The Best Bolt Buffers For Ruger 10/22: Analyzed (2022)

Best Bolt Buffers for Ruger 10_22 Feature Image

In recent years there are quite a bit of fuss and confusion about the bolt buffer for Ruger 10/22 rifles. Some gun owners say it is necessary, while some others say it is useless and not needed.

As it is among the bestselling aftermarket parts for a Ruger 10/22, it does deserve our attention. We will learn about bolt buffers here, and their importance for your Ruger 10/22 rifle.

We will also review some of the best bolt buffer pins available on the market.

Bolt BuffersNameEditor’s CommentRatingGet The Best Deal
Volquartsen

Most Recommended Option

1. Super durable construction
2. Takes away a lot of the clanging from metal on metal contact
3. Easy to install

10/10SHOP NOW
TANDEMKROSS Shock Block

Most Recommended Alternative

1. Oil and solvent resistant
2. Remove the noise from metal on metal contact
3. Easy to install

10/10SHOP NOW
Tuffer Buffer1. Eliminates the “pinging” of metal on metal contact
2. No issues after 2,000 rounds fired
3. Resistant to all kinds of solvents and cleaning oils
9.5/10SHOP NOW
Tactical Solutions1. Easily reduces a lot of metal on metal contact
2. Preserves and protects the life of your receiver
3. Reduces a lot of felt recoil
9.0/10SHOP NOW
KIDD Bolt Buffer1. Reduces quite a bit of recoil and cycling vibrations
2. Eliminates a lot of clanging from metal on metal contact
3. Easily fit on most 10/22 rifles
8.5/10Currently unavailable

Bolt Buffer: Its Functions

If you are new to the gun scene, a bolt buffer is the replacement for the bolt stop pin in your rifle’s receiver. It is manufacturer from steel (the pin).

At the same time, the bolt buffer is made from polyurethane, a thermosetting polymer which does not melt when it is exposed to heat. This is the kind of property that makes the material usable for most rifles. Since that receivers are exposed to a good amount of heat.

Should you know, a bolt buffer replaces the bolt stop steel pin in your receiver. The major benefits of using a bolt buffer are as follows:

  • It induces that clinking sound when the bolt pulls back and hits the rear of the receiver after firing a shot. It is a normal action, since the Ruger 10/22 rifle has a blow-back firing system.
  • It makes the action less shaky. Dampening the recoil of your rifle and the cycling vibrations. At least according to most manufacturers anyway.
  • It can prevent cracks in your receiver, which results from prolonged usage or high-velocity ammo. Some Ruger 10/22 rifles are found to have cracked receivers after many years of use. But that does not happen very often except when you use heavier ammunitions.

How to Choose a Great Ruger 10/22 Bolt Buffer? – The Criteria

Finding the best bolt buffers for your Ruger 10/22 will take some time and research work. To put it simply, you will need to distinguish which bolt buffer in performance and does not measure up to standard quality.

If you are aware of some of the characteristics and features that makes a bolt buffer stands out, then you will be able to choose one that can work best for you relatively easy. Here are some criteria for you to consider when choosing a bolt buffer.

Price Tags

It’s totally all right to take the price into consideration. The price tag is often the 1st thing a lot of budget people look at. Once they have warmed up to the prices, they will look at the quality and performance of the bolt buffers.

The key here is to make those 2 a priority rather than price. Just make sure to find the best bolt buffer that you can afford based on the quality and performance. To put it simply, do not go cheap or you will be disappointed overall.

Quality Material Matters

Opt for high-quality materials, as it is definitely better. The best bolt buffers are often made from the best materials. As they will be working with bolt actions of Ruger 10/22 rifles, they are made from materials they will less likely wear and tear easily.

Materials such as polyurethane are not only durable, but they are also great for allowing reliable cycling for your Ruger 10/22 bolts.

Ease of Installation

Find a bolt buffer that is easy to install. Some accessories are easy to install and those that may require some kind of gun-smithing skills. If you lack any levels of gun-smithing, you can find something easy to install.

Your other choice is that if you have the extra budget and patience, you can find a bolt buffer that can be professionally installed by a gunsmith. If not, then find one that can take some time and the right kind of tools to install.

Reasons for A Bolt Buffer in Your Ruger 10/22 Rifle, Or Not

As mentioned previously, installing a buffer makes your rifle less noisy. If you are a hunter looking to prevent your game from escaping with noisy clink sounds on your rifle, then opt to install a bolt buffer.

If you have changed and modified your Ruger 10/22 with a bull barrel and plan to use heavier ammo like the Aguila or Stinger, then we will advise that it is best that you use a buffer.

Not only will it make the action less noisy, it will also protect the receiver from the heavy blow-back stress. The stress is what can eventually make your receiver crack.

If you are not a huge fan of metal slamming against metal, and will like some peace of mind while shooting your Ruger 10/22, then use it. If will not interfere with the normal functioning of the rifle.

