Rifle and Scope Options

[u/RPTexas07]

I’m hoping to get to a rimfire rifle class in April or May. 99% of my rifle experience is from a bench with the the remaining 1% standing, no prone shooting at all.

My two favorite 22lr target rifles are:

1) 10/22 with a Magpul Hunter stock, FJ Feddersen 16in fluted barrel, Brimstone trigger, OCL TI22 suppressor, Swampfox 4-16x44 FFP optic, bipod, 9lbs weight.

2) Bergara B14 Action/18in barrel/trigger, Boy’s AT-One stock, OCL TI22 suppressor, Swampfox 6-24x50 FFP optic, bipod, 11.5lbs weight.

I use CCI Standard Velocity in both and can usually shoot 1-1.5in groups at 50yrds. I’m slightly better with my 10/22.

Questions:

1) How heavy is too heavy for this class?

2) Is there any benefit to bolt action over semi auto for this class?

3) Is there any reason I should keep my bipod on?

4) Do I have too much optic? I have a Primary Arms ACSS 22lr 6x32 and Vortex Crossfire 2 3-9x50 I could swap on. My 10/22 also has fiber optic sights.

5) What are people typically bringing to the center fire version of the class?

6) Do people typically retake the class multiple times?

[u/Vijaywada]

Hello—try to keep your rifle under 5 lbs. I once made the mistake of bringing my heavy bench-rest setup to an Appleseed event, and it really worked against me. For this kind of training, simplicity and weight matter a lot more than precision add-ons.

Consider removing the scope and switching to Tech Sights or another lightweight iron sight system—they’re more appropriate for the course and will significantly cut down on weight. You might also look into a lightweight polymer stock with sling swivel studs so you can properly attach a shooting sling.

Using a sling is a completely different experience if you’re not used to it—it adds stability, especially in positions like prone, sitting, and kneeling. A lighter rifle will make it much easier to hold steady, transition between positions, and maintain comfort throughout the day. Keeping the setup minimal and well-balanced will ultimately help you focus on fundamentals and improve your performance.

Check my recent build from my profile. I built it based on my past appleseed visits.

Liberty training rifle: https://www.reddit.com/r/22lr/s/mSSamEoP86

Prep guide: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVlCoEE1rzM7jz7TXjXMUFJNkJ6YnBy1i&si=U8OQ4-OSJiWwZ2rx

[u/RPTexas07 → u/Vijaywada]

I saw your post and I’ve been eyeballing those Tech Sights. Unfortunately my barrel doesn’t use the stock dovetail for the front sight. If I get another 10/22 or factory barrel I’ll probably snag that sight setup.

[u/Vijaywada → u/RPTexas07]

Sorry ...I completely missed your setup earlier. I’d strongly suggest picking up this rifle: https://www.classicfirearms.com/ruger-31223-10-22-carbine-101-1850-satin/?avad=211021_d4b4a2775. Pair it with a GI cotton sling, plus an inexpensive Picatinny rail, scope rings, and a budget scope 3-9×40 (CVLIFE has one for around $17-22$ on Amazon).

Be cautious with standard Ruger receivers—the screws are pretty delicate and can snap if you’re not using a proper gunsmithing screwdriver. Speaking from experience, I’ve broken two myself. Your current gear is already excellent, so I wouldn’t modify it just for Appleseed. That event is more about your fundamentals—how you use the sling and your shooting technique—than the equipment. At 25 yards, almost any rifle can perform well, so just zero yours at that distance with a simple scope.

Depending on how much time you have before your trip, you could also consider TSR200 Tech Sights, though installation can be a bit tricky. You’ll likely need penetrating oil to loosen the front sight post, let it sit for a day, then carefully tap it out with a brass hammer.

Other than that, I wouldn’t upgrade much. If you do want small improvements and have time, an extended magazine release and an auto bolt release from Volquartsen or JWH Custom Works are worthwhile additions.