So I spent big bux on a 10/22. See what $$$$$ FA adds to an M16A2 over an AR-15A2. Check out prices for an American 180 (like $10,000 for "just a 22"). Since I bought the Norrell earlier this year I've seen 2 or 3 advertised at quite a bit more than I paid. And guess what - It'll be worth more next year. Who's laughing now?
Seriously, you can't lose going FA. I passed on a Colt RR last year for $8500 & TWO NIB MAC11/9s for $5000 total earlier this year. Now, I feel stupid. I'd really like an HK sear, but I'm too stupid to cough up the cash - at least for now.
Anyway, back to the 10/22. The Norrell integral suppressor is really quiet. I just installed a Weaponcraft buffer & this should quiet the action some. The loudest thing is the little 40 grain bullet hitting the target, but alot of suppressed 22's are like this. The nice thing about the Norrell is that it slows supersonic ammo to subsonic. Dynapoints & CCI minimags come out of this thing like a string of baby farts. I've used hi cap Butler Creek steel lips & the cheap Eagles & they all work great. Another nice thing is that the 10/22 is alot like the AR - lots of aftermarket stuff. A FA Krinker Plinker with the short barrel sounds tempting. Finally, I won't break the bank shooting 22's all day long. And best of all, my wife likes it too.
PS - Here's another chuckle. My Colt M16A1 wears a Kuehl 22 upper & it has an ACOG on it too!