In the world of competitive shooting—especially rimfire disciplines like Steel Challenge—light weight, reliability and fast handling aren't just nice-to-haves; they’re essential. The Ruger 10/22 has been a backbone of rimfire competition for decades, and now with the 10/22 Carbon Fiber (Model 31220), Ruger has taken an iconic platform and tuned it for today’s speed shooters. What you get is an ultra-lightweight, competition-ready carbine with thoughtful features from end to end—all for a retail price of $649.
Let’s dive into what makes this version of the Ruger 10/22 a legitimate contender on the Steel Challenge range.
CARBON-FIBER TENSIONED BARREL: LIGHTWEIGHT, RIGID AND SUPPRESSOR-READY
The 16.1-inch, cold hammer-forged stainless-steel barrel, tensioned inside a carbon-fiber sleeve, is where this rifle immediately stands apart. This tensioned system offers the best of both worlds—steel barrel accuracy with carbon-fiber weight savings. Barrel finish is clear satin. In addition, the carbon-fiber sleeve stiffens the barrel, which means less harmonic vibration and improved accuracy, especially during rapid fire.
The 1/2x28 TPI threaded muzzle allows for the attachment of muzzle devices such as compensators or suppressors, and includes a thread protector.
A SOLID STEEL CHALLENGE RIMFIRE RIFLE OPEN DIVISION GUN
Scope-ready, the Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber rimfire features a factory-installed, one-piece aluminum scope rail that simplifies optic mounting. It is perfect for red-dot optics or reflex sights that are commonly used in Steel Challenge.
A rugged rimfire rifle, the Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber is built to withstand the elements. The trigger housing is made from heat-stabilized, glass-filled polymer for impact and weather resistance.
MAGPUL MOE X-22 STOCK: FUNCTIONAL ERGONOMICS AND MODULARITY
Magpul’s MOE X-22 stock features M-LOK slots at the six o’clock position and a black-with-white-speckle finish. A TSP texture on the pistol grip ensures grip security in all conditions. Additionally, the 13½-inch length of pull makes it versatile for competition shooters, big and small.
LEGENDARY 10/22 ACTION, ROTARY MAGAZINE AND TRIGGER
More standout features on this Ruger 10/22: the reliable blowback action and a detachable 10-round rotary magazine, the latter using an internal rotor for jam-free feeding. The extended magazine release makes magazine changes faster and easier. Plus, the Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber includes the familiar push-button cross-bolt manual safety.
The Ruger BX-Trigger is a competition-grade trigger out of the box. It offers a 2½- to 3-pound trigger pull with a clean break and positive reset. The advantages of minimal overtravel and a predictable reset, namely, for faster follow-up shots, cannot be overstated.
WHY IT’S A TOP PICK FOR STEEL CHALLENGE
You don’t have to spend more than $1,000 to get into Steel Challenge with a competitive rimfire rifle. The Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber brings the essential elements—lightweight feel, consistent accuracy, solid ergonomics and a fast trigger—together in one rifle that’s ready for the range or the podium.
Out of the box, this gun needs almost nothing added. Pop on a red dot, load up some mags and you’re ready to run. Ruger hit a home run here. By pairing modern materials, ergonomic enhancements and performance-driven features with the solid 10/22 action, the company has delivered a rifle that feels purpose-built for competition. For $649 MSRP, it’s an incredible value, especially considering you would spend more piecing this together with aftermarket parts.
Whether you’re a new shooter jumping into the Steel Challenge Rimfire Rifle Open (RFRO) division or a seasoned veteran looking for a backup gun that doesn’t compromise, the Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber should be on your radar screen.
Article from the May/June 2025 issue of USPSA’s magazine.
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