improvements over the Ruger factory trigger. Consider your shooting needs, budget, and the specific features you require when making your choice.
Best Ruger 10/22 Triggers Reviewed
Here are some of the top Ruger 10/22 triggers available:
1. Ruger BX Trigger
The Ruger BX Trigger is a popular choice among Ruger 10/22 enthusiasts looking for a trigger upgrade their rifle’s performance. Let’s delve into the specifications, key features, pros, and cons of this trigger assembly:
Specifications:
- Type: Single-stage drop-in trigger
- Pull Weight: Approximately 2.5 to 3 pounds
- Compatibility: Compatible with all Ruger 10/22 rifles and 22 Charger pistols
Key Features:
Ease of Installation: The Ruger BX Trigger is designed as a drop-in replacement for the factory trigger, making installation a breeze. You don’t need to be a gunsmith to swap out your old trigger for this one.
Crisp Break: The BX Trigger provides a clean and crisp break, which is an essential feature for consistent and accurate shooting.
Factory Reliability: Being an official Ruger product, the BX Trigger maintains the reliability and quality associated with the Ruger brand. You can trust it to function seamlessly with your Ruger 10/22.
Pros:
- Affordability: The Ruger BX Trigger is an excellent value for the performance it offers, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
- Reliability: Since it’s a Ruger product, you can expect high-quality craftsmanship and durability from the BX Trigger.
- Ease of Installation: The BX Trigger comes with a drop-in design means you won’t need specialized tools or skills to install it.
- Improved Trigger Pull: It reduces the stock trigger pull weight and enhances the overall shooting experience.
Cons:
- Limited Adjustability: Unlike some aftermarket triggers, the BX Trigger lacks the extensive adjustability options for trigger pull weight and take-up.
- Not Ideal for Precision Shooting: While the BX Trigger is an improvement over the stock trigger, serious precision shooters may prefer a trigger with a lighter trigger weight and more adjustability.
Final Verdict:
The Ruger BX Trigger is an excellent choice for Ruger 10/22 owners looking for a simple and cost-effective trigger upgrade. It offers a noticeable improvement in trigger pull weight and break quality over the stock trigger.
Its easy installation and Ruger’s reputation for reliability make it a solid option for those who want an enhanced shooting experience without breaking the bank.
However, if you’re a precision shooter or demand more extensive adjustability, you may want to explore higher-end trigger options.
For most recreational and general shooting purposes, the Ruger BX Trigger is a dependable and worthwhile trigger upgrade that will make your Ruger 10/22 even more enjoyable to shoot.
2. Powder River Precision Ruger 10/22 Trigger
When it comes to enhancing the performance of your Ruger 10/22, the Powder River Precision Ruger 10/22 Trigger is a popular choice.
Specifications:
- Type: Single-stage drop-in trigger
- Pull Weight: Adjustable from approximately 2.5 to 3.5 pounds
- Compatibility: Designed for Ruger 10/22 rifles
Key Features:
Adjustable trigger Weight: One of the standout features of the Powder River Precision trigger is its adjustable weight. You can fine-tune the trigger to your preferred level, allowing for a customized shooting experience.
Crisp Break: This trigger is known for its clean and crisp break, providing excellent feedback to the shooter and contributing to precise shot placement.
Ease of Installation: As a drop-in trigger, it’s relatively straightforward to install, eliminating the need for gunsmithing skills.
Pros:
- Customizable Trigger Weight: The ability to adjust the trigger pull weight to your liking is a significant advantage, catering to a wide range of shooting preferences.
- Enhanced Accuracy: The crisp break and reduced weight contribute to improved accuracy and consistency in your shots.
- Quality Construction: Powder River Precision is well-regarded for its quality craftsmanship, ensuring durability and reliability.
- Easy Installation: Even shooters with minimal technical experience can install this trigger with ease.
Cons:
- Price: While not overly expensive, it falls into the mid-range price category, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- May Require Fine-Tuning: Some users might find that a bit of fine-tuning is needed to achieve their desired trigger feel, which can take some time and experimentation.
Final Verdict:
The Powder River Precision Ruger 10/22 Trigger is an excellent choice for Ruger 10/22 owners seeking a trigger upgrade that offers both performance and adjustability.
