I have had a 10/22 for years and it is one of my favorite small caliber rifles. I am looking to build a custom one or two...
That being said I want to use it for both target/plinking and small game. I have heard both good and bad on Hogue over-molded stocks.
I also am looking for a longer, fluted, heavy barrel.
Besides that the only other thing I would like is to have the ability to mount both a sling and a bipod.
I just walked upstairs from putting my second "working class custom 10/22" job together.
Inspired by a recent exchange with Zommygun and Iowegan, I ordered a 16.5" Green Mountain Barrel, blued, fluted, and installed the assembly in a Hogue OD over-molded stock. It wears a Nikon 2X-7X camo scope, that is both very clear, and as a slug gun scope, has a slightly thicker reticle, paralax set for 75yds.
Weight is more than the stock barrel, of course, but the balance is much nicer that my first attempt with a 20" non-fluted tube, that just never felt right to me. It didn't balance/carry well in the woods.
The Green Mountain barrel was a closer fit than the original. Mt first heavy barrel from another supplier, purchased as a kit from same, was not as well or as close for fit.
I found the Hogue to be very good for fit, no need for force, but snug. The stock finish, I knew I'd like, was based on handling several Hogue's. No surprises, no disappointments. It comes with sling studs, I could easily mount a bipod. I think they are not my choice for squirrels and such.
My design intent was improved balance, and with a bit of luck, better accuracy. I have a couple trigger tweaks on board already. I added a Power Custom trigger/hammer/sear a while back. Modest cost, much smoother and lighter with overtravel adjustment. 0 problems on the install.
I totally see the attraction of a super custom 10/22 competition gun. But I don't compete, except with my daughters. Even then I'm rarely a winner. Seems 40 years of aging is some kind of handicap, when going against 18-22 year old athletes that have been shooting bows, rifles and shotguns for several years, and wear glasses, with dark lenses when it is really sunny.
As working class conversions go, I'm really pleased with the weight, balance, and feel of my upgraded toy. I'm hoping accuracy is enough to dust the princess team with their 10/22 compacts soon, and I haven't told them what's coming. I'll get the jump while they are running cross country, high school/college, and can only shoot every 2-3 weekends. No prisoners.