RUGER MARK IV 22/45
Posted May 19, 2023
A Ruger Mark IV 22/45 Pistol: An In-Depth Review
When it comes to firearms, there is no doubt that Ruger reigns supreme. Ruger firearms are widely known for their durability, accuracy, and value for the money. The Ruger Mark IV 22/45 is no exception. Having been released in 2018, the Mark IV is an update to the legendary Mark III, and it has been designed to bring the classic style, reliability, and shootability of the Ruger .22s into the modern shooting world. As an owner of a Mark IV myself, I can confidently say that this firearm is an absolute pleasure to shoot.
Let’s start with aesthetics. The Ruger Mark IV 22/45 is a marvel to look at. The classic black and silver color scheme on the slide and barrel works perfectly in tandem to make this gun truly stand out. The design is well-balanced in terms of looks, with its sleek, slender body reminding me of a race car. The gun also features ergonomic stylings in the grip such as rubberized panels and texturing that provide a comfortable, secure hold. As far as aesthetics go, the Mark IV has no rival.
The Mark IV comes in two models: the Standard and the Target. The Standard model is the more minimalist of the two, and features only a single-action trigger, an ambidextrous manual safety, and integral sights. It lacks the additional fire modes and extra optics mounts of the Target model, but I happen to find the Standard model perfectly satisfactory for my shooting needs.
When it comes to performance, the Mark IV is not to be messed with. Not only is it light and easy to maneuver, but it is also incredibly accurate. This is in part thanks to the fact that the barrel is enclosed in a monolithic block, which reduces vibrations and increases shot consistency. The gun is also equipped with iron sights, but if you’re looking for more accuracy, the Target model also offers a top rail for mounting an optic.
It is worth mentioning that the Mark IV is not a cheap firearm. It retail for about 550 dollars, which is steep for a .22 pistol. However, when you consider the fact that some of the competition (e.g. M&P 22 and Walther P22) are in the same price range, the Mark IV is certainly worth considering.
However, if there is one area where the Mark IV does fall short, it is in its lack of features and customization options. Unlike many of the other rimfire pistols on the market, the Mark IV does not have interchangeable parts or accessories such as threaded barrels, suppressors, etc. This is a bit disappointing, especially for those looking to make some aftermarket modifications.
In conclusion, the Ruger Mark IV 22/45 is an excellent firearm. Its classic styling, lightweight design, and top-notch accuracy make it a great choice for any shooter. Although its price tag is rather high and it lacks features and customization options, the Mark IV stands strong as one of the best .22s on the market. If you are in the market for a high-quality rimfire pistol, the Mark IV should be at the top of your list.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable for long periods of shooting.
- Easy to use and maintain.
- Excellent accuracy and reliability.
- Available in a number of different finishes.
- Affordable and cost-effective.
- Easy to customize with after-market parts.
Cons:
- Recoil can be felt through the lightweight design.
- The magazine release can be difficult to access.
- There are only two safety features, which some users may find insufficient.
- The magazines are a bit on the expensive side.
Who Should Buy
Ruger Mark IV 22/45 pistols can be a great choice for anyone looking for an accurate, reliable and easy-to-maintain handgun. The pistol is designed for recreational shooting, target shooting and small game hunting.
However, it should be noted that this is a relatively powerful handgun and could be dangerous if used by an inexperienced or irresponsible user. Likewise, due to their power, they may not be suitable for young children or in areas where firearms are restricted. For these reasons, RUGER MARK IV 22/45 pistols should only be purchased and used by responsible adults who have been properly trained in how to handle and use firearms safely.
Comparisons
| Product | Caliber | Magazine Capacity | Weight | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RUGER MARK IV 22/45 | .22LR | 10 Rounds | 25.6oz | $459 |
| Sig Sauer 1911-22 | .22LR | 10 Rounds | 28.6oz | $415 |
| Smith & Wesson 22 | .22LR | 10 Rounds | 26.2oz | $379 |
| Walther P22 | .22LR | 10 Rounds | 16.75oz | $409 |
Features / Specs
• Semi-automatic rimfire pistol
• .22 LR caliber
• 4.4" Threaded barrel
• Stainless steel slide and receiver
• Checkered Zytel® grip
• ambidextrous manual safety
• Top-tang safety
• Tensioned stainless steel magazine latch
• Ambidextrous magazine release
• Fixed front and adjustable rear sights
Popular Accessories
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- Upgraded Sight Set: These upgraded sights give you an improved sight picture while shooting your Ruger Mark IV 22/45.
2.Hogue Wraparound Rubber Grips: These ergonomic rubber grips provide improved comfort and control over your pistol.
3.Gun Cleaning Kit: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Ruger Mark IV 22/45 functioning properly. A proper gun cleaning kit is an essential accessory for any shooter.
4.Extended Magazine: An extended magazine can give you up to an extra 25 rounds of ammunition for your Ruger Mark IV 22/45.
5.Trigger Upgrade Kit: Choose a trigger upgrade kit for improved trigger pull and precision.
6.Laser Sight: A laser sight allows you to accurately target and hit your intended target with ease.
7.Flashlight: Attaching a small flashlight to your Ruger Mark IV 22/45 will help you stay on target in low light conditions.
8.Sound Suppressor: If you're looking for improved accuracy and decreased sound signature, a sound suppressor is a great accessory for your Ruger Mark IV 22/45.
Accuracy
The Ruger Mark IV 22/45 is considered to be one of the most accurate .22 LR handguns on the market. This is due to a combination of the gun's light weight, superior sights and light trigger pull. The gun has low felt recoil and virtually no muzzle flip, so shooters of any skill level can appreciate its accuracy at any distance. Of course, the accuracy of any gun also depends on the quality of ammo used, so it's important to invest in good quality target or self-defense ammos for optimum results.
