The Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green Made a Bold First Impression
The Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green promises to transform your standard Ruger 10/22 into the ultimate compact and versatile rifle. This chassis stock from Desert Tech aims to drastically reduce the overall size and weight, making it an ideal “truck gun” or a go-anywhere companion. Its promise of enhanced ergonomics, integrated optics rail, and convenient magazine storage immediately piqued my interest.
I’ve always been a fan of the Ruger 10/22’s reliability and adaptability, but its traditional form factor can be cumbersome for certain applications. I needed a more compact and streamlined package for backpacking trips and situations where space is at a premium. The allure of the Trek-22 was its promise to solve this very problem, offering a significant reduction in size and weight while maintaining the 10/22’s legendary dependability.
Unboxing the Trek-22 revealed a well-molded chassis with a robust feel. The olive drab green matte finish gives it a tactical aesthetic that I find appealing, and the glass-reinforced polymer felt surprisingly rigid. The build quality seemed solid, with no noticeable flex or creaks, suggesting a product designed for serious use.
Compared to other 10/22 chassis systems I’ve considered, like those from PMACA or Crazy Ivan, the Trek-22 stood out for its integrated features and focus on extreme compactness. While others offer modularity and customization, the Trek-22 is all about creating the smallest possible footprint. This dedicated design philosophy is what ultimately swayed my decision.
My first impression was one of excitement mixed with a bit of skepticism. The Trek-22 certainly looked the part, but I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios and if it truly lived up to its promise of being the “ultimate truck gun”.
Real-World Testing: Putting Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green was at my local outdoor range. I wanted to evaluate its handling, accuracy, and overall feel compared to a standard 10/22. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect for a comfortable shooting session.
The reduction in size was immediately noticeable and appreciated. The Trek-22 handled incredibly well, feeling balanced and easy to manipulate, even with gloves on. Mounting a red dot optic on the integrated rail was straightforward, and I quickly zeroed it in.
The integrated straight blade trigger was surprisingly smooth and comfortable. I did notice a slight improvement in trigger pull as claimed by Desert Tech. There were no immediate issues, and the Trek-22 cycled rounds flawlessly with several different types of .22LR ammunition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green continues to impress. I’ve taken it on multiple hiking trips, used it for small game hunting, and even introduced new shooters to the platform. It has become my go-to .22 rifle for situations where portability is key.
Durability has proven to be excellent. Despite being bumped around in backpacks and exposed to the elements, the Trek-22 shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The matte finish has held up well, resisting scratches and scuffs.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the Trek-22 clean. The polymer is resistant to solvents and oils, making it easy to remove any residue from shooting or handling.
Compared to my previous experiences with other 10/22 rifles, the Trek-22 offers a superior level of portability and handling without sacrificing reliability or accuracy. It has exceeded my expectations and has become an indispensable part of my outdoor gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle (LR) – Designed to accept standard Ruger 10/22 actions and magazines.
- Weight: Significantly lighter than a standard Ruger 10/22 with a wood stock and 18″ barrel. – This reduction in weight makes it ideal for extended carry and backpacking.
- Material: Impact-resistant glass-reinforced polymer – Offers excellent durability and weather resistance.
- Optics Rail: Integrated optics rail – Allows for easy mounting of various optics, including red dots and scopes.
- Magazine Storage: Two compartments for storing two extra 10-round magazines – Provides convenient and quick access to additional ammunition.
- Trigger: Straight blade trigger, with a reduced trigger pull of 4.5 lbs (compared to the standard 6.8 lbs) – Enhances accuracy and provides a more comfortable shooting experience.
- M-Lok Attachment Points: 13 M-Lok attachment points located at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions – Allows for the attachment of accessories such as lights, lasers, and foregrips.
- Length Reduction: 10.25″ shorter than a standard Ruger 10/22 with a wood stock and 18″ barrel – Significantly improves portability and maneuverability.
