First Thoughts on the Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black
The Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black promises a lightweight and affordable upgrade for the ubiquitous Ruger 10/22. From Magpul, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the firearms accessory market, this stock aims to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your rimfire rifle. With features like M-LOK slots, enhanced grip texture, and compatibility with various barrel profiles, it seems like a versatile option for 10/22 enthusiasts. The promise of improved ergonomics and customization possibilities piqued my interest, leading me to explore if this stock truly lives up to the Magpul reputation.
I was seeking a lightweight, durable stock to replace the factory unit on my aging Ruger 10/22. The factory stock felt flimsy and lacked any real customization options. The Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black immediately stood out due to its advertised M-LOK compatibility and promise of a more ergonomic grip.
Unboxing the Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black, I was immediately struck by its lightweight feel. The polymer construction felt solid, and the texture of the TSP grip was noticeably more aggressive than the smooth factory stock. Build quality appeared excellent, with no visible molding flaws or imperfections.
Other options considered included the Hogue OverMolded stock and the Boyds Rimfire Hunter stock. The Hogue’s rubberized feel was appealing, but its lack of modularity steered me away. The Boyds stock offered a classic wood aesthetic, but the added weight and higher price made the Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black a more practical choice.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the stock felt well-made and feature-rich, I was eager to see how it performed in real-world shooting scenarios. The lightweight design and enhanced grip gave me hope for improved handling and accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted the Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black onto my Ruger 10/22 and brought a selection of .22 LR ammunition. The weather was sunny and mild, providing ideal shooting conditions.
The improved ergonomics were immediately apparent. The TSP grip offered a secure and comfortable hold, even with sweaty hands. The 13.5″ length-of-pull felt just right, promoting a more natural shooting posture.
One minor issue arose during the initial setup. While the stock included barrel trays for both standard and bull barrels, I found the bull barrel tray to be slightly too tight for my aftermarket .920″ barrel. A few minutes of careful sanding remedied the issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve taken it on multiple range trips and even a couple of small game hunts. The stock has held up well to various weather conditions, including light rain and dusty environments.
I’ve noticed no significant signs of wear and tear. The polymer construction has proven to be scratch-resistant, and the M-LOK slots remain secure even after repeated accessory attachments. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth and mild soap.
Compared to the factory stock, the Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black offers a significantly improved shooting experience. The enhanced ergonomics, modularity, and lightweight design have noticeably improved my accuracy and overall comfort. The Magpul stock has truly transformed my 10/22 from a basic plinker to a more versatile and enjoyable rifle.
Breaking Down the Features of Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black
Specifications
The Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black is specifically designed for the Ruger 10/22 platform. It weighs in at a mere 18.9 ounces, making it significantly lighter than most aftermarket stocks. The length-of-pull is fixed at 13.5 inches.
The stock features M-LOK slots at the 6 o’clock position for accessory attachment. It also includes integral sling loops on the toe and forend, compatible with Uncle Mike’s style locking sling swivels. The stock is constructed from durable polymer and features Magpul’s TSP texture on the pistol grip. It includes two interchangeable barrel trays to accommodate both factory pencil and bull barrel profiles up to 0.920″ in diameter (with a 12.5″ minimum barrel length).
These specifications are critical for several reasons. The lightweight design enhances maneuverability and reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The M-LOK slots offer versatility for mounting accessories like bipods and lights. The interchangeable barrel trays ensure compatibility with a wide range of 10/22 configurations.
Performance & Functionality
The Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black performs admirably in its intended role. The enhanced ergonomics provide a more comfortable and stable shooting platform, leading to improved accuracy. The M-LOK slots allow for easy attachment of accessories, further enhancing functionality.
The primary strength of this stock lies in its combination of lightweight design, enhanced ergonomics, and modularity. One minor weakness is the tight fit of the bull barrel tray, which may require some minor fitting. However, overall the stock meets and exceeds expectations for a budget-friendly 10/22 upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both form and function. The polymer construction is both lightweight and durable. The Magpul TSP texture on the pistol grip provides a secure and comfortable hold.
The stock is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills for installation. The drop-in design makes it a simple and straightforward upgrade for any 10/22 owner. There’s virtually no learning curve; anyone familiar with basic rifle handling will adapt to it instantly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black, made from rugged polymer, is designed for long-term use. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is remarkably simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. No special cleaning solutions or tools are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black itself doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories. However, its M-LOK compatibility opens a world of customization possibilities. Users can easily attach bipods, lights, lasers, and other accessories to the M-LOK slots.
The stock is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket 10/22 accessories, including different barrel profiles, triggers, and optics. Its compatibility with standard sling swivels provides added versatility for carrying the rifle. The ability to interchange barrel trays adds to the adaptability of the stock.
Pros and Cons of Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black
Pros
- Lightweight and durable polymer construction enhances maneuverability and resists wear.
- M-LOK slots provide versatile accessory mounting options.
- Enhanced ergonomics with Magpul’s TSP grip texture improves comfort and control.
- Affordable price makes it an accessible upgrade for any 10/22 owner.
- Easy drop-in installation requires no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills.
Cons
- Bull barrel tray may require minor fitting for some aftermarket barrels.
- Fixed length-of-pull might not be ideal for all shooters.
Who Should Buy Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black?
The Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black is perfect for Ruger 10/22 owners looking for a lightweight, durable, and affordable upgrade. It’s ideal for plinkers, small game hunters, and recreational shooters who want to improve the ergonomics and functionality of their rifles. It particularly benefits those wanting to add accessories via M-LOK slots.
Those who should skip this product are shooters requiring an adjustable length-of-pull or desiring a high-end, precision stock for competitive shooting. Also, shooters that need a heavier stock to help with recoil mitigation from higher powered rounds.
Must-have accessories or modifications would include a sling for comfortable carrying, a bipod for improved stability, and potentially a better trigger group to take full advantage of the improved ergonomics.
Conclusion on Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black
The Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black is an excellent upgrade for the Ruger 10/22, offering a compelling blend of lightweight design, enhanced ergonomics, and modularity. The $51.99 price point is well-justified considering the improved shooting experience and customization options it provides.
I would personally recommend the Magpul MOE X-22 Stock Black to any 10/22 owner looking to enhance the performance and aesthetics of their rifle. It’s a worthwhile investment that delivers tangible improvements in comfort, handling, and versatility. Upgrade your 10/22 today and experience the Magpul difference!