Building a Precision 10/22

I’m a tinkerer by nature. I think most gun people are. I can’t buy something and leave it be. Where’s the fun in that? Thankfully, the firearm industry understands this concept, and numerous companies exist solely for this purpose. So, when I look at a new gun or a new gun idea, I think of how I can optimize it for my purposes. Some of these ideas are my own, but many are sparked by something I watch on YouTube, read in a magazine, or even see on Instagram. And that’s where my latest build idea, a precision 10/22, comes from.

Earlier this year, I read an article from Outdoor Life about building a precision 10/22. The author used the MDT Oryx chassis as its base. Having spent a great deal of time behind an MDT chassis, I decided to build something like that too. And that’s where the idea spawned. And over time, it has evolved into what I have before you.

The Concept

So, in complete transparency, this isn’t my first 10/22 build. I built one ages ago using a Tactical Solutions barrel and a Magpul Hunter X-22 stock, and later, I built another using a Victor Company stock and a factory Ruger bull barrel.

So why do I need another? Well, I don’t own the other two anymore. The first build performed, but it was a bit light for what I wanted, and the second one didn’t perform as well as hoped. Do I regret selling either? Maybe the TacSol one, but I had another 10/22 Takedown outfitted with a Magpul Backpacker stock that fit the bill for a lightweight hunting 22.

Suffice it to say, I craved to build a new precision 10/22, but this time, it would be outfitted precisely how I wanted while keeping things within a mindful budget.

The Build List

This is the original build list I set out with. But after use, some things have changed, with one of those things being the trigger. The original plan for this rifle was to build an accurate 10/22 that could perform in NRL22-type competitions. However, there is a fine line between cutting costs and shaving performance. While the Ruger BX Trigger is fine, it’s not what’s needed for precision work.

Before I go into more detail about the new trigger, here is a breakdown of the build with a few thoughts about each product.          

• MDT 10/22 Oryx Chassis in ODG: This is an excellent chassis for the 10/22 platform. Compared to the others I’ve used, its ergonomics are superior, and it has modern comforts, such as the addition of an Arca rail, thumb rest, and a barricade stop.
• MDT Oryx Arca Rail: adds increased versatility to an already excellent chassis.
• Ballistic Advantage 10/22 Barrel: I’ve used BA barrels in my ARs for years, and they’ve always performed. Their 10/22-barrel offering is new and, if good, provides incredible value to the home builder.
• Tandemkross Spartan Skeletonized Charging Handle: This is another creature comfort improvement I add to all my 10/22s. The windage adjustment on an optic usually interferes with your ability to operate the charging handle without busting a knuckle.
• Tandemkross Barrel Retaining V-Block: This is a precision-cut version of the factory offering that’s 55% lighter. I’ve also added TK’s V-Block screws as well to complete the upgrade.
• TandemKross Shock Block Bolt Buffer: This is the most affordable upgrade in the entire build, and I strongly recommend it. The buffer, made of high-impact polymer, eliminates the metal-to-metal contact between the bolt and the receiver pin and reduces the vibration caused by that contact, creating a quieter and smoother operating system.
• AREA 419 10/22 Scope Base: This is a needed upgrade from the factory one shipped with 10/22s.
• Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18×44: I find the Strike Eagle line from Vortex to be one of the best optics on the market for rimfire shooters. They are competitively priced and loaded with features, including a parallax adjustment that can be reduced to rimfire ranges.

First Shots with the 10/22 Build

I took the rifle out on its maiden voyage at the Kelbly Rifle Range in North Lawrence, Ohio. Here, they have benches set up and berms at 25, 50, 100, and 200 yards. Sight in was simple, and I was easily engaging targets at the 100-yard line. Everything performed flawlessly, and groups were fine, but there was a bit more I could eek out of it.

I went back a second time to confirm my initial thoughts. And they held up. While groups with various lots of ammo ranged in the 1.2 MOA group—not bad for a 22— I knew I could do better. So I talked to my friends at Tandemkross about their Manticore Trigger assembly for the 10/22.

Upgrading the Trigger

To sum up, Tandemkross’s Manticore Trigger assembly is a high-quality, easy-to-install upgrade for the Ruger 10/22, providing improved control with a CNC-machined aluminum housing. It features an adjustable Ultimate Trigger Kit ranging from 2 to 5 lbs., an extended magazine release, rotary safety, and a larger trigger guard. On my Lyman Digital Trigger Scale, the average over 10 pulls was 2 lbs 1oz.

Pre-installed parts, such as the Fireswitch, Bolt Keeper, and Cornerstone Rotary Safety, are all designed for ambidextrous use and enhanced functionality. The Manticore enhances accuracy, safety, and user-friendliness, making it suitable for both competitive shooters and beginners. It’s also available in anodized black or red—depending on your style.

Next Shots

Again, I went back to Kelbly’s for testing. Unfortunately, the wind was gusting that day, so I limited all my testing to 50 yards instead of 100.

Between firing strings of another rifle, I tried different types of .22 LR ammunition to see what this gun prefers. I tested rounds from Wolf, Eley, and Lapua. Although the first two performed decently, their extreme spreads and standard deviations were too high. The Lapua Midas+ was exceptional by comparison, with an ES around 14 over ten shots and SDs of 4.3. Of course, it’s always the most expensive ammo.

10/22 Build Final Thoughts

Everyone should build a 10/22 rifle. They’re easy to assemble and don’t require specialized tools.

My final setup for this precision 10/22 includes the MDT Oryx chassis, a Ballistic Advantage barrel, and Tandemkross parts. All of it combined delivers impressive performance. Upgrading to a Manticore Trigger greatly improved the rifle’s feel and accuracy, offering a smoother, cleaner break that’s noticeable.

While I’m still searching for the perfect ammunition, Lapua Midas+ has become my top choice so far. Like many enthusiasts, I enjoy not just shooting but also the process of building, experimenting, and customizing the platform. This 10/22 might not be my last, but it’s currently my favorite rimfire—get out and build.