Ruger 10/22 Carbine 22 LR Autoloading Rifle with Hardwood Stock

I have been using Ruger firearms since 1972 when I purchased a 10/22. I currently own several Ruger rifles and handguns. I have never experienced any problems or malfunctions with any of them and always regarded them as well-made, reliable firearms. I recently gave the 10/22 that I bought in 1972 to my grandson and even after tens of thousands of rounds being fired in it, it continues to be as accurate and reliable as they day that I bought it forty-six years ago. I missed my 10/22 and decided to replace it so I ordered another one. On arrival and inspection, I was disappointed in the general lack of quality that I expected from Ruger. The use of plastic for the butt plate and barrel band was particularly disappointing. Even the letter stamping on the receiver appeared cheap. The type of magazine latch currently being used is more difficult to operate than the old type on my 1972 model. After arriving home, I disassembled and cleaned the gun. The first thing that I noticed is that the plastic barrel band has a non-captive nut securing it to the stock when it fell in the floor. I can only wonder how many have been lost and required replacement. I also wonder how long the barrel band will survive during routine disassembly/re-assembly. During re-assembly, I found it extremely difficult to get the guide rod/recoil spring assembly to seat into the bolt assembly, in spite of following the instructions provided. I also thought that the ejector was broken with the amount of play that causes it to flop around in the trigger guard assembly. It took approximately twenty minutes to re-assemble the gun and this isn't my first time re-assembling a 10/22, albeit a 1972 model.
 I am sorely disappointed in the lack of quality that I have known from Ruger in the past and saddened that they have decided to cheap out with plastic parts and un-necessary changes to a very successful product line in the 10/22. I wish that I had my old one back. Had I the opportunity to look at the new model before I ordered it, I would not have purchased it. I seriously doubt that it will be as trouble-free and last as long as my old one has, but if it does fail, I assure you that I will not replace it with another 10/22 and would recommend to others that they consider other alternatives to a 10/22.

Rifle is probably the best selling .22 rifle of all time for a good reason. Accurate right out of the box. Fit and finish is excellent. All for just $200 including tax and shipping makes this one of the best value in guns. Switched out the trigger for the Ruger BX 25 and couldn't be happier. Very smooth trigger for $68. All around a great value .22 rifle.