Let’s Talk About Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release
The Ruger 10/22 is a legendary firearm, known for its reliability and customization potential. The Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release is a seemingly small, but significant, upgrade that dramatically improves the ergonomics and speed of magazine changes. It is a must-have for any serious 10/22 owner.
I’ve spent countless hours on the range and in the field, and one constant frustration was the fiddly, recessed magazine release on my Ruger 10/22. My goal was simple: improve the speed and ease of magazine changes, especially in timed events or tactical scenarios. I needed a solution that allowed for intuitive, one-handed operation without fumbling.
Upon receiving the Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release, I was immediately impressed by its simple, yet robust design. The polymer felt solid and well-made. It was clear that this wasn’t some cheap, flimsy aftermarket part.
I considered several other aftermarket extended magazine releases, some made of aluminum, others with more aggressive texturing. However, I ultimately chose the Ruger branded release because I trusted the Ruger name and preferred the more subtle, integrated look. Also, the price point was quite attractive.
My initial impression was excitement. It felt like exactly what my 10/22 needed; a simple, effective upgrade that addressed a long-standing ergonomic issue. I couldn’t wait to install it and test it out at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at my local outdoor range during a rimfire challenge event. The weather was dry, and the temperature was in the mid-60s. I was eager to see if the extended mag release lived up to the hype.
The Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release immediately proved its worth. Magazine changes were noticeably faster and more fluid. The extended lever allowed me to easily drop magazines with my trigger finger without breaking my grip, significantly improving my reload times during the timed stages.
The improvement was so dramatic it felt like cheating. No more fumbling or awkwardly reaching for the recessed factory release. It was intuitive and efficient. No issues were experienced in this initial range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release has held up remarkably well. It’s seen several hundred magazine changes. It has been exposed to various weather conditions, from dry desert environments to humid, rainy days.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The polymer shows no signs of cracking or deformation. The finish remains intact, and the release continues to function smoothly and reliably.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and debris. Compared to the original magazine release, which always seemed to collect grime and require more effort to clean, this extended release is a breeze. It has significantly outperformed my expectations. The factory release always required excessive force, while this one is effortless.
Breaking Down the Features of Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release
Specifications
The Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release is designed for both the Ruger 10/22 rifle and the 22 Charger pistol. It’s chambered for .22 LR. The release itself is made of durable polymer.
It comes in a black color. The key features are its single finger release and ergonomic push pockets. This facilitates faster and easier magazine changes.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the usability and reliability of the 10/22 platform. The extended lever provides a larger surface area for easier actuation, even with gloved hands. The polymer construction ensures durability without adding unnecessary weight.
Performance & Functionality
The Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release performs its job exceptionally well. Magazine changes are significantly faster and more intuitive compared to the factory release. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a world of difference in terms of speed and efficiency.
The strength lies in its simplicity and ergonomic design. The weakness is the polymer construction. While durable, it may not be as robust as a metal alternative, though it has held up well in testing.
It has exceeded my expectations. I went in hoping for a small improvement. What I got was a game-changer in terms of reload speed and overall ergonomics.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple, yet effective. It seamlessly integrates with the trigger guard. It looks like it should have been there from the factory. The polymer feels solid and well-made, and the extended lever provides ample surface area for easy actuation.
It’s extremely user-friendly. The installation takes only a few minutes with basic tools. The operation is intuitive and requires no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release appears to be very durable. After months of regular use, there are no signs of significant wear and tear. The polymer is resistant to scratches and impacts.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s needed to keep it functioning properly. No special tools or cleaning solutions are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it is a standalone upgrade. However, it is compatible with a wide range of 10/22 accessories. It includes aftermarket stocks, triggers, and optics.
It works seamlessly with standard and high-capacity magazines. Its simple design ensures compatibility with virtually any 10/22 setup. It complements other upgrades like improved triggers and enhanced charging handles.
Pros and Cons of Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release
Pros
- Massively improved magazine change speed and ergonomics.
- Easy installation, even for beginners.
- Durable polymer construction that holds up to regular use.
- Seamless integration with the trigger guard for a factory-like appearance.
- Affordable price point for a significant performance upgrade.
Cons
- Polymer construction may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
- Some users may prefer a more aggressive texture on the release lever.
Who Should Buy Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release?
The Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release is perfect for competitive shooters, tactical shooters, and anyone who wants to improve the speed and efficiency of magazine changes on their 10/22. It’s a must-have upgrade for anyone who values performance and ergonomics.
Those who are satisfied with the factory magazine release and don’t mind the extra effort required for magazine changes may not need this product. Those who are seeking an ultra-durable, metal alternative may also want to consider other options.
A must-have modification is an upgraded trigger, such as the Ruger BX-Trigger, to further enhance the performance and feel of the 10/22. The combination of an extended mag release and a crisp trigger will dramatically improve the shooting experience.
Conclusion on Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release
The Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release is a simple, yet highly effective upgrade that dramatically improves the ergonomics and speed of magazine changes on the Ruger 10/22 rifle and 22 Charger pistol. It’s easy to install, durable, and affordable.
The price is absolutely justified. It offers a significant performance improvement for a relatively small investment. It is one of the best value upgrades you can make to your 10/22.
I would absolutely recommend the Ruger 10/22, 22 Charger Extended Mag Release to anyone looking to enhance the performance and usability of their 10/22. It’s a game-changer that will make your shooting experience more enjoyable and efficient. Upgrade your 10/22 today and experience the difference!