Editor's Note: Basement Build is a new series where Inside MDT Writer Cory Ross takes us through his precision rifle builds!
I previously wrote an article about a 300 BLK fun gun (and the hardship of being a Browns fan). That was fun, but I thought it would be better to turn the fun gun concept into an ongoing series rather than rehashing it every time I write about a build. This way, there is universe continuity (looking at you, MCU). So, I present to you the Basement Build Series. In this series, I will literally build a gun in my basement (I will have you know I own the basement and do not live in the basement at my parents' house!). I will also spec out each build with links and discuss the necessary tools for each project. None of this requires mills or lathes, and you don't need a background in CAD. All of this can be done at home with common gunsmithing tools.
THE CONCEPT
I'm a tinkerer by nature. I think most gun people are. I can't buy something and leave it be. Where's the fun in that? Thankfully, the firearm industry understands this concept, and there are loads of companies that exist solely for this purpose (I mean, you are reading this on MDT's website, a company that exists for people like us). So, when I look at a new gun or a new gun idea, I think of how I can optimize it for my purposes. Some of these ideas are my own, but many are sparked by something I watch on YouTube, read in a magazine, or even see on Instagram. And that's where my latest build idea comes from. I wanted to build a 10/22 into a precision rimfire rifle. I read an article about customizing a 10/22 from Outdoor Life. And that led to a desire to build one for myself.
So, in full transparency, this isn't my first 10/22 build. I built one ages ago using a Tactical Solutions barrel and a Magpul Hunter X-22 stock, and then a little later, I built one using a Victor Company stock and a factory Ruger bull barrel. So why do I need another? Well, I don't own the other two anymore. The first build performed, but it was a bit light for what I wanted, and the second one didn't perform as well as hoped. Do I regret selling either? Maybe the TacSol one, but I had another 10/22 Takedown outfitted with a Magpul Backpacker stock that fit the bill for a lightweight hunting 22. Suffice it to say, I craved to build a new precision 10/22, but this time, it would be outfitted precisely how I wanted while keeping things within a mindful budget.
THE BUILD LIST
Here is a list of all the components I used. I'll add my thoughts after each link.
- MDT 10/22 Oryx Chassis in ODG: This is an excellent chassis for the 10/22 platform. Compared to the others I've used, its ergonomics are superior, and it has modern comforts, such as the addition of an Arca rail, thumb rest, and a barricade stop.
- MDT Oryx Arca Rail: adds increased versatility to an already excellent chassis.
- Ballistic Advantage 10/22 Barrel: I've used BA barrels in my ARs for years, and they've always performed. Their 10/22-barrel offering is new and, if good, provides incredible value to the home builder.
- Ruger BX Trigger: This is a factory upgrade over the standard 10/22 trigger. The factory trigger might be suitable for back porch plinking, but it doesn't do much for precision work. The BX trigger is a decent update, with a consistent trigger pull of around 2.5 lbs. Is it the best? No. But it offers a markable improvement over the standard option and is affordable.
- Tactical Solution 10/22 Magazine Release: This might be the most common update. Reaching the 10/22s mag release is impossible without breaking your grip, but this extended version makes it easy to operate with your trigger finger.
- Tandemkross Spartan Skeletonized Charging Handle: This is another creature comfort improvement I add to all my 10/22s. The windage adjustment on an optic usually interferes with your ability to operate the charging handle without busting a knuckle. An extended one is almost a requirement for the 10/22 platform.
- Tandemkross Barrel Retaining V-Block: This is a precision-cut version of the factory offering that's 55% lighter. I've also added TKs V-Block screws as well to complete the upgrade.
- Tandemkross Shock Block Bolt Buffer: This is the most affordable upgrade in the entire build and one I strongly recommend. The buffer, made of high-impact polymer, eliminates the metal-to-metal contact between the bolt and the receiver pin and reduces the vibration caused by that contact, creating a quieter and smoother operating system.
- AREA 419 10/22 Scope Base: This is a needed upgrade from the factory one shipped with 10/22s.
All of the tools and ancillary components needed for the build.
THE BUILD
10/22s are easy to work on and only require a punch, a few Allen wrenches, a rubber mallet, and a vice. The first step is tearing everything down. This requires removing one action screw, separating the action from the stock (make sure the safety is in the "middle" position), punching out two pins holding the trigger group to the action, and finally, removing two screws holding the barrel in place. (See, it's not that bad!). Sometimes, the barrel needs a bit of persuasion—hence the rubber mallet—a couple raps with it, and the barrel is free.
At this point, your build bench is a hodgepodge of parts. But as easy as it was to take apart, it is to put back together. I went a couple of extra steps and knocked out the rear buffer pin (which I would replace) to access the 10/22 bolt. Here, I wedged a flat-head screwdriver under the bolt to create leverage to lift the bolt and remove the factory charging handle. Before adding the replacement, I oiled the spring with CLP from Pro Shot and slid it under the bolt. The spring on the new one was stiff, so I used a punch to help slide the bolt handle rearward until it locked in with the bolt. I then replaced the buffer pin with the replacement one from Tandemkross and completed a function check.
Upgrading receiver components.
Before attaching the new BX trigger unit, I replaced the factory mag release with the new one. Once again, it was a simple job. I set the trigger unit in the jaws of my Real Avid gunsmithing vice, freeing up a hand. Using a punch in one hand, I removed the trigger release pin while the other hand held the mag plunger in place (otherwise, it would shoot across the room once released from spring tension). I carefully removed the factory mag release, replaced it with the Tactical Solutions one, and drove in the new pin. All left is to attach the new trigger unit to the receiver via two pins. Voilà.
Action complete, all left to do is attach the barrel and add the chassis. Before securing the barrel, I took the time to clean out the bore—primarily to remove any lingering machining oil from the factory. Once finished, I slid the barrel into place and used the Tandemkross aluminum v-block and screws to secure it. I flipped the barreled action over (again ensuring that the safety selector was in the middle position) and added the chassis. One screw holds it all together, which I tightened to specification (this varies depending on the source, but I tightened mine to 28-inch pounds). After this, I added the Area 419 scope rail, which I mounted a Vortex Stike Eagle 3-18x44, and we have a completed gun!
For optics the Author chose a Vortex Strike Eagle.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I planned to shoot the gun before completing the article, but unfortunately, the weather in Ohio has not been kind—cold and rainy (with lots of rain in the 14-day forecast). But I am fired up over how this build turned out. Not only does it look good, but it should also be an excellent rifle to take to local 22 matches and introduce new shooters into the sport. The 10/22 is a simple platform, making it a fantastic platform for Basement Builders. Anyone with a few basic tools—and maybe a YouTube video or two—can conquer the build process and make the most fun BA 22 rifle out there.
