The Ruger 10/22 is one of the most popular and widely owned .22 caliber rifles in the world. Knowing the year of manufacture for your Ruger 10/22 can be crucial for various reasons, including determining its value, identifying specific features or upgrades it may have, and ensuring compatibility with aftermarket parts. This guide will help you understand how to determine the age of your Ruger 10/22 using its serial number.

Ruger 10/22 Serial Number Lookup Table

Serial Number RangeYear of ManufactureNotes
100-00000 - 100-248891964First year of production. Early models have flat bolts.
100-24890 - 100-467591965
100-46760 - 100-717591966
100-71760 - 100-967591967
101-00000 - 101-490191968Introduction of the "finger groove" stock.
101-49020 - 101-990191969
102-00000 - 102-490191970
102-49020 - 102-990191971
103-00000 - 103-490191972
103-49020 - 103-990191973
104-00000 - 104-490191974
104-49020 - 104-990191975
105-00000 - 105-490191976
105-49020 - 105-990191977
106-00000 - 106-490191978
106-49020 - 106-990191979
107-00000 - 107-490191980
107-49020 - 107-990191981
108-00000 - 108-490191982
108-49020 - 108-990191983
109-00000 - 109-490191984
109-49020 - 109-990191985
110-00000 - 110-490191986
110-49020 - 110-990191987
111-00000 - 111-490191988
111-49020 - 111-990191989
112-00000 - 112-490191990
112-49020 - 112-990191991
113-00000 - 113-490191992
113-49020 - 113-990191993
114-00000 - 114-490191994
114-49020 - 114-990191995
115-00000 - 115-490191996
115-49020 - 115-990191997
116-00000 - 116-490191998
116-49020 - 116-990191999
223-xxxxx2000Prefix serial number
224-xxxxx2001Prefix serial number
225-xxxxx2002Prefix serial number
226-xxxxx2003Prefix serial number
227-xxxxx2004Prefix serial number
228-xxxxx2005Prefix serial number
229-xxxxx2006Prefix serial number
230-xxxxx2007Prefix serial number
231-xxxxx2008Prefix serial number
232-xxxxx2009Prefix serial number
233-xxxxx2010Prefix serial number
234-xxxxx2011Prefix serial number
235-xxxxx2012Prefix serial number
236-xxxxx2013Prefix serial number
237-xxxxx2014Prefix serial number
360-xxxxx2015Prefix serial number
828-xxxxx2016Prefix serial number
829-xxxxx2017Prefix serial number
830-xxxxx2018Prefix serial number
831-xxxxx2019Prefix serial number
832-xxxxx2020Prefix serial number
833-xxxxx2021Prefix serial number
834-xxxxx2022Prefix serial number
835-xxxxx2023Prefix serial number
836-xxxxx2024Prefix serial number

Detailed Explanations of Table Information

Serial Number Range: This column provides the range of serial numbers used for Ruger 10/22 rifles manufactured in a specific year. Locate your rifle's serial number and find the range it falls within. This is the primary method for determining the year of manufacture.

Year of Manufacture: This column indicates the year in which the Ruger 10/22 rifles with the corresponding serial number range were manufactured. This is the information you are trying to determine.

Notes: This column provides additional information about specific features or changes that occurred during that year of production. For example, it might note the introduction of a new stock design or a modification to the bolt. This can help you further identify specific characteristics of your rifle.

Finding Your Ruger 10/22 Serial Number

The serial number on a Ruger 10/22 is typically located on the receiver of the rifle. Specifically, you can usually find it on the left side of the receiver, either engraved or stamped into the metal. In some cases, particularly on older models, it might be located on the underside of the receiver.

Using the Serial Number to Determine Year of Manufacture

  1. Locate the Serial Number: Carefully examine your Ruger 10/22's receiver to find the serial number.
  2. Consult the Table: Refer to the table provided above.
  3. Identify the Range: Find the serial number range that includes your rifle's serial number.
  4. Determine the Year: The corresponding year listed in the table is the year your Ruger 10/22 was manufactured.

Important Considerations

  • Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc. does not offer a comprehensive public database to look up the date of manufacture by serial number. The table provided is compiled from publicly available information and historical records.
  • Variations Exist: While the table is generally accurate, slight variations may occur due to production changes or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Contact Ruger: If you are unable to determine the year of manufacture using the table, or if you have a particularly rare or unusual model, you can contact Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc. directly. They may be able to provide more specific information based on your rifle's serial number. However, keep in mind they may not have records going back to the earliest production years.
  • Prefix Serial Numbers: In the year 2000, Ruger switched to a prefix serial number system for the 10/22. This means the serial number begins with a set of numbers followed by a hyphen and then the remaining digits. This makes dating the rifle much easier.

Additional Information & Historical Notes

Early Models (1964-1960s): These models are highly sought after by collectors. Key features to look for include:

  • Flat Bolt: Early 10/22s had a flat bolt. This is a significant identifying feature for collectors.
  • Finger Groove Stock: Introduced in 1968, this stock design features grooves along the forend for improved grip.

Later Models (1970s-Present): These models feature improvements in manufacturing and design, including:

  • Improved Sights: Later models often have adjustable rear sights for greater accuracy.
  • Synthetic Stocks: The introduction of synthetic stocks offered increased durability and weather resistance.

Special Editions: Ruger has produced numerous special edition 10/22 rifles over the years, often commemorating anniversaries or collaborations. These models may have unique serial number ranges or markings. Researching the specific edition is important for accurate dating.

Why is knowing the year important?

  • Value: The year of manufacture can impact the value of your Ruger 10/22, particularly for older or rare models.
  • Parts Compatibility: Knowing the year is crucial when purchasing aftermarket parts or accessories to ensure proper fit and function.
  • Historical Significance: Understanding the history of your rifle can add to its personal value and enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the serial number located on my Ruger 10/22? The serial number is typically found on the left side of the receiver, but may be on the underside for older models.

How accurate is this serial number lookup table? It's generally accurate, but slight variations may exist. Contact Ruger if you're unsure.

What does a prefix serial number mean? Prefix serial numbers, starting in 2000, begin with a set of numbers, a hyphen, and then the rest of the digits, making dating easier.

Can I look up the serial number on Ruger's website? No, Ruger does not offer a public database for serial number lookups.

Why is knowing the year of manufacture important? It affects the rifle's value, parts compatibility, and historical significance.

Conclusion

Determining the year of manufacture for your Ruger 10/22 using its serial number is a straightforward process with the help of a comprehensive table. By locating the serial number and consulting the table provided, you can accurately identify the year your rifle was made, which is essential for valuation, parts compatibility, and understanding its history.