First Thoughts on the Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK
The Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK stock promises to enhance the ergonomics and aesthetics of an already popular rifle. Hogue is known for their rubber overmolded stocks, providing a comfortable and secure grip in various conditions. This particular model is designed specifically for the Ruger 10/22 Takedown, offering a potential upgrade over the factory stock.
I was looking for a stock that could improve my grip and handling of my 10/22 Takedown, especially in wet conditions. The original polymer stock felt a little slick, and I wanted something that offered a more confident hold. I was hoping the Hogue stock would provide that enhanced grip and improve my overall shooting experience.
Upon unboxing, the Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK felt solid and well-made. The rubber overmolding was immediately noticeable, providing a tactile and grippy surface. The black color gives it a tactical look, which I appreciated.
Compared to the Magpul Hunter X-22 Takedown and the Boyd’s At-One stock, I chose the Hogue for its simplicity and reputation for excellent grip. The Magpul offered more adjustability, but I preferred the Hogue‘s slimmer profile and the promise of superior grip. The Boyd’s stock, while beautiful, was more expensive and less focused on practical, all-weather use.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It looked and felt great in my hands, but I was aware of the potential fitment issues reported by other users. I was excited to see if it would live up to the Hogue reputation and provide the improved handling I was looking for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK at my local shooting range, both indoors and outdoors. The weather was mild, but there was a light drizzle during the outdoor session. I wanted to see how the stock performed under slightly challenging conditions.
The grip was immediately noticeable; even with damp hands, the rubber overmolding provided a secure and comfortable hold. Shouldering the rifle felt natural, and the length of pull seemed appropriate for my frame. However, I immediately noticed the reported fitment issues – the receiver had noticeable play within the stock.
After the first use, I was somewhat disappointed with the fitment issue. The stock itself felt fantastic, but the loose receiver detracted from the overall experience. The initial accuracy was also slightly worse than with the factory stock, likely due to the movement of the receiver.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a small game hunting trip and multiple range sessions, the Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK has held up well in terms of durability. The rubber overmolding shows no signs of wear, and the stock material seems resistant to scratches and dings. I did implement the “tape fix” in the receiver area to address the fitment issue.
The stock is easy to clean with just a damp cloth, and the rubber overmolding doesn’t seem to attract dirt or grime. Once the tape fix was implemented, the accuracy improved and became comparable to the factory stock. Without the fix, the accuracy suffered significantly.
Compared to my previous experiences with the factory stock, the Hogue offers a vastly superior grip and overall feel after the fitment issue was addressed. Before the fix, the factory stock was a more reliable choice due to its consistent accuracy. The Hogue has the potential to be a significant upgrade, but it requires some user intervention to reach its full potential.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK is specifically designed for the Ruger 10/22 Takedown rifle with a standard barrel profile. It weighs 2.38 lbs, offering a slight weight increase over the factory stock. The length of pull (LOP) is 14 inches, suitable for most adult shooters.
The stock features a drop at heel of 1 inch below the centerline of the barrel, influencing cheek weld and sight alignment. The lowest part of the comb is 1/8 inch below the centerline, and the highest part (at the rear) is 1/8 inch above the centerline. The stock channel measures .909 inches at the receiver and .682 inches at the tip of the fore-end. The butt pad has a hard plastic heel to aid in shouldering.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the ergonomics and handling of the rifle. The 14-inch LOP and drop at heel contribute to a comfortable and natural shooting position. The rubber overmolding and butt pad enhance grip and recoil absorption. However, the fitment issue at the receiver significantly impacts the stock’s ability to deliver on its intended benefits.
Performance & Functionality
Once the receiver fitment issue is resolved with a user-implemented fix, the Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK performs admirably. The enhanced grip provides superior control, especially in wet or slippery conditions. The stock’s overall design contributes to a more stable and comfortable shooting platform.
The stock’s primary strength is its exceptional grip and improved ergonomics compared to the factory stock after the fit issue is addressed. The main weakness is the unacceptable fitment issue that necessitates user modification for optimal performance. While the design is generally well-executed, the loose receiver fit undermines the entire product.
With the “tape fix” applied, the Hogue stock exceeds expectations for grip and comfort, but the need for modification to reach that point is a major disappointment. The stock has the potential to be a fantastic upgrade, but the initial experience is marred by the fitment problem.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK is made from a durable synthetic material with a rubber overmolding. The rubber provides an excellent grip, even when wet. The stock weighs 2.38 lbs, which adds a bit of heft to the rifle but also contributes to stability.
The stock is generally user-friendly, but the initial installation can be frustrating due to the loose receiver fit. The length of pull and comb height are well-suited for most adult shooters, providing a comfortable and natural shooting position. The hard plastic heel on the butt pad aids in shouldering the rifle quickly and efficiently.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK is built to last, using durable materials that can withstand rough handling and exposure to the elements. The rubber overmolding is resistant to wear and tear, and the synthetic material is impervious to moisture and chemicals.
The stock is easy to maintain with just a damp cloth, and the rubber overmolding doesn’t require any special treatment. The simple design minimizes the number of crevices where dirt and grime can accumulate. Overall, the stock is designed for long-term durability and ease of maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK does not come with any additional accessories beyond the stock itself. Customization options are limited to what can be attached to the rifle itself, such as optics, slings, and bipods. The stock does not have any integrated mounting points for accessories.
The stock is compatible with any standard Ruger 10/22 Takedown accessories, such as aftermarket triggers, charging handles, and scope mounts. The standard barrel channel accepts most standard-profile 10/22 barrels. The lack of integrated accessory mounting points may be a drawback for some users, but it keeps the stock lightweight and streamlined.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK
Pros
- Superior grip thanks to the rubber overmolding.
- Enhanced ergonomics and comfortable shooting position (after fitment fix).
- Durable construction and weather-resistant materials.
- Relatively lightweight for a stock with rubber overmolding.
- Tactical and appealing aesthetics.
Cons
- Significant fitment issues at the receiver requiring user modification.
- Reduced accuracy if fitment issue is not addressed.
- Lack of integrated accessory mounting points.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK?
The Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK is perfect for shooters who prioritize grip and comfort, especially in adverse weather conditions. It’s suitable for small game hunters, plinkers, and tactical shooters who are willing to address the fitment issue with a simple modification. Those who appreciate a tactical aesthetic will also find this stock appealing.
This product should be skipped by those who demand perfect out-of-the-box performance and are unwilling to perform any modifications. Shooters who require numerous accessory mounting points may also find this stock lacking. If a perfect fit is paramount, other stock options may be more suitable.
A must-have modification is some form of shim (tape, bedding compound, etc.) to tighten the receiver fit within the stock. A quality sling can also enhance the rifle’s usability and carry comfort.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK
The Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK offers a significant improvement in grip and ergonomics over the factory Ruger 10/22 Takedown stock once the fitment issues are resolved. The rubber overmolding provides a secure and comfortable hold, especially in wet conditions. The durability and weather resistance of the materials ensure long-lasting performance.
The price of $93.46 is reasonable for a stock of this quality if it fit correctly out of the box. The need for user modification to address the fitment issue detracts from the overall value proposition. While the “tape fix” is a simple solution, it’s unacceptable for a product at this price point.
I would cautiously recommend the Hogue Ruger 10/22 STD BBL Takedown BLK to those who are aware of the potential fitment issue and are willing to address it. If you’re seeking a simple, out-of-the-box upgrade, this may not be the right choice. However, if you’re willing to put in a little extra effort, the improved grip and ergonomics make it a worthwhile upgrade. Consider your tolerance for DIY fixes before making a purchase.