How to Install a Sling on a Ruger 10/22

The Ruger 10/22 is the most popular .22 caliber rifle in history. Unlike many lesser long-guns, it does not come from the factory with sling-swivel studs. This makes it a challenge to add a sling.



The best way to add a sling to a 10/22 is to install an aftermarket, Ruger 10/22 sling-swivel installation kit. This kit includes a new barrel band with a sling-swivel attached, and a traditional sling-swivel for the butt stock.

Things You'll Need

  • Ruger 10/22 swivel installation kit
  • Sling
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Drill
  • Set of drill bits
  • Pencil
  • Masking tape
  • Linseed oil
  • Clean rag
  • Tape measure
  • Vice
  • Towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the barrel-band screw by turning it counterclockwise with the screwdriver. Grasp the barrel band and pull it directly up and away from the rifle.

    • 2

      Slide the new barrel band over the barrel and stock. It is equipped with the sling-swivel. Tighten the screw by turning it clockwise with the screwdriver.

    • 3

      Drape a towel over the open jaws of your vice. Turn the rifle upside down and place the butt stock into the vice.

    • 4

      Hold the rifle so that about an inch of the bottom edge rises above the vice jaws. Tighten the vice to hold the rifle firmly, but not so tight the wooden stock is crushed.

    • 5

      Find the point on the butt-stock's bottom edge 3 inches from the end. Mark it using the pencil.

    • 6

      Consult your installation kit to determine the proper size drill bit. If the kit does not specify a size, pick a bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the threads on the swivel-stud.

    • 7

      Measure the length of the threaded portion of the swivel-stud using the tape measure. Make note of the length. Using the tape, measure from the tip of the drill bit down the shank to the length of the swivel-stud threads. Mark the distance by wrapping several thicknesses of masking tape around the drill bit.

    • 8

      Place the drill bit into the drill and bore straight down into the stock. Drill into the mark until the masking tape touches the wood. Reverse the bit out of the hole.

    • 9

      Dab the hole with a rag that has been dipped in linseed oil. This will seal the wood from moisture.

    • 10

      Twist the swivel-stud into the hole by hand until the collar contacts the stock.

    • 11

      Attach the sling to the swivels. This step will vary by manufacturer, but generally you release the sling ends from the buckles that hold them. Pass them through the sling-swivels on each end of the rifle and then reattach them with the buckles.