Ruger introduces 10/22 Takedown with Mapgul stock as standard

The Ruger 10/22 Takedown is a useful, clever rifle, but it could use a better stock. Ruger sees that, and is now offering the Magpul X22 Backpacker stock as a factory configuration for its survival-style .22.

The Ruger 10/22 is the most popular .22 LR rifle in the world, selling more than five million since its 1964 debut. Ruger builds many configurations of the 10/22, including the Takedown model introduced in 2012. This rifle handily breaks down into two pieces, allowing for compact storage and transportation.

Previous one-piece aftermarket stocks weren't going to work with the new takedown design. Magpul saw an opportunity and introduced new two-piece stocks, including the X-22 Backpacker, built from reinforced polymer. Along with modern aesthetics and ergonomics, the X22 Backpacker has some practical advantages over Ruger's factory takedown stock. The X22 Backpacker has multiple QD swivel attachment points, and storage compartments for tools and three spare magazines. It separates into two pieces with the press of a button. Once broken down, the X22 Backpacker's forend snaps into place on the stock This keeps the rifle's receiver and barrel bundled together for storage in a carry case without them banging around inside. That's handy, if you don't want to beat up your rifle while backpacking or ATVing.

Improved design

It's a clever design, and shooters immediately saw the advantages of the Magpul stock. Ruger did too, apparently, because it's now offering the X22 Backpacker as a factory configuration. This means buyers won't face extra expense and hassle modifying their new Takedown rimfire.

Magpul produces the X22 Backpacker in different colours, but the Ruger factory only offers the Stealth Gray option. This version of the 10/22 Takedown comes with a 16.4-inch stainless steel barrel, with muzzle threaded from the factory. Fibre optic iron sights are standard. According to Ruger's website, it also comes with four 10-round BX-1 magazines.

Ruger's US website has a pricey $529.00 MSRP for the Magpul-equipped Backpacker. That sounds a tad high. However, the standard stainless steel Backpacker has a $439 MSRP in the US. The X22 Backpacker stock sells for about $105 in that market, so this would save US buyers a few bucks. Converting it all to Canadian dollars, we'd be surprised to see this rifle available here for less than $750, considering the standard takedown model sells around $640.