Volquartsen Summit IF-5 .22 WMR Review
Volquartsen’s Refined Action Adds A New Dimension To The Iconic 10/22 Platform
Volquartsen is a well-respected and very recognizable name in the rimfire game. Located in Carroll, Iowa, the company specializes in rimfire rifles and pistols whose design is influenced by, and some parts are compatible with, Ruger firearms. Volquartsen manufactures a wide variety of custom rimfire guns and general firearms accessories to meet every shooter’s needs, from competition to hunting or just plinking in the backyard.
Volquartsen Summit IF-5 Details
A fundamental truth about most firearms enthusiasts is that once we get past the basics, we almost invariably want to elevate our gear, particularly our guns. The Summit IF-5 chambered in .22 WMR is a prime example of that elevated gear. Like Volquartsen’s other rimfire rifles, the Summit is built on the Ruger 10-22 action, but it has a trick up its sleeve.
The Summit utilizes a straight-pull, toggle-bolt-action design rather than a semi-automatic operating system. The design allows for easier manipulation of the bolt with just a finger and ensures some parts compatibility with 10/22-style rifles. It also works well with a suppressor.
While .22 WMR isn’t used much for competition, the Summit IF-5 I received for review is more of a competition build. It incorporates a laminate thumbhole stock and a stainless steel action, as well as a stainless, heavy-profile barrel with I-flutes. The whole rig weighs a hair over 8 pounds.
While it could be pressed into hunting, the IF-5 is probably going to spend more time on a bench or some other type of rest punching paper or tagging a coyote at distance. Competition shooters can rest easy—a .22 LR version will soon be available. But for those who prefer to be on the move while hunting, there are plenty of other Summit configurations available that are lighter and have more traditional stocks.
The Summit IF-5 I received is a superb example of Volquartsen’s top-shelf work, with its beautiful lines and exquisite fit and finish. The rifle has a threaded barrel (1/2 x 28) and the company’s TGS Summit trigger group, which is adjustable for pre-travel and over-travel. The best part is that it offers a crisp, light 1.75-pound break that won’t distract you from making those ultra-precise shots downrange.
The Summit IF-5 On The Range
The Summit IF-5 definitely performed as you would expect for a rifle with a $1,739 price tag. The action of the toggle-bolt is fairly smooth and easy to engage with just a finger or two. I didn’t experience any hang-ups or any other snags. While fairly new to me, I had no issues acclimating to it quickly, thanks to Volquartsen’s design execution.
The Summit is quite the shooter, too. Hornady’s 30-grain Varmint Express is turning out fantastic groups already. At 50 yards, I’m averaging a hair over half an inch, and the best 100-yard group I’ve shot was 0.92 inches. I’m not what you’d call a disciplined precision shooter, but I’d say those groups are pretty impressive, considering the V-Max load is designed for critter control, not specifically for precision shooting.
The Volquartsen Summit is an impressive rifle and should be on your must-try list. If the IF-5 configuration isn’t your cup of tea, the company has plenty of different builds and calibers to meet your specific needs.
Specifications: Volquartsen Summit IF-5 .22 WMR
- Caliber: .22 WMR
- Action: Straight-pull, bolt-action
- Barrel: 18.5 inches
- OA Length: 37.25 inches
- Weight: 8.06 pounds (empty)
- Stock: Laminate thumbhole silhouette
- Sights: None, Picatinny rail
- Finish: Stainless steel
- Capacity: 9
- MSRP: $1,739
- Website: volquartsen.com
Check out more at https://volquartsen.com/inventory_configurations/6611
Pairs Well With: EOTECH’s Vudu 3.5-18x50 SFP
EOTECH’s Vudu 3.5-18x50 SFP scope with its robust construction, XC Hi-Density glass, throw lever for quick zooming and the HC1 reticle, is great for small-game and benchrest shooting. MSRP: $1,625 For more information, visit eotechinc.com or the EOTECH INSIDER page on hookandbarrel.com.