First Impressions of Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 promises an upgrade to the legendary Ruger 10/22 platform. Faxon Firearms aims to provide a drop-in ready, stainless steel bolt assembly that enhances reliability and performance. This upgrade is an appealing alternative to the factory bolt, especially for those looking to build a custom 10/22 or improve an existing rifle.
For years, I’ve tinkered with 10/22s, seeking the elusive combination of reliability and accuracy. The factory bolt, while dependable, always seemed like a potential bottleneck. I was looking for improved consistency and smoother cycling, particularly with different types of ammunition.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 was positive. The black nitride finish looks fantastic, and the stainless steel construction feels robust. It’s noticeably heavier than the factory bolt, suggesting a denser, more durable material.
I’ve used Volquartsen and Power Custom bolt assemblies in the past, and the Faxon Firearms offering seems to strike a balance between the two. The Volquartsen is known for its match-grade precision, while the Power Custom focuses on brute strength. The Faxon Firearms part aims for reliability and smooth operation, at a more attractive price point. I chose this over the others because of its promised drop-in readiness and the positive reviews regarding its enhanced performance.
I was excited to see if the Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 could deliver on its promises. The look and feel alone inspired confidence. If it performs as well as it looks, this will be a worthy upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 at my local outdoor shooting range. The test platform was a Ruger 10/22 with a Kidd barrel and trigger. I wanted to assess the bolt’s performance under different conditions with a variety of ammunition.
The weather was slightly damp, with a light drizzle and temperatures in the low 50s. I tested the bolt with CCI Mini-Mags, Federal AutoMatch, and some bulk Remington Golden Bullet. The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 dropped right into my 10/22 receiver, without needing any fitting.
The initial rounds cycled smoothly, and the ejection was consistent. I did experience a couple of failures to extract with the Remington Golden Bullet, which is common with that ammunition. However, with the CCI and Federal ammo, the bolt performed flawlessly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and approximately 1,000 rounds, the Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 continues to perform admirably. The finish shows minimal wear. I experienced no significant issues with extraction or feeding, regardless of the ammunition used.
The bolt is holding up incredibly well. I haven’t noticed any signs of chipping, cracking, or unusual wear patterns. The stainless steel construction and nitride finish are definitely contributing to its durability.
Maintaining the bolt is simple. A quick wipe-down after each range session and a more thorough cleaning every 500 rounds keeps it running smoothly. A bit of light oil on the contact surfaces ensures consistent cycling. This bolt has outperformed the factory bolt in both reliability and smoothness of operation.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Faxon Firearms.
- Color: Black.
- Material: Stainless Steel.
- Finish: Black Nitride.
- Compatibility: Ruger 10/22 and compatible clones.
- Includes: Extractor and Hardened Firing Pin.
These specifications are important because they speak to the bolt’s quality and longevity. The stainless steel construction ensures corrosion resistance. The black nitride finish enhances surface hardness and reduces friction.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 significantly improves the cycling reliability of the 10/22 platform. Extraction is more positive, and feeding is smoother compared to the factory bolt. The inclusion of a hardened firing pin reduces the chance of light strikes.
The bolt’s main strength is its improved reliability across a range of ammunition types. A minor weakness is its proprietary firing pin, limiting compatibility with some aftermarket 10/22 parts. The bolt exceeds expectations in terms of overall performance and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 is well-machined and finished. The stainless steel provides a robust feel, and the black nitride coating gives it a sleek, modern appearance. The weight is slightly heavier than the factory bolt.
The drop-in design makes installation straightforward. No gunsmithing is required. The bolt is very user-friendly. There is no learning curve associated with its operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction and black nitride finish suggest that the Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 will last for many thousands of rounds. The nitride finish adds to corrosion resistance and surface hardness. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed.
The bolt is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. Replacement extractors and firing pins are available from Faxon Firearms. The bolt seems designed for long-term reliability with minimal maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it’s compatible with most aftermarket charging handles designed for the 10/22. Due to the proprietary firing pin, standard 10/22 firing pins are not compatible.
The bolt is compatible with most 10/22 receivers and barrels. It integrates seamlessly with other common aftermarket components, such as triggers and extractors. This bolt allows for a wide range of customization options within the 10/22 platform.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22
Pros
- Improved Reliability: Cycles a wider range of ammunition with fewer failures.
- Enhanced Durability: Stainless steel construction with a black nitride finish ensures long life.
- Drop-In Ready: Easy installation with no gunsmithing required.
- Smoother Cycling: Provides a more consistent and refined shooting experience.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: Black nitride finish adds a modern look to the 10/22.
Cons
- Proprietary Firing Pin: Limits compatibility with some aftermarket firing pins.
- Slightly Higher Price: More expensive than a factory bolt, but justified by the improved quality and performance.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22?
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 is perfect for anyone looking to upgrade the reliability and performance of their Ruger 10/22. This is especially useful for competition shooters, plinkers, and small game hunters who want consistent cycling with various types of .22LR ammunition. Anyone building a custom 10/22 will also find this an essential component.
Those who are perfectly happy with the performance of their factory bolt and are unwilling to spend extra money on an upgrade should skip this product. If someone is heavily invested in aftermarket 10/22 firing pins and extractors, the proprietary firing pin design might be a drawback. A high-quality aftermarket charging handle would be a must-have to fully utilize the potential of this upgraded bolt.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 is a worthwhile upgrade for any Ruger 10/22 owner seeking improved reliability and performance. The stainless steel construction, black nitride finish, and drop-in design make it a durable and user-friendly addition to the platform. At $103.40, the price is justified by the enhanced quality and smoother cycling.
I would definitely recommend the Faxon Firearms Rimfire Bolt Assembly for 10/22 to anyone looking to elevate their 10/22 experience. Upgrade your 10/22 today and experience the difference a quality bolt assembly can make. Don’t settle for mediocre performance when you can have exceptional reliability and smooth cycling.