Improved Magnum Research Ultra rifles and 10/22 upgrade barrels

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The Magnum Research MLR Ultra model MLR22ATU. (Photo credit: M.R.)

Magnum Research has developed updated versions of their MLR — MagnumLite Rimfire — rifle with and without a an optional threaded barrel for use with a suppressor. The new MLR Ultra rifles are chambered for .22 Long Rifle and uses the same hybrid barrel design as the other MLR rifles by Magnum Research.

These are a different breed of rifle with a lightweight composite bull barrel. Magnum Research’s MLR series rifles have a barrel with a steel core encapsulated by an internal graphite heatsink contained in a thin aluminum sleeve. The barrel is capped at the breech and muzzle with stainless steel barrel extensions.

The two models are the MLR22ATU is the MLR22ATUT. The MLR22ATUT has the threaded muzzle extension and comes with a matching stainless steel thread protector. The cap is threaded for 1⁄2 x 28 muzzle devices and the thread protector is knurled for tool-less installation and removal.

Their unique barrel design makes these rifles excel in the accuracy department and the high thermal dissipation rate allows shooters to shoot all day without appreciable point-of-impact shift. Because the barrels are largely graphite they are lightweight and extremely rigid.

Additionally they have benchrest-style target stocks that free-float the barrel. The barrels are modular and Magnum Research sells barrels separately for users looking to swap theirs out for a .22 Magnum barrel.

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Model MLR22ATUT. Optics and muzzle devices sold separately. (Photo credit: M.R.)

The MLR Ultra comes standard with the black ambidextrous synthetic MLR thumbhole stock and even with a full-length 18-inch 1-in-16 twist barrel it weighs only 4.5 pounds. The threaded model is slightly longer with an 18.5-inch barrel.

The stock has a 13.625-inch length of pull for shooter of all sizes and the palmswell is checker for a solid grip in all conditions. Designed for use with an optic the stock has an integral cheek riser.

The receiver has a raised, railed upper receiver for Weaver mounts and other features include a match Bentz chamber, extended magazine release and the rifle comes with swivel studs pre-installed.

Despite the excellent performance and high standards of MLR rifles they are surprisingly affordable. The MSRP is just $544 for the base model and $571 for the threaded version. We expect real world pricing to be even lower.

MLR rifles draw on the Ruger 10/22 design and use 10/22 triggers and magazines. And MLR barrels can be used to build or upgrade other 10/22 rifles. Magnum Research will be selling the threaded barrels separately for existing MLR owners who want to run their rifles suppressed.

Whether you’re looking for a plinker, an entry-level match-grade target rifle or a precision small game-getter, it’s worth checking out these Magnum Research rifles. They’re real sleepers in the crowded .22 rifle market. You pay a little more for one of these but you definitely get your money’s worth.

For more information about Magnum Research products, visit the company website.

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