The Ruger 10/22 is a legendary .22LR rifle, renowned for its reliability, affordability, and incredible aftermarket support. One of the most popular upgrades for this platform is a replacement trigger, and the BX Trigger from Ruger stands out as a significant improvement over the factory offering. This in-depth guide explores the Ruger BX trigger for the 10/22, examining its features, benefits, installation, and overall value.
What Makes the Ruger BX Trigger Special?
The factory trigger on the Ruger 10/22 is often criticized for its gritty feel and relatively long pull weight. The BX Trigger addresses these shortcomings, offering a noticeable upgrade in both feel and performance. Key features include:
-
Improved Trigger Pull: The BX Trigger boasts a significantly lighter and crisper trigger pull compared to the factory unit. This translates to improved accuracy and faster target acquisition, crucial for both casual shooting and competitive disciplines. While the exact pull weight varies slightly, you'll consistently experience a much more refined trigger break.
-
Enhanced Adjustability: While not as extensively adjustable as some aftermarket triggers, the BX Trigger provides a degree of customization. This typically involves adjusting the overtravel, allowing you to fine-tune the trigger's overall feel to your personal preference.
-
Drop-In Installation: One of the biggest selling points of the BX Trigger is its ease of installation. Designed as a direct replacement, it requires minimal tools and expertise, making it accessible even to novice gunsmiths. This simplicity is a key factor in its popularity among 10/22 owners.
-
Ruger Reliability: As a Ruger-manufactured component, you can rest assured that the BX Trigger meets the same high standards of quality and reliability expected from the company's firearms. This is a significant advantage over some aftermarket triggers that may lack the same level of rigorous testing and manufacturing precision.
Installing Your BX Trigger: A Step-by-Step Guide
While the installation process is relatively straightforward, it's crucial to follow the correct procedures to ensure proper function and safety. Always consult the included instructions, but generally, the process involves these steps:
-
Disassemble the Receiver: Carefully remove the receiver's components, including the bolt, magazine release, and existing trigger group.
-
Remove the Old Trigger: Once the receiver is disassembled, gently remove the old trigger group, paying attention to the small parts and springs.
-
Install the BX Trigger: Carefully insert the BX Trigger group into the receiver, ensuring all components are properly aligned.
-
Reassemble the Receiver: Reverse the disassembly process, carefully reassembling all components. Double-check that everything is in its correct position before proceeding.
-
Test Fire: After reassembly, carefully test fire the rifle at a safe range, ensuring proper function and accuracy.
BX Trigger vs. Aftermarket Options: A Comparison
While the BX Trigger offers a substantial upgrade over the factory trigger, numerous aftermarket options exist, each with its own set of features and benefits. The choice often depends on budget, desired level of adjustability, and individual preferences. Some aftermarket triggers offer more extensive adjustability, lighter pull weights, or unique features like binary triggers or drop-safe mechanisms. However, the BX Trigger provides an excellent balance of performance, reliability, and ease of installation, making it a compelling choice for many 10/22 owners.
Conclusion: Is the BX Trigger Right for You?
The Ruger BX Trigger provides a significant upgrade to the 10/22 platform, enhancing both accuracy and the overall shooting experience. Its ease of installation and Ruger's reputation for quality make it a highly recommended upgrade for any 10/22 owner seeking to improve their rifle's performance. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the world of firearm customization, the BX Trigger represents a worthwhile investment that will enhance your enjoyment of this classic rifle.