Johnny,
I think you made a good choice for a .22 semi. Plus, there is so much that can be done with the 10/22.
My son called to wish us a Merry CHRISTmas today, and said he had been out with his 10/22 in the last week or so - still likes it.
He has offered it to me to trick out if I wish, but I have this thing, have had it for some years now, about wanting a 22 that will shoot the small groups over the bench. Now the 10/22 just might do it all tricked out with after market barrel/trigger etc.. but there is one more thing to consider.
My hunting rifles are at present bolt guns and it would be best to have a bolt 22 for plenty of pre season practice. This "need" really came home when my daughter was here for some practice before her first hunting season. I made up plenty of reduced loads for my wife's 270 that she was using, but to turn her loose with a like style of 22 would have been good as it is lighter and cheap to shoot.
If and when I get my targer quality rifle, I have thought it would be nice to pick up a 10/22 or take up on my son's offer just because they are such great fun to shoot!!!
I think you made a far better choice with your new 10/22 then I did a couple years ago when I bought a Thompson Center "classic .22". From what I read, it is a love/hate thing about the "classic" and you can read my feelings about it under this RIMFIRE RIFLES forum - sub headings of "good rifle for under $200" and "thoughts about the TC Classic."
If you have not done so already, check out Rimfire Central for a lot more information.
Enjoy your new rifle, thanks for the posting about what you went through to get it. I hope lots of people read and take heed!
Keep em coming! :wink: