I purchased a brand new Ruger 10/22 in preparation for an Appleseed event. While upgrading some of its internals and getting to know a rifle I noticed three things that I really wish I could improve. None of these affect the operation of the rifle, but I'd appreciate some advice because I also enjoy when my things look nice and are well maintained. Thank you!
Peeling Clear Coat (??) in Bolt Opening
Pic: https://i.imgur.com/zlhaAbO.jpeg
Is this clear coat (not sure if that's the right term) something that's expected to rub off as part of breaking in the rifle? Or is it there to protect from rust and I damaged it? Getting rid of those flakes will be easy, but I'd like to restore that coating to the receiver if it's actually meant to protect the metal.
Small Black Spots on Receiver
Pic: https://i.imgur.com/fljBQ2h.jpeg
Is this rust? Some kind of paint overspray from the factory? I know this is a super small issue, but I'd like to get rid of them because the stainless steel receiver is gorgeous.
Remove Witness Line on Trigger Guard
Pic: https://i.imgur.com/ePRO4di.jpeg
Another minor issue. I'd like to somehow sand it away, but gently enough not to damage the surrounding coat. Has anyone tried this? Could maybe wet sending with a super fine sheet of sandpaper do the trick?
1. Ruger 10/22 receivers are painted, cast aluminum. The "silver" receivers are clear-coated. The peeling paint on the exterior of the receiver is a defect which the factory should have caught. The problem for you is that the receiver is the serialized part and if they want you to send it in, and then they replace it, you'll have to have it sent to your FFL, do a 4473, and pay their transfer fee to take possession of the new receiver. Still, I'd call Ruger customer service and ask them what should be done; their CS people are excellent. I suppose a good, local powder-coat or paint shop could easily strip and re-coat the receiver. If you go that route, be sure they mask off the inside of the receiver carefully. That should be bare, smooth aluminum so that the bolt can cycle smoothly. But bottom line, other than having Ruger re-paint the receiver under warranty, the fixes are expensive and you have to ask if this rifle is worth the expense. The original 10/22s in 1964-66 weren't painted but anodized a deep blue-black, in an attempt to make them look like blued steel. It didn't match so well. Ruger switched to paint quickly for cost reasons.
2. Black dots are the same. This receiver was improperly prepped before painting.
3. The mold line on the trigger guard is on all of the polymer trigger housings, used for about twenty years now. I wouldn't worry about it. Anything you do to try to get rid of it will change the texture of the surrounding plastic and make the whole thing look terrible.
None of these will affect the function of your rifle, so go ahead and use it all you want and enjoy your Appleseed.
Fireman Bob always gives great answers to rifle problems. Your rifle has some small finish defects, don't worry, with time and use it will become a grizzled veteran.