What Ammo Not to Use in Ruger 10/22?
The Ruger 10/22 is a legendary.22 Long Rifle semi-automatic rifle that has been a favorite among target shooters, plinkers, and hunting enthusiasts for decades. Its reliability, accuracy, and affordability have made it a staple in many gun rooms around the world. However, like any firearm, the 10/22 has its own set of rules and recommendations when it comes to choosing the right ammunition.
In this article, we will delve into the world of.22 Long Rifle cartridges and identify the types of ammunition that you should avoid using in your Ruger 10/22. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of what ammo to steer clear of and why.
Why Not to Use JHP (Jacketed Hollow Point) Ammo
One of the most significant types of ammunition to avoid using in your 10/22 is JHP (Jacketed Hollow Point). JHP bullets are designed for hunting larger game and are not suitable for use in a rimfire rifle like the 10/22. Here’s why:
• Lubricity issues: JHP bullets often have a higher bullet-to-jacket ratio, which can lead to excessive friction and reduce the lubricity of the barrel. This can cause the bolt to bind and the rifle to jam.
• Inaccurate and unpredictable: JHP bullets are designed for penetration and expansion, not accuracy. Their irregular shape and lack of uniformity can result in inconsistent shot patterns and decreased accuracy.
• Expensive: JHP ammunition is typically more expensive than other types of.22 Long Rifle cartridges, making it a poor choice for plinking and target shooting.
Ammunition to Avoid Due to Poor Quality
Some ammunition manufacturers produce.22 Long Rifle cartridges that are not up to par with others in the market. Here are a few types of ammunition to steer clear of:
• Chinese-made ammunition: Some Chinese manufacturers have been known to produce.22 Long Rifle cartridges with inconsistent powder charges, erratic primer performance, and poor-quality casings.
• Discount or bulk store ammo: Many discount or bulk store ammo options are manufactured with cheaper materials and are designed for bulk sales rather than quality performance.
• Sub-standard casing manufacturers: Some casing manufacturers may use low-quality brass, copper, or steel in their.22 Long Rifle cartridges, which can lead to premature wear, reliability issues, and inconsistent performance.
Table:.22 Long Rifle Ammunition Quality Ranking
| Ammunition Manufacturer | Quality Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|
| Federal Premium | 5 |
| Remington High Velocity | 4 |
| Winchester Supreme Elite | 4 |
| CCI Blazer | 3.5 |
| Winchester Train and Defend | 3 |
| Chinese-made ammo | 1-2 |
Additional Types of Ammunition to Avoid
There are a few more types of.22 Long Rifle ammunition that you should avoid using in your Ruger 10/22:
• Shotshell or birdshot: These are designed for hunting small game and can cause reliability issues and misfires in the 10/22.
• Centerfire rifle ammunition: This type of ammunition is designed for centerfire rifles and can damage your 10/22’s firing mechanism.
• Steel-cased or reloaded ammunition: These types of ammunition can be dangerous and potentially harmful if used in a semi-automatic rifle like the 10/22.
Conclusion
The Ruger 10/22 is an incredible firearm that can deliver consistent and accurate performance when paired with the right ammunition. By avoiding the types of ammunition outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the full potential of your 10/22. Remember to always check your local laws and regulations before purchasing ammunition, and consult your 10/22’s user manual for recommended ammunition types.