- Finish: Matte Olive Drab Green – Provides a non-reflective surface and blends well in outdoor environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green excels in its primary function: transforming a standard Ruger 10/22 into a compact and highly portable rifle. Accuracy is comparable to a standard 10/22, and the enhanced ergonomics make it even easier to shoot accurately in various positions. The reduced trigger pull is a noticeable improvement, contributing to better shot control.
Its strengths lie in its compact size, light weight, and integrated features. The magazine storage is a welcome addition, providing convenient access to spare ammunition. One minor weakness is the limited compatibility with certain aftermarket 10/22 accessories that may require modification to fit the Trek-22 chassis.
Overall, the Trek-22 meets and even exceeds expectations for a compact 10/22 chassis. It delivers on its promise of enhanced portability and functionality without sacrificing reliability or accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green is excellent. The glass-reinforced polymer feels solid and durable. Its reduced weight is a significant advantage, making it comfortable to carry for extended periods.
The ergonomics are well-thought-out, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The M-Lok attachment points allow for customization to fit individual preferences. There’s a slight learning curve when disassembling the 10/22 action from the Trek-22 for cleaning, but the process is relatively straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green is built to last. The materials are robust and resistant to wear and tear. The matte finish is durable and easy to clean.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning of the 10/22 action is still necessary, but the Trek-22 chassis itself requires little attention.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green features an integrated optics rail, allowing for the mounting of various optics. The 13 M-Lok attachment points provide ample opportunity for adding accessories such as lights, lasers, foregrips, and slings.
While designed primarily for standard 10/22 magazines, it is compatible with most aftermarket magazines as well. Some modifications may be necessary when using certain aftermarket barrels or triggers, but the Trek-22 offers good compatibility with popular 10/22 accessories.
Pros and Cons of Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green
Pros
- Exceptional Compactness: Dramatically reduces the overall size of a Ruger 10/22, making it ideal for backpacking, truck guns, and situations where space is limited.
- Lightweight Design: The glass-reinforced polymer construction results in a significantly lighter rifle, enhancing portability and reducing fatigue during extended use.
- Integrated Magazine Storage: Two compartments for storing extra 10-round magazines provide convenient and quick access to additional ammunition.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: Improved handling and comfort compared to a standard 10/22, resulting in better shot control and overall shooting experience.
- Durable Construction: The impact-resistant polymer ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
Cons
- Minor Compatibility Issues: Some aftermarket 10/22 accessories may require slight modifications to fit the chassis.
- Trigger Improvement is Subtle: While the trigger pull is reduced, some users may prefer a more significant upgrade with an aftermarket trigger system.
Who Should Buy Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green?
The Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green is perfect for: backpackers and hikers who want a lightweight and compact survival rifle; survivalists seeking a reliable and easily transportable firearm; small game hunters needing a maneuverable rifle for navigating dense terrain; and anyone looking to convert their Ruger 10/22 into a more versatile and compact package.
Those who prioritize maximum customization with every imaginable accessory might find the fixed design of the Trek-22 limiting. Individuals focused on benchrest precision shooting might prefer a heavier, more stable platform.
A must-have accessory is a quality red dot optic for quick target acquisition. A comfortable sling would also enhance carry comfort during extended use.
Conclusion on Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green
The Desert Tech Trek-22, Chassis Stock, Fits Ruger 10/22, Matte Finish, Olive Drab Green is a well-designed and executed product that delivers on its promises. It transforms a standard Ruger 10/22 into a significantly more compact and portable rifle without sacrificing reliability or accuracy.
The price of $284.99 is justified by the quality of materials, thoughtful design, and integrated features. The drastic size reduction, convenient magazine storage, and improved ergonomics are well worth the investment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Desert Tech Trek-22 to anyone seeking a compact and versatile .22 rifle. It is a fantastic upgrade for any Ruger 10/22 and a valuable addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear. Transform your 10/22 into the ultimate go-anywhere rifle today!