Ruger 10/22 Carbine Rifle (.22 LR) - Model 11172: The Definitive Guide for Shooters

Are you searching for a versatile, reliable, and incredibly fun .22 LR rifle that stands the test of time? Look no further than the iconic Ruger 10/22 Carbine, specifically the Model 11172, known for its distinctive Coyote Brown stock and a host of performance-driven features. This rifle is more than just a firearm; it's a legacy in the shooting world, offering an unparalleled blend of affordability, accuracy, and limitless customization potential. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast, a first-time gun owner, or an avid small game hunter, the Ruger 10/22 Model 11172 is engineered to exceed expectations, making it a top recommendation for anyone considering a rimfire rifle.

This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of the Ruger 10/22 Carbine Model 11172, exploring its robust design, practical applications, and why it remains a preferred choice for millions of shooters globally. We’ll cover everything from its legendary action to its readiness for accessories, helping you understand why this rifle is often cited by experts as one of the best .22 LR options available.

Understanding the Ruger 10/22 Legacy: Why It's a Go-To Rimfire Rifle

The Ruger 10/22 has earned its "legendary" status through decades of proven performance, unwavering reliability, and an ingenious design that combines simplicity with effectiveness. First introduced in 1964, it quickly became a benchmark for .22 LR semi-automatic rifles. Its enduring popularity is not just a testament to its initial design but also to Ruger's continuous innovation, adapting the rifle to modern shooter needs while retaining its core strengths.

For those asking, "What makes the Ruger 10/22 so popular?", the answer lies in its ability to deliver consistent accuracy, low recoil, and an economical shooting experience. The .22 LR cartridge is one of the most affordable ammunition types, making the 10/22 an ideal choice for extended plinking sessions, cost-effective training, and introducing new shooters to firearm safety and marksmanship without the intimidation of larger calibers. The Model 11172 embodies all these classic attributes, enhanced by specific features that cater to contemporary preferences.

Key Features and Engineering Excellence of the Model 11172

The Ruger 10/22 Carbine Model 11172 is meticulously crafted to deliver precision, durability, and user-friendly operation. Its design philosophy centers around reliable functionality and adaptability.

The Heart of the Rifle: Legendary Action and Reliability

• Tried and True Design: At the core of the Model 11172 is the legendary Ruger 10/22 action. This semi-automatic blowback action is renowned for its simplicity, robustness, and consistent, reliable feeding. Shooters can depend on it for thousands of rounds, minimizing malfunctions and maximizing range time enjoyment.
• Detachable 10-Round Rotary Magazine: The rifle comes standard with a unique, flush-mounted 10-round rotary magazine. This innovative design separates cartridges, preventing jams and ensuring smooth, reliable feeding directly into the chamber. Its compact profile means it doesn't protrude below the stock, enhancing handling comfort and aesthetics.
• Extended Magazine Release: For swift and hassle-free magazine changes, the Model 11172 features an easy-to-use extended magazine release. This thoughtful design improvement allows for quick, positive removal of the flush-mounted magazine, crucial for competitive shooting or rapid reloading.

Uncompromising Durability and Materials

• Alloy Steel Construction: The receiver and barrel are crafted from durable alloy steel, known for its strength and longevity. This robust material choice ensures the rifle can withstand rigorous use and maintain its integrity over many years.
• Satin Black Finish: The metal components are protected by a sleek Satin Black finish, offering excellent resistance against corrosion, wear, and the elements, ensuring the rifle maintains its appearance and performance in diverse environments.
• Heat-Stabilized, Glass-Filled Polymer Trigger Housing: The trigger housing assembly is precision-made from a high-tech, heat-stabilized, glass-filled polymer. This advanced material provides superior manufacturing tolerances, exceptional impact and abrasion resistance, and an unmatched ability to withstand various environmental conditions, from extreme cold to heat and moisture. This construction enhances both durability and reliability.

Accuracy and Performance Enhancements

• Cold Hammer-Forged Barrel: The 16.62-inch barrel is cold hammer-forged, a process that creates a precise rifling and a remarkably durable barrel. This manufacturing method results in superior accuracy, consistency, and a longer barrel life.
• Unique V-Block System: The barrel is securely locked into the receiver using a distinctive two-screw, V-block system. This innovative attachment method ensures a rock-solid barrel-to-receiver connection, which is critical for consistent accuracy shot after shot.
• 1:16" Right-Hand Twist Rate with 6 Grooves: The barrel features a 1:16-inch right-hand twist rate with six grooves. This specific twist rate is optimized for stabilizing the wide range of .22 LR bullet weights, ensuring exceptional accuracy for target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting.
• Threaded Barrel (1/2"-28): A significant feature for modern shooters, the barrel is threaded 1/2"-28. This allows for the easy attachment of various muzzle devices, such as compensators, flash suppressors, or sound suppressors, enhancing the rifle's versatility and adaptability for different shooting preferences and regulations.

Ergonomics and User Experience

• Coyote Brown Synthetic Stock: The Model 11172 features a striking Coyote Brown synthetic stock. This durable, weather-resistant stock provides a comfortable and secure grip, ensuring positive control in various conditions. The synthetic material is lightweight, contributing to the rifle's overall portability, and resists scratches, dents, and environmental wear far better than traditional wood.
• Lightweight Design: Weighing in at a mere 4.6 pounds, the Ruger 10/22 Carbine is exceptionally light and maneuverable. This low weight makes it comfortable for extended carrying in the field, easy for younger shooters to handle, and quick to shoulder for rapid target acquisition.
• Compact Overall Length: With an overall length of just 37 inches, the rifle is compact and easy to transport and store. Its streamlined profile is ideal for navigating dense brush during hunting trips or fitting comfortably in gun cases.
• Positive, Push-Button, Cross-Bolt Manual Safety: For secure handling, the rifle incorporates a positive, push-button, cross-bolt manual safety. This intuitive design is easily accessible and provides a clear visual and tactile indication of the rifle's safe or fire status, promoting responsible firearm operation.

