Description
The Ruger 10/22 Light Varmint 22LR 20″ Barrel Blue Receiver 10 Rd Mag is a purpose-built rimfire rifle designed for small game hunting and pest control. It’s a Ruger 10/22 variant featuring a longer, heavier 20-inch barrel for improved accuracy and a classic blue steel finish, making it a reliable and affordable tool for the field.
I’ve put thousands of rounds through various 10/22s over the years, and this Light Varmint configuration is one of my favorites for a specific job. Here’s the thing—it’s not a fancy target model, but it’s a workhorse that gets the job done on squirrels, rabbits, and other small pests with a level of precision that outshines the standard carbine. At $405.51, it represents a solid value for a dedicated hunting rifle.
Key Features
- 20-inch heavy-contour barrel for enhanced stability and accuracy.
- Classic blue steel finish on both barrel and receiver for durable, traditional looks.
- Includes a 10-round rotary magazine, known for its reliable feeding.
- Based on the legendary Ruger 10/22 action, renowned for its simplicity and aftermarket support.
- Stock is designed to accommodate the heavier barrel profile for a balanced feel.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Finish | Blued Steel |
| Overall Length | Approx. 40 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
The rifle ships with one 10-round rotary magazine, which is a hallmark of the 10/22 system. That weight of about six and a half pounds comes from the barrel, and it’s a feature, not a bug—it soaks up vibration and makes for a steadier hold, especially when you’re taking a careful shot offhand. The action is the same proven design, meaning a vast universe of aftermarket triggers, stocks, and accessories from brands like Volquartsen or Magpul are compatible if you ever want to customize. It’s drop-in ready for most popular upgrades, which is a huge plus.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is built for the hunter. If you spend your mornings in the Missouri woods after squirrels or need a quiet, effective tool for managing pests around the property, this is your firearm. It’s also a fantastic first rifle for a new hunter due to its manageable recoil and operating cost. The longer sight radius of the 20-inch barrel makes it great for learning fundamentals with iron sights, though it’s also drilled and tapped for a scope mount. It’s not the best choice for a backpacking gun where ounces matter, but for stationary or slow-stalking hunting, it excels.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The accuracy potential is significantly better than an 18.5″ carbine. The Ruger 10/22 platform is famously reliable and easy to maintain. The aftermarket support is virtually unlimited—you can build a completely custom rifle around this receiver. The price point is very competitive for a dedicated varmint barrel.
Cons: The heavier barrel makes it less handy for quick snap shots in thick brush compared to the carbine. The classic blued finish, while handsome, requires more care to prevent rust than a modern synthetic/stainless option. You might find yourself wanting to upgrade the trigger down the line, as the factory unit is serviceable but not exceptional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor or muzzle device?
A: No, this specific Light Varmint model typically comes with a crowned, non-threaded muzzle. If you want a threaded barrel, you’d need to look at the “Tactical” models or have a gunsmith thread this one.
Q: What type of optics mount does it use?
A: The receiver is drilled and tapped with the standard 3/8″ dovetail for rimfire scope rings. No separate base is needed for most rimfire scopes—you just attach the rings directly to the receiver. It also comes with a factory-installed rear sight.
Q: Can I use 25-round magazines in this rifle?
A: Absolutely. It accepts all standard Ruger BX-1 (10-round) and BX-25 (25-round) magazines, as well as many aftermarket options. The 10-rounder it comes with is just the most compact and reliable for hunting.
Look, if you need a no-nonsense .22 for hunting that offers more precision than the basic carbine without breaking the bank, the Ruger 10/22 Light Varmint is a compelling choice. It’s a straightforward, effective tool that benefits from decades of refinement. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. Check current availability on our site.
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