The bolt buffers make the action smoother. It may not be much, but it still helps anyway. The buffer absorbs some energy of the recoil, so the recoil jerk gets reduced.

The reduction in the recoil jerk improves the grouping f shots and improving accuracy. Aftermarket bolt buffers are not that expensive, so to speak. You are able to find a really good one for as low as US$10. Furthermore, it prevents your Ruger 10/22 from unnecessary wear and tear too.

However, one of the reasons behind why you will less likely to get a bolt buffer is that you most likely care a lot less about getting a bolt buffer for your Ruger 10/22 rifles.

Besides, you might only use your Ruger 10/22 rifles just for the sake of fun on the range or you are not into competitions or hunting in general, where noise matters.

You will most likely not care (or mind less) about the clicking noises it made. Even when you are shooting 100s of rounds a go.

Also, you will most likely like your Ruger 10/22 rifle just the way it is. And you do not want a cheap aftermarket upgrade ruining its sanctity. Even if it improves the performances of your rifle too.

The Best Ruger 10/22 Bolt Buffers Review

The following is a quick list of some of the best bolt buffers for your Ruger 10/22 rifle. When you look through each one, take note of the features and characteristics that stands out the most for you.

You may understand how a bolt buffer works to a point where you may have an idea of what your dream bolt buffer should look and work like.

1. Tactical Solutions

Tactical Solutions

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Recent buyers of this buffer said they are really happy and satisfied with what they got. A lot of gun owners and gun users say that this is considered as one of the most affordable buffers on the market. However, it is so durable and reliable that they believe that this bolt buffer should be priced more than it is.

The same gun users and gun owners said that they are unable to hear noises coming from the bolt, which eliminates any metal on metal contact. That’s good news since it delivers what it should do as its primary task.

It may be an affordable buffer, but it does not give you that cheap and flimsy feeling. Furthermore, it is the one buffer that can easily fit Ruger 10/22LR compatible rifles.

Besides all that, it also can reduce some of the felt recoil that is produced from Ruger 10/22 rifles. So, if the muzzle jump is affecting your accuracy, then you will be surprised at how a bolt buffer like this one can work to your advantage.

Try this polyurethane buffer from a renowned company – Tactical Solutions. The same company that has been known for manufacturing Ruger 10/22 aftermarket accessories and parts since 2002.

Their bolt buffers are a simple piece of polymer which may come in several color choices. As soon as you have it installed inside the receiver, the buffer will not be visible because of its clear design. Use a hammer gently if you have difficulties in pushing the buffer through the pin holes.

This will be quite a popular choice among Ruger 10/22 rifle owners who are looking for a budget bolt buffer. Similarly, they may want something that is not only affordable but also the best in quality and performance.

If this is what you are looking for yourself, then this bolt buffer is what you have been searching for. Do not be surprised if it works overtime to protect your receiver for a very long time.

The Tactical Solutions bolt buffer is the affordable solution to make sure that your Ruger 10/22 buffer bolt is in working order. Also at the same time, it can work to extend the life of your rifle.

Do not be surprised at how you will be able to use the same rifle for a decade down the road. All thanks to this handy little unit!

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2. Volquartsen

Volquartsen

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There are several really good reasons as to why recent gun owners and buyers are happy with this bolt buffer. First and foremost, they are able to install this with little to no problems. Secondly, the bolt action and the overall performance of their rifles are boosted by quite a bit.

One user mentioned how it eliminated a bit of recoil that is enough for him to control his rifle. He was able to make straighter and more accurate shots.

The reason why this bolt buffer stands out to a lot of people, including us, is that it is all black. It makes things easier for it to blend in with most rifles. You will not even know it is there once you have installed it.

It is a small little piece that cab fit in most rifles with the intent to get rid of any annoying clang noises that comes with the territory of metal on metal contact.

Obviously it can also protect the rifle’s receiver from all kinds of wearing down. In summary, installing this can not only reserve the quality of your rifle. It can also reflect its top quality performance for sure also.

As it is a bolt buffer made by Volquartsen Firearms, it is a well-known brand in the firearms industry. It is primarily designed for Ruger 10/22 long rifles and Ruger 10/22 magnum rifles. It is made from polyurethane and makes the bolt buffer very clear.

You will not even see that it is there on your guns. However, you will still feel the difference after installing it. It’s easy to install and replace. And this buffer is an important and inexpensive upgrade for your Ruger 10/22 rifle.

This bolt buffer will likely fit on most Ruger 10/22 rifles that are more modern than the older models. Furthermore, it will be a great addition to those who want to get the best out of their rifles. Like recoil reductions and “looks brand new” kind of bolt and receiver.

If you wish to have your rifle looking good a few years down the road, you may want to give bolt buffers a consideration. Like this one.

