The Ruger 10/22 has been a favorite .22 caliber semi-automatic rifle for years. It is rightfully so, with the accuracy and dependability. So, what can be new, and is it an improvement? That is what we are going to discuss, using the new Scoped 10/22 model 32003.

As mentioned, this is a scoped model, which comes with a factory-mounted Viridian EOS 3-9×40 scope. It also has flip-up rear and front brass beaded sights, which can only be used if the scope is removed or has the scope mounts replaced with standup, see-through styles.

The stock is a lightweight polymer with a new feature of M-Lok slots located where the magazine inserts, which makes it easier for removal and insertion of the 10-round, rotary box magazine. It also has two mounting holes for a sling, and textured panels on the forearm and pistol grip.

One major improvement is the BX Trigger, which was an aftermarket item in the past, and available on other Ruger rifles. This trigger makes a big difference with a crisp and lightweight trigger pull of only 2.5 to 3 pounds.

Another new feature is the incorporation of a rear cleaning port in the receiver. This provides access to the barrel from the rear to provide easy cleaning. However, the only way to access this feature is to disassemble the gun, which is fairly easy. I always use an Otis Rip Cord, so this feature is not a big deal to me, unless I take the rifle apart for a complete cleaning and re-oiling.

The safety is an easy push-button crossbolt.

The magazine release is a lever located in front of the safety, which seems to be a little longer than in the past. Pushing it forward releases the magazine; if it doesn’t come out for some reason, it can be grabbed by using the previously mentioned M-Lok slots.

A match bolt release is another new feature. This allows the shooter to easily advance the bolt with a quick pull to the rear and release, which disengages the locking device without having to manually unlock it.

It comes with one 10-round magazine and is contained in a Ruger-branded hard case with a foam lining.

The model 32003, retailing for $419, has an 18.5-inch barrel, 36.5-inch overall length, and weighs 4.2 pounds. A smaller version of the scoped 10/22 is model 32001, retailing for $439, which has a 16.4-inch barrel, 34.5-inch overall length, and weighs 4 pounds.

Here’s how all of this tested out.

First was sighting in the scope. It was definitely not sighted in at the factory, but the Viridian was great. The first round was way low, and not hitting the Shoot-N-C target. After the first adjustment for elevation, it was hitting a little left of the bullseye. In a couple of more shots, and adjusting to the right for windage, it was hitting in the center and nearly blew it out with around 8 more rounds.

I fired CCI Standard 1070 fps, Browning 1200 fps, and Aguila Extra 1260 fps. All ammunition cycled perfectly. The only problem that was experienced was with the Norma Match at 1083 fps; for some reason, the rounds would not eject. This was an ammunition problem, as the rounds would stick in the chamber and be difficult to use a tool to pry them out. Everything else performed great.

The trigger pull was fantastic. I know that the crisp and lighter pull helped greatly in sighting in the scope and maintaining “on target” results. I was impressed enough that I’m thinking about getting the BX Triggers to install in all 3 of my other 10/22 rifles.

The “Match Bolt Release” was another winner. This definitely helped in loading and shooting quickly.

The rifle was fired from 10, 15, 25 and 50 yards. It was sighted in at 25 yards and hit center on all distances except 50, where it hit just above center without aiming lower. So, all in all, it was right on target.

For plinking, it was perfect. In fact, at 50 yards, I hit a AR500 knockover bottle and spun it with the edge facing me. I then took aim on the 3/8-inch edge and hit it dead on using the Browning 1200 fps. I also set up five Shooting Targets, seven Dirt Bag Knockovers, and five narrower AR500 knockover bottles; while freestanding at 25 yards, I picked them all off with 10 rounds within 10 seconds, again showing the quick target acquisition and advantage of the BX Trigger.

Installing a sling is very simple. An Allen Ruger Summit Ultralite sling is my choice for the 10/22. I have two of my other 10/22s using this same sling. It is available from dealers, Amazon, or the Ruger online store where they sell for around $24.

I know that a lot of people don’t like polymer stocks, and I also prefer wood. But the lightness and performance of this gun make you forget about it. In other words, this new Ruger Scoped 10/22 is a winner in my book.

If you want to see a video of this, go to the Dan’s Fish ‘n’ Tales/Shoot ‘n’ Plink YouTube channel at youtube.com/dansfishntales, where there are several videos on this gun, including one showing how to install the Ruger sling.