This is my first post! I just got a 10/22T and it is an EXCELLENT gun! It makes really tight groups and it likes CCI Mini Mags. I'm sorry your friend's gun isn't up to par. I think Ruger would be more than happy to replace the barrel. They are a great company to deal with for stuff like that - they stand behind their products 100%. All you've got to do is get in touch with 'em and send it in.
If the barrel has a bulge in it I think it would definitely affect accuracy. I hope you can get the problem corrected.
If the barrel has a bulge in it I think it would definitely affect accuracy. I hope you can get the problem corrected.