Question about price on 10/22 Ruger

[eightmd]

I was thinking about trying out the Appleseed project and they recommend the Ruger 10/22 so I was thinking about getting one. I noticed the suggested retail price was like $319 for the compact and $379 for the sporter. I saw one at Big 5 for $239, and I think it was the compact. Would that be the best deal on one? Any suggestions on any other places to look?

I guess if I got the compact I would have to put on the sling mounts because it doesn't seem to come with them. Any other reasons to get one over the other?

Thanks for any information.

[roushstage2]

You can find them around for $200. If Big 5 is the closest store to you, it's probably worth it to buy from them instead of driving around, especially with gas as high as it currently is.

As for suggestions on where else to look, we need to know where you are

[Joe Register]

239 is good for the compact. The regular carbine goes on sale at ammo bros for 199 every few weeks, 209 at turners. The take down is fun and usually on sale for 299. Or you can pay in the 300s for somebodys used POS on the calguns trader with some accessories you dont want.

[eightmd]

What is the practical difference between the models? Like between the regular carbine and the compact?

[land locked]

Barrel length. Compact is 16" with fiber optic sights. The carbine is 18.5". Doesn't make too much of a difference in my opinion.

[Joe Register]

The compact has a shorter length of pull and a shorter stock. The newer ones have fiber optic sights. The compact also does not have a barrel band like the carbine so it could be a tad more accurate. I bought one for my son as the regular carbine is longer and heavier. If you want the lowest entry cost for new, get the standard carbine, ideally one made in that last few years or from early 2000s back. There was a run not that long ago with cheap crinkle paint finish that kinda sucked.