Its adjustable weight from trigger makes it stand out, allowing shooters to fine-tune the trigger to their exact preferences.
The crisp break and ease of installation further enhance the overall shooting experience.
While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the price is reasonable considering the level of customization and quality construction it offers.
If you value accuracy and want to optimize your Ruger 10/22’s trigger for your specific shooting style, the Powder River Precision trigger is a worthy investment.
Whether you’re a casual shooter or a competitive marksman, this trigger can elevate your shooting game and help you hit your target with precision and consistency.
3. CMC Ruger 10/22 Match Grade Trigger
For those seeking top-tier precision and performance in their Ruger 10/22, the CMC Ruger 10/22 Match Grade Trigger is a standout choice.
Specifications:
- Type: Single-stage drop-in trigger
- Pull Weight: Adjustable from approximately 1.5 to 3.5 pounds
- Compatibility: Designed for Ruger 10/22 rifles
Key Features:
Adjustable Trigger Weight: The CMC Match Grade Trigger shines with its adjustable weight, allowing you to tailor the trigger’s feel to your exact preferences, whether you prefer a lighter pull for precision shooting or a slightly heavier one for other applications.
Crisp Break: This trigger is known for its incredibly crisp and clean break. The break is both tactile and audible, providing immediate feedback to the shooter.
Minimal Take-Up and Overtravel: The trigger boasts minimal take-up and overtravel, reducing wasted motion and promoting shot-to-shot consistency.
Pros:
- Precise Accuracy: The CMC Match Grade Trigger is designed for precision shooting, making it ideal for competitive marksmen and those seeking the highest level of accuracy.
- Customizable: Its adjustable trigger weight allows you to fine-tune the trigger to your specific needs, whether for target shooting or hunting.
- Exceptional Build Quality: CMC is renowned for its quality craftsmanship, ensuring the trigger’s durability and reliability under various shooting conditions.Easy Installation: Like most drop-in triggers, it’s relatively easy to install, eliminating the need for extensive gunsmithing skills.
Cons:
- Price: This trigger is on the higher end of the price spectrum. While it offers exceptional performance, it might be outside the budget of some shooters.
- Overkill for Some Applications: If you’re primarily engaged in casual plinking or hunting, the CMC Match Grade Trigger’s precision might be more than you need.
Final Verdict:
The CMC Ruger 10/22 Match Grade Trigger is a superb choice for Ruger 10/22 owners who demand the utmost in precision and performance.
Its adjustable trigger weight, combined with an incredibly crisp break and minimal take-up, provides a shooting experience that’s second to none.
While it is an investment, its price is justified for those serious about precision shooting or competitive marksmanship.
If you’re looking to squeeze every ounce of accuracy out of your Ruger 10/22, this trigger is well worth considering.
However, if you’re a casual shooter or primarily use your 10/22 for plinking or hunting, you may find that less expensive triggers offer adequate performance for your needs.
In conclusion, the CMC Match Grade Trigger is a top-tier option for those who prioritize precision and are willing to invest in the best possible trigger for their Ruger 10/22.
4. JARD 10/22 Ultra Match
For shooters who demand the highest level of precision and performance in their Ruger 10/22, the JARD Ruger 10/22 Ultra Match Trigger is a top-notch option.
Specifications:
- Type: Single-stage drop-in trigger
- Pull Weight: Adjustable from approximately 1.5 to 4 pounds
- Compatibility: Designed for Ruger 10/22 rifles
Key Features:
Adjustable Trigger Weight: The JARD Ultra Match Trigger offers an impressive range of trigger weight adjustment, allowing you to fine-tune it precisely to your shooting preferences.
Crisp Break: This trigger is renowned for its exceptionally crisp and clean break, providing immediate feedback to the shooter and contributing to precise shot placement.
Minimal Take-Up and Overtravel: The trigger is designed with minimal take-up and overtravel, reducing wasted motion and enhancing shot-to-shot consistency.
Pros:
- Unparalleled Precision: The JARD Ultra Match Trigger is specifically designed for precision shooting, making it an ideal choice for competitive marksmen and those who prioritize accuracy above all else.
- Customizable: Its wide trigger weight adjustment range ensures that you can tailor the trigger’s feel precisely to your needs, whether for long-range target shooting or other applications.
