What red-dot for a 10/22?

[ChristopherG]

Hey, folks, I just picked up a 10/22, and I'm looking forward to lots of fun shooting with it. I haven't shot one of these since I was about 10. While at the MegaLoMart where I bought it, I decided on impulse to try a cheap red dot scope. Alas, when I got home and tried to put the two together, I learned that the 'weaver style rail' this scope is supposed to mount onto is significantly wider than the skinny rail on the Ruger. So my question: do I have to take this (admittedly cheap and experimental) red-dot back for another, or is there some way to make it work? Thanks for your sagacity.
Cg

 

[hps1]

My 10/22 International did not have a rail; it was drilled and tapped for regular Weaver base. Do the newer ones have an integral rail? If not, you can probably install the standard base.

 

[ChristopherG]

Well, it came with a rail you screw on the top, but it's just too skinny. I have to qualify this by adding that I'm a total ignoramus where rifles are concerned, and it's entirely possible I'm overlooking the most obvious thing in the cosmos.
cg

 

[Kharn]

By rail on the reciever, do you mean the two small grooves on the top of the reciever, or does your rifle have something that looks like this mounted on top:

If not, you probably need one, follow this link to get one: http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=16126
Or, ask your gunshop (Walmart might have one, but doubtful) for a "Ruger 10/22 Weaver scope mount", they'll either have one or know where you can find one.

Kharn

 

[bedlamite]

You need the Weaver TO-9 rail.

 

[Pappy John]

Bedlamite nailed it. I have one on my 10/22, but couldn't remember what Weaver called it.

 

[ChristopherG]

Just got back from some errands. Thanks for your encyclopedic knowledge and help, folks.
CG

 

[Kharn]

Oh, forgot to mention, the one I linked above is a little expensive ($30ish, cause its "tactical" or whatever), search around more on Brownells and you'll probably find a Weaver brand (Weaver is both a brand and a specification) one for $10-15.

Kharn

 

[MiniZ]

A T-09 should run you about $10-$15. This is the first mod I make to any 10/22 I buy. I can't stand the skinny 3/8 dovetail mount.

 

[Engineer]

A T-09 is definitely the way to go, although you may have to mill out another channel for your red dot. Here's a Tasco mounted on my 10/22

 

[ChristopherG]

Well, this afternoon I got the T-09, strapped the red dot on, and had a blast. The unlimited eye relief and instant acquisition make it really fun, and it's precise enough to work for me. Thanks for the help.
CG