Modify the WHM Cocking Handle to fit the 10/22

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Beef Up Your Cocking Handle
Modifying the 10/22 Magnum Cocking Handle to fit the 10/22. This is an easy Mod that anyone can do with simple tools. The result is a larger quicker to grab cocking handle. Also a tip to do on your guide rod, this will make the action seem very smooth to operate, and you may also notice fewer stovepipe jams on a "new" rifle.

As you can see from the pic. the Magnum assembly is about 3/8" longer, and deeper. It gives it the big rifle feel.

You can purchase the Magnum assembly from Ruger, I got mine from Numerich gun parts. Cost $7.50

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Disassembly
First step is to tape the jaws of a vice, or c-clamp or best is to use vice grips. This is to prevent tool marks on the "guide rod" while working.

Next place pointed end of down against your working surface (don't use momma's table or you'll get killed! :( ). Press down on cocking handle to compress recoil spring a couple inches or so, then clamp tightly into position. Select a working surface that is uncluttered, because you may be looking for the cocking handle follower. It is small and can fly far.

Using a file or better yet a Dremel (I love using the Dremel), and remove the peen just enough to allow the cocking handle to be removed. Don't over do it as you will have to re-peen later. This may take several trials, a little at a time.

When you unclamp the guide rod, be careful The cocking handle, cocking handle follower (small bushing), and recoil spring can fly far! :o

Repeat the above with the Magnum and LR assemblies.

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Here is the two assemblies unassembled.

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Bonus Tip
Since you have the LR guide rod in your hand inspect it. Mine was very rough. This is the part that causes most stovepipe jams on a "new" 10/22 till you fire 500 rnds. or so thru it. This is a good time to inspect, and improve its performance. I used 220 grit, and then 320 grit or 400 grit to smooth the guide rod. Next clean all the grit, and metal dust using CLP or other solvent. I then coated the guide rod with Tetra gun grease. This is good stuff. It bonds to the metal providing a dry lubed surface that won't attract dust. When you get your rifle back together, you will notice the difference. :D

Assembly
Now replace the LR spring, follower, and Magnum cocking handle onto the LR guide rod, compress the spring a couple of inches or so, and re-clamp. Make sure you have the cocking handle on correctly!

Peening the guide rod
Do not place the pointed end down and hammer on the peen end. This will bend your guide rod and you will have to buy another! :eek:

Use the anvil on the rear of a vice. I used a cement step ( It may chip the cement). Lay the guide rod end across the anvil. Carefully "smack" the very end where the peen mark is a couple times with a hammer. This will slightly flatten the end, causing it to expand across the end. Carefully remove the clamp and see if the cocking handle is peened on. If not repeat.

Note: be very careful not to hammer mark the guide rod or the cocking handle and follower won't slide freely.

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Reassemble rifle, and check out the action. You will notice the handle is easier to grasp, and the bolt slides rearward more smoothly.

Your done good job! :D