Steel Challenge rewards a fast, stable, repeatable platform, and the stock on your Ruger 10/22 has a big effect on how quickly and consistently you can transition between targets. The best competition stocks add an adjustable fit, a stable fore-end, and clearance for a bull barrel. Here’s a guide to choosing the best 10/22 stock for Steel Challenge.
What matters for Steel Challenge
- Adjustable fit — length of pull and comb height let you index the gun the same way every draw.
- Bull-barrel clearance — many competition 10/22s wear a heavy 0.920″ barrel, so the stock needs the right barrel channel.
- A stable, comfortable fore-end — for consistent hold and (if allowed) bipod/optic support.
- Light, balanced feel — quick target-to-target transitions favor a gun that points naturally.
Magpul Hunter X-22
The Magpul Hunter X-22 is a hugely popular fully-featured drop-in stock. It offers adjustable length of pull and comb height (via spacers and risers), M-LOK slots, and a reversible fore-end insert with channels for both factory and 0.920″ bull barrels. It’s modular, affordable, and a great competition-friendly upgrade.
Magpul MOE X-22
The lighter MOE X-22 offers enhanced grip and modularity at a lower price — a simpler, lighter option for shooters who don’t need the Hunter’s full adjustability.
Other options to consider
- Boyds hardwood/laminate stocks — rigid, customizable, and available in target/thumbhole profiles with bull-barrel channels.
- Victor Company / chassis-style stocks — for shooters who want an AR-style adjustable chassis feel.
How to choose
- Best all-round adjustable drop-in: the Magpul Hunter X-22.
- Lighter/simpler and cheaper: the MOE X-22.
- Maximum rigidity/custom fit: a Boyds laminate target stock.
- Match the stock’s barrel channel to your barrel profile (factory vs 0.920″ bull), and confirm your division’s equipment rules before competing.
Note: follow all safe firearm-handling rules and your match’s division regulations.