Optics Ready Design

• Combination Scope Base Adapter: The Model 11172 comes equipped with a combination scope base adapter, providing mounting options for both Weaver-style and .22 tip-off scope mounts. This versatility allows shooters to easily attach their preferred optics, whether a traditional scope for precision shooting, a red dot sight for quick target acquisition, or simply using the integral scope mount for stability. Since the rifle does not come with iron sights, attaching an optic is essential for aiming, and this feature simplifies the process.

Ideal Use Cases for the Ruger 10/22 Model 11172

The Ruger 10/22 Carbine Model 11172 is an incredibly adaptable firearm, suitable for a wide array of shooting disciplines and scenarios.

• Beginner Shooters and Training: "Is the Ruger 10/22 a good first rifle?" Absolutely. Its minimal recoil, light weight, and inexpensive ammunition make it an excellent platform for introducing new shooters to firearm fundamentals, safety, and marksmanship. The simple controls and reliable operation build confidence quickly.
• Recreational Plinking: For countless shooters, the 10/22 is synonymous with fun at the range. Its high capacity (with optional magazines), ease of use, and low cost of shooting make it perfect for hours of informal target practice and "plinking" at various reactive targets.
• Small Game Hunting: The accuracy and light weight of the Model 11172 make it an ideal choice for hunting small game like squirrels, rabbits, and other varmints. Its compact size allows for easy maneuverability in the field, and the .22 LR cartridge is perfectly adequate for humane dispatch of such animals at appropriate ranges.
• Target Shooting and Competition (Rimfire Division): While often seen as a plinking rifle, the Ruger 10/22's inherent accuracy, especially with its cold hammer-forged barrel and stable V-block system, makes it capable of impressive precision. With minor upgrades, it can hold its own in various rimfire target shooting competitions.
• Survival and Prepping: The .22 LR's light weight, small size, and widespread availability make it a valuable asset for survival scenarios. The Ruger 10/22's reliability and ease of maintenance position it as a strong contender for a bug-out bag or long-term preparedness kit.
• Customization Platform: For enthusiasts asking, "Can I customize a Ruger 10/22?", the answer is a resounding yes. The 10/22 boasts the most extensive aftermarket support of any rimfire rifle. Owners can easily swap out stocks, triggers, barrels, and countless other components to tailor the rifle precisely to their preferences and specific shooting needs. The Model 11172's threaded barrel further expands these customization possibilities by allowing for different muzzle devices.

Why Choose the Ruger 10/22 Carbine Model 11172?

Choosing the Ruger 10/22 Model 11172 means investing in a legacy of performance and adaptability. Here are compelling reasons why it stands out:

• Proven Reliability: Decades of performance mean you can trust this rifle to function flawlessly, shot after shot. Its legendary action minimizes frustration and maximizes shooting enjoyment.
• Exceptional Value: The combination of durable construction, reliable operation, and affordability makes the 10/22 one of the best bangs for your buck in the firearm market. The low cost of .22 LR ammunition further enhances its economical appeal.
• User-Friendly for All Skill Levels: From its intuitive safety to its gentle recoil, the Model 11172 is designed for easy handling by shooters of all ages and experience levels.
• Ready for Optics: The included scope base adapter ensures you can quickly mount your preferred optic, allowing for immediate precision shooting without additional purchases or modifications.
• Modern Features: The Coyote Brown stock offers a modern aesthetic and enhanced durability, while the threaded barrel provides an essential feature for contemporary shooters looking to add muzzle devices or suppressors.
• Robust Aftermarket Support: If you ever decide to upgrade or personalize your rifle, the vast array of aftermarket parts ensures endless possibilities. This is a rifle that can grow with your shooting journey.

Caring for Your Ruger 10/22 Carbine

Maintaining the Ruger 10/22 Model 11172 is straightforward, contributing to its enduring appeal. Basic cleaning after each range session, focusing on the barrel, bolt, and receiver, will ensure its longevity and continued reliable performance. Due to its robust design and quality materials, it requires minimal specialized care beyond standard firearm maintenance practices. Always consult your owner's manual for specific cleaning and maintenance instructions.

Where to Purchase the Ruger 10/22 Carbine Model 11172

For those ready to experience the legendary performance of the Ruger 10/22 Carbine Model 11172, look no further than DEGuns.com. As a reputable online retailer, DEGuns offers this popular rifle, ensuring a secure and compliant purchase process. Their commitment to customer satisfaction makes them an excellent choice for acquiring your next firearm.

In summary, the Ruger 10/22 Carbine Model 11172 with its Coyote Brown stock is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a reliable, accurate, and versatile .22 LR rifle. Its legendary design, modern features like the threaded barrel, and exceptional value cement its position as a top-tier option for plinking, hunting, training, and more. Embrace the legacy and enhance your shooting experience with this timeless classic.

Ruger 10/22 Carbine Rifle Model 11172 Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model Number	11172
UPC	736676111725
Stock	Coyote Brown
Front Sight	None
Rear Sight	None
Material	Alloy Steel
Twist Rate	1:16" RH
Capacity	10 Rounds
Finish	Satin Black
Weight	4.6 lbs
Overall Length	37"
Barrel Length	16.62"
Grooves	6
Muzzle	Threaded 1/2"-28