- Superior Build Quality: JARD is known for its exceptional craftsmanship, ensuring that the trigger is built to withstand the rigors of various shooting conditions.
- Ease of Installation: Like most drop-in triggers, it is relatively easy to install, eliminating the need for extensive gunsmithing skills.
Cons:
- Price: The JARD Ultra Match Trigger is positioned at the higher end of the price range. While it offers superb performance, it may be beyond the budget of some shooters.
- Overkill for Some Applications: If your Ruger 10/22 is primarily used for casual plinking or hunting, the precision and adjustability of this trigger may be more than you require.
Final Verdict:
The JARD Ruger 10/22 Ultra Match Trigger is a top-tier choice for Ruger 10/22 owners who demand uncompromising precision and performance.
With its wide trigger weight adjustment range, exceptionally crisp break, and minimal take-up, it delivers a shooting experience that’s hard to beat.
While it commands a higher price, it’s well-justified for those serious about precision shooting or competitive marksmanship. If you’re dedicated to squeezing every ounce of accuracy out of your Ruger 10/22, this trigger is an excellent investment.
However, for shooters whose Ruger 10/22 sees more casual use, such as plinking or hunting, less expensive triggers may provide sufficient performance.
In summary, the JARD Ultra Match Trigger is an exceptional choice for precision-oriented shooters who are willing to invest in the best possible trigger for their Ruger 10/22.
5. Timney Replacement Assembly
The Timney Trigger Assembly for the Ruger 10/22 is a well-regarded option among those seeking an enhanced trigger for their rifle.
Specifications:
- Type: Single-stage drop-in trigger assembly
- Pull Weight: Typically set at approximately 2.5 to 3 pounds
- Compatibility: Designed for Ruger 10/22 rifles
- Extended Magazine Release
Key Features:
Ease of Installation: The Timney Replacement Trigger Assembly is designed as a drop-in unit, making installation straightforward and accessible even for those with minimal gunsmithing experience.
Crisp Break: This trigger assembly is known for its clean and crisp trigger break, offering a satisfying tactile feel and minimal overtravel.
Reduced and Consistent Trigger Pull Weight: Compared to the stock Ruger 10/22 trigger, the Timney trigger assembly typically features a lighter trigger weight, contributing to improved shooting accuracy.
Pros:
- Enhanced Performance: The Timney trigger assembly offers a noticeable improvement in trigger performance over the Ruger factory trigger, resulting in better shot placement and overall shooting satisfaction.
- Reliable Brand: Timney is well-regarded for producing high-quality triggers, ensuring reliability and longevity of this trigger assembly.
- Simplicity: Its drop-in design of this trigger assembly means you won’t need specialized tools or skills for installation.
Cons:
- Limited Adjustability: While it offers improved performance, it may not provide the same level of adjustability in terms of pull weight as some other aftermarket triggers.
- Price: While the Timney trigger assembly is not excessively expensive, it’s not the most budget-friendly option either.
- Extended Magazine Release: Sticks out far enough that it’s easy to bump it accidentally and end up dropping your magazine to the ground, but is actually pretty nice when used on the range.
Final Verdict:
The Timney Replacement Assembly for the Ruger 10/22 is a solid choice for those looking to upgrade their rifle’s trigger without extensive modifications. Its crisp break and reduced pull weight contribute to enhanced shooting performance.
For shooters who seek an improved shooting experience without delving into the highest price range, this assembly is a dependable option.
While it may not offer the same level of pull weight adjustability as some other triggers, it still provides a significant improvement over the stock trigger.
If you’re a recreational shooter or a hunter looking to boost the performance of your Ruger 10/22, the Timney Replacement Assembly is a reliable and effective choice.
6. Volquartsen TG2000 Trigger Group for Ruger 10/22
The Volquartsen TG2000 Trigger Group is a high-performance option designed to elevate the shooting experience for Ruger 10/22 owners.
Specifications:
- Type: Complete trigger group replacement
- Pull Weight: Typically set at approximately 2.25 to 2.5 pounds
- Compatibility: Designed for Ruger 10/22 rifles
- Auto bolt release
- Extended magazine release
Key Features:
Complete Trigger Group Replacement: The Volquartsen TG2000 Trigger Group replaces the entire trigger group of your Ruger 10/22, offering a comprehensive upgrade.
