It’s said that more .22 rimfire ammo is shot annually than all other calibers combined. I know this is especially true for me, since I enjoy the great attributes of this superb hunting and sporting round. Like many Americans, I reach for my Ruger 10/22 more so than any other rimfire rifle in my collection. The sleek lines and compact styling have made the 10/22 one of the all time best selling firearms.

Anyone familiar with the 10/22 knows that there are a multitude of accessories available to dress up this beauty. In the last decade, hundreds of prominent shooters have devised methods to improve the accuracy of this little rifle. In fact, there are numerous shooting matches that have evolved from the stock type factory rifle upward to the unlimited classes, which barely resemble a Ruger you might find at your dealer.

Previously, we had dressed up our 10/22 with a custom aftermarket barrel that was built with a tight chamber designed for match grade ammo. The typical custom barrel for this style rifle is the heavy “varmint” design that often has a diameter of .920. Although it is possible to utilize the factory stock, most shooters opt for a replacement stock.

This is where we are now, ready for something new and exciting to spruce up the old Ruger. Due to the reputation Bell and Carlson products have, we chose to install one of the synthetic stocks they offer. As in the past, Bell and Carlson did not disappoint us.

Our choice of stock was the Anschultz version of their 10/22 models. Bell and Carlson offer a half dozen or so stocks from the common sporter design through the Anschultz model we picked and a few thumbhole versions, as well. Additionally, there are a few color choices and camo options.

In just a matter of days, the package arrived on our doorstep. Since, I had not been able to “try on” the stock prior to order, I was very anxious to pick it up and get a feel for it. Boy, was I in for a treat! Not only does the unique styling immediately catch your eye, the stock simply feels at home in your hands. The most prominent feature is the pronounced vertical shaped pistol grip, which is unlike anything found on a factory stock. Designed after the world famous Anschultz rifles that have dominated Olympic competition for years, it really catches the eye.

Of course, the thick beavertail forearm, which fits perfectly in the left hand leaves the impression, this stock is rugged and well constructed. Somehow the spacious forearm fits just as nice into my palm as it does into a sand bag sleeve. This baby is equally at home being fired off hand as it is from a rest. SWEET!

If you are salivating now, we better not mention the rear portion of this Bell and Carlson stock for fear it may overwhelm you. Pay close attention… The comb of the stock includes a high cheek piece that automatically puts your face into perfect alignment with the your scope. Additionally, it’s done without the “Monte Carlo” look that has been so prevalent for decades. The rear of the stock is fitted with a nice rubber non-slip pad.

My stock came in a semi-matte black finish that had no checkering. Bell and Carlson have implemented a unique finish that incorporates a sort of spider web undercoat that offers all the grip one needs. It also helps incorporate the high tech look and feel of this stock. Dirt and dust wipe right off the finish and it sheds water like a ducks back. Another excellent idea from the innovative Kansas company.

Installation was a snap! I mean about five minutes and a screwdriver are all that’s involved to go from “plain Jane” wood to hot stuff synthetic. The simplicity of the Ruger design means that its only necessary to take out one screw, which is in front of the magazine well. Slide the unloaded action from the old wooden stock, wipe it down and ease it into the B&C fiberglass version. Next, tighten the screw and you are ready to bore sight your hot new rig.

One of the biggest advantages of the synthetic stock is the fact that it is impervious to climate changes. Wood on the other hand swells and contracts according to the humidity and weather. This slight difference can increase noticeably when accuracy counts and money is on the line. Originally, this is the main reason we went with the bolt on composite material versus the factory wood “handle”.

Weight is kept light and manageable. Our version topped the scale at two pounds six ounces. Slightly less weight than the deluxe Walnut blank that previously adorned or rifle. Cost is normally about one hundred and eighty bucks for the Anschultz model, yet the other 10/22 stocks can be a bit more or less expensive depending on the customer’s choice. This isn’t a tough project, but one that does carry a decent price tag. Buy one of their stocks and you will find the quality we did as well as the fact that each B&C comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which means that baring a severe beating your stock will hold up to all of the rigors of the range, squirrel woods and even the baggage handlers at O’Hara International Airport!

For those in a rush, Bell and Carlson also offer complete packages with which the shooter can customize their rifle. Each kit contains a barrel, stock and trigger assembly, all the basic items to make your Ruger radical.

Once our rifle was completely assembled, I tried it on for “size”. Wow! It handles like a charm. The rifle is still a bit muzzle heavy, but it has a very natural feel and my face just drops onto the stock in the proper place so effortlessly. Since my cheek is immediately in the proper position, I don’t have to adjust for adequate eye relief allowing a fast and accurate first shot. That is important to hunters and shooters alike.

I would highly recommend this Bell and Carlson stock to anyone with a Ruger 10/22 that might be in the market for customizing his or her rimfire. Suddenly, I have a new favorite rifle and best of all its incredibly accurate and cheap to shoot. Check out Bell and Carlson 10/22, rifle and shotgun stocks at your favorite gun dealer. If you can’t find what you need, then go on line to the Bell and Carlson Website (www.bellandcarlson.com) Here you will be amazed at the unbelievable selection of options offered. I have a feeling you’ll find a stock perfectly suited for your needs!