Sherwood,
IMO they are very popular for a reason. A 10/22 was my first firearm and it has a manufacturer date of 1968. As time has gone on I have equipped each member of my family with one as well.
I find the extended magazine release to be the worst of the modern upgrades. It will cause more problems than it solves for most practical purposes.
If you find the trigger lacking, it's one of the few semi-autos that allows for an easy fix. Ruger's BX option is affordable and functional.
I would avoid extended capacity magazines. The 10 round factory's work very well.
Congratulations on a fine purchase.
