It comes already taken-down inside the custom nylon carry case. The case is nice, but I would have preferred a bit heavier fabric, and a bit more padding. Two outside pockets, one with PALS loops, with sleeves for two barrels (only the one that comes with the rifle available now), and another for the stock and receiver.
Of course, the big news is how the rifle takes down, shown here in pieces next to its "big brother".
Before I forget, that's the new Nikon 3-9x40 BDC scope on the Ruger target model. There was a $50 rebate on it, and I didn't want to spend more for the scope than the rifle itself, in this case. Even one that is proving itself to be amazingly accurate.
Here's the close-up of the Ruger's takedown system. Lock back the bolt, push forward the latch in the bottom of the forend, and twist 45 degrees clockwise.
The one thing that leaves me uneasy is the heat-coloring on the barrel stub that locks into the receiver. It indicates that the machine feeds-and-speeds were so fast the stainless steel was starting to "color". That should be a no-no, and my dad would have a cow if he saw something like that. I didn't see it until I got home, because I was in such a rush I never even opened the box while in the store. I'll check out their display rifle, if it's still there the next time I go. I expect it's all okay, but it just ain't cool in my book.
When everything is put back together, there's still a lot of open spaces. This rifle was designed for mass production, and not the precise hand-fitting needed for "old school" takedowns.
After the two halves are joined, the bolt is slammed forward a few times to make sure everything is seated, and then the knurled wheel is turned to make everything as tight as possible. Since there is no detent system, I suspect firing stresses will begin to loosen the wheel, requiring an occasional retightening. Compared to the target rifle, the takedown has about as much structural stiffness as soggy pasta.
Still, I put on an aftermarket bolt release, so I don't have to suffer through Ruger's version of how one should work. Purchases include an extended target-grade bolt handle and rail, a front barrel band with short pieces of Picatinny rail on it, and an aftermarket front and receiver-sight styled like the M16 iron sights. That little leaf sight just won't work for me, although I'll probably take it to the range before it arrives.
I'll at least learn how fussy an eater is compared to Big Brother. I'm sure there's one combination that will do best, but then again, there might not be a big spread in accuracy between known ammo specs. I might even temporarily put the Weaver rails on, and steal the same scope I used initially for Big Brother. That will give Little Bro a chance to do its best.
Because this is intended to remain a takedown rifle, there isn't any room for a big scope, or even a red dot. Except for the tiny Docter and clones, all of which cost more than the rifle, and none of which have a mount, yet, for the Ruger 10/22.
As my purchase was being completed, the store owner told me that they had already sold two of the rifles today. So I wasn't going to walk out the door without one. I don't think there will be any deep discounts until these models have a decent production run to keep them from being rarities. But I sure won't hold my breath until Ruger comes up with threaded barrels for this rifle, or their SR22 pistol.