The Volquartsen recoil buffer pin is tough and provides you with less clanging and banging. Those noises are quite common with most bolt action rifles. Do not be surprised if you notice immediate changes by the time you get this little unit installed on your rifle.

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3. KIDD Bolt Buffers

Once again, this is another bolt buffer that many gun owners and gun users are quite satisfied with. These gun owners and gun users mentioned that it is a solid piece of equipment that may take some time to install (with some issues).

However, once some finagling was said and done with, the operation is quite smooth. One gun user said he was able to move his bolt back and forth with more smoothness after installation.

Although it is not made from durable soft materials, it is still durable and long-lasting nonetheless. At the same time, it is one of the best aftermarket bolt buffers on the market currently.

Hence, of you are looking for something that can put the other aftermarket buffers to shame, you may want to consider this one. Other than that, the function is outstanding and does a great job reducing a lot of vibrations that occur with cycling.

We came to find out that Kidd is probably the most loved aftermarket manufacturer for Ruger 10/22 upgrades like many upgrades we have talked about. This bolt buffer from Kidd is a combination of hard rubber and steel. The pin is inserted in a hollow tube in the center of the rubber.

It is pretty obvious that the pin is also removable. It provides you with a rigid bolt pin buffer, with the toughness of steel inside and the softness of rubber on the outside. That way the battering sound is greatly reduced.

Also at the same time, Kidd provides a lifetime replacement guarantee for their worn out buffers. Hence, it is a win-win situation.

This may most likely fit in newer Ruger 10/22 models. It may not fit with older pre-2005 models. If you have a Ruger 10/22 rifle that you have recently bought, and you want to preserve and protect it from any damage that can be caused by cycling vibration or a worn-down bolt. Then you may be hard-pressed to find a bolt buffer like this one anywhere else.

The Kidd bolt buffer is a tough one. It is small enough to fit in most rifles, and it is strong enough to handle a lot of heavy-duty work. This tiny unit can take on just about anything that can shorten the longevity of a Ruger 10/22 rifle. Just install this and you will have a rifle that can give you a long time of reliable services.

4. Tuffer Buffer Bolt Buffer

Tuffer Buffer

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Once again, after much research, this bolt buffer unit is one that many gun owners and gun users are very happy with. They are able to install this in their Ruger 10/22 rifles in a matter of a few minutes.

As soon as the bolt buffer has been installed, it eliminates any noise that is made from metal on metal contact A user mentioned that it also made his bolt action a little smoother than previous usage.

This bolt buffer is made from high-quality material that are designed to prevent the bolt from wearing down. It is the kind of unit you will want if you want a long-lasting bolt action that will give you years of dependable services.

It is said that metal on metal contact will speed up the wearing down process. It is a solid and sturdy buffer like this one that can get the job done and prevent that from happening.

Should you know, these tuffer buffer bolts come as a single unit or in a pack of 3. It is made from heat resistant polyurethane, and the buffer comes in blue and is easy to install.

Just hold it at the hole and push it slightly inside. The company is based in Ontario, and it makes Ruger 10/22 buffers primarily. It will make your rifle quieter and protect the receiver from the blowback stress.

This will most likely be used for general purposes and be used by those who not only owns modern Ruger 10/22 builds. However, it can also fit older models also. Nonetheless, you will have something that can preserve and protect your rifle’s bolt action.

If you want a great buffer that can work really well with most Ruger 10/22 rifles, then the Tuffer Buffer may be exactly what you are looking for.

A lot of bolt buffer units are made of really durable materials in the market. However, there is no question that your bolt action will last you a long time without any wear and tear to contend with.

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Our Verdict

We can say that bolt buffers are among some of the bestselling upgrades and accessories for Ruger 10/22 rifles. If the buffer pins do not work out as promised, then that surely will not be the case. A polyurethane bolt buffer pin makes your rifle quieter and helps prevent it from suffering undue wear and tear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) some new gun owners and gun users may find useful.

Q: Are bolt buffers worth it?

There are a lot of debate about using bolt buffers or bolt pins. Unlike bolt which is deemed an essential, different gun owners and gun users have different opinions about it. Whether if you need a bolt buffer or not depends on your personal use of the Ruger 10/22 rifle. However, that leads to a basic question that many people have raised.

That question being why does Ruger not use buffers instead of pins, if they are more worthwhile so to speak.

The response or answer is most likely profit. As a gun maker, Ruger is buying metal in huge quantities. It is easier and cheaper for them to make metal pins than to create the polyurethane buffers.

Hence, even though we may not want to put the quality of the Ruger rifles into any doubt, we still have to be well informed that they are still trying to make a profit. Also, they make more of a profit not having to switch to polyurethane bolt buffers.

The Ruger 10/22 rifles work just fine without a polyurethane buffer after all. And it will not make a difference if you are not a sports shooter or sports hunter.

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