Uses and Customization
The 10/22 was immediately popular upon its release, being one of the first modern rifles chambered in .22 which was designed as a quality adult gun (with adult ergonomics) and not a cheap "youth rifle." However, its easy handling characteristics, negligible recoil and inexpensive ammunition nonetheless make it ideal for young or inexperienced shooters. It is very popular for small-game hunters and those who want an inexpensive rifle firing inexpensive ammunition for target and plinking use. This popularity has led to many after-market modifications being available to improve performance, augment the rifle's looks, or increase its magazine capacity, leading the 10/22 to be one of the most customizable firearms made. Custom manufacturers also make "clones" of the 10/22, which are similar in design (most parts will interchange) but built to much higher specifications and costs. The 10/22 barrel uses a unique attachment method where the barrel is screwed rather than pinned into the frame (the barrel is not threaded, but attachment involves two screws), making removal and replacement of the barrel (which would require a gunsmith's work with most other rifles) very easy. This, when combined with the simple construction of the rest of the components, means that the average person can easily replace any part in the gun with nothing more than a screwdriver, a hex key and simple punches.
Every part of the 10/22 can be purchased from aftermarket makers, and it is possible to spend many times the original cost of the gun buying customized replacement parts.
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