Enhanced Performance: This trigger group is engineered for precision, providing a crisp trigger break, minimal overtravel, and reduced + consistent trigger pull weight.
Drop-In Design: Despite being a complete trigger group, it is designed for easy installation, eliminating the need for extensive gunsmithing.
Pros:
- Exceptional Precision: The TG2000 Trigger Group is designed for shooters who prioritize accuracy and consistency, making it an excellent choice for competitive shooting and precision applications.
- Complete Solution: It replaces the entire trigger group, ensuring that every component is optimized for performance.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Volquartsen is known for its high-quality manufacturing, guaranteeing the trigger group’s reliability and durability.
- Auto bolt release: Allows you just pull back slightly on the bolt to have the same effect, similar to the way a charging handle works.
Cons:
- Price: It falls into the higher price range among 10/22 trigger options, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Overkill for Some Shooters: Shooters engaged in casual plinking or hunting may find the precision of the TG2000 Trigger Group more than they require.
- Extended magazine release: Sticks out far enough that it’s easy to bump it accidentally and end up dropping your magazine to the ground, but is actually pretty nice when used on the range.
Final Verdict:
The Volquartsen TG2000 Trigger Group is a top-tier choice for Ruger 10/22 owners who demand unparalleled precision and performance.
This complete trigger group replacement offers a crisp and precise trigger breaks, minimal overtravel, and reduced + smooth trigger pull weight, making it an ideal choice for competitive shooting and precision applications.
While it commands a higher price, it is a worthwhile investment for those serious about accuracy.
If you’re committed to achieving the highest level of precision with your Ruger 10/22, the TG2000 Trigger Group is an excellent choice. However, for shooters who engage in more casual shooting activities, there are more budget-friendly options available that may suit your needs.
Conclusion
Upgrading the trigger on your Ruger 10/22 can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you’re a competitive marksman, a hunter, or a recreational shooter. Here’s a summary of the key takeaways from our exploration of the best Ruger 10/22 triggers:
Improved Performance: Aftermarket triggers offer improved accuracy, reduced + crisp trigger pull weight, and a crisp break, leading to better shot placement and overall shooting satisfaction.
Options for Every Budget: There’s a wide range of triggers available to suit various budgets and shooting preferences, from affordable drop-in triggers to high-end precision options.
Consider Your Needs: When selecting a trigger, consider your shooting style, whether you prioritize precision, customization, or affordability, and choose accordingly.
Installation: Most triggers featured in this article are designed as drop-in replacements, making installation accessible to a wide range of shooters. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a gunsmith if you’re unsure about installation.
Legality: Ensure that any trigger modification or replacement you choose complies with local, state, and federal laws and regulations. Binary triggers, for example, may have specific legal restrictions in certain areas.
In the end, the best Ruger 10/22 trigger for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Whether you opt for a reliable and budget-friendly option like the Ruger BX Trigger, a customizable choice like the Powder River Precision Ruger 10/22 Trigger, or a precision-focused trigger like the CMC or JARD options, your Ruger 10/22 can be transformed into a more accurate and enjoyable firearm.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Ruger 10/22 triggers:
Are aftermarket triggers difficult to install?
Most aftermarket triggers are designed as drop-in replacements, making installation relatively straightforward. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it’s advisable to consult with a gunsmith for proper installation.
What’s the best trigger for precision shooting with a 10/22?
Triggers like the CMC Ruger 10/22 Match Grade Trigger and the JARD Ruger 10/22 Ultra Match Trigger are excellent choices for precision shooting due to their adjustable pull weights and crisp breaks.
Do I need to check my local laws before installing a new trigger?
Yes, it’s crucial to ensure that any trigger modification or replacement you choose complies with local, state, and federal laws and regulations. Certain trigger types, such as binary triggers, may have specific legal restrictions in certain areas.
Is it worth upgrading the trigger on my Ruger 10/22 for casual plinking?
While not essential, upgrading the trigger can still enhance your plinking experience by providing a smoother and more enjoyable trigger pull. However, for casual use, you may not need the highest precision triggers available and can opt for more budget-friendly options.