The Ruger Mark series has been a staple in the rimfire pistol world for over 70 years, starting with the original Standard model back in 1949. Since then, it’s seen several updates – Mark I, Mark II, Mark III – and now, the Mark IV. While all previous versions were solid in their own right, the Mark IV is hands down the most refined and shooter-friendly iteration to date. Whether you’re a plinker, a small-game hunter, or a competitive shooter, there’s a lot to love. But as with any firearm, there are a few things to consider before making the leap. Let’s break down the nine most important reasons why the Ruger Mark IV stands above its predecessors – and most of its competition.
1. Tool-Free Takedown: The Best Upgrade Yet
If you’ve ever owned a Ruger Mark I, II, or III, you know the pain of disassembly. The infamous takedown procedure often involved a rubber mallet, plenty of trial and error, and more than a few swear words. That’s all changed with the Mark IV.
With a single push-button takedown system, the upper receiver tilts up and off the lower grip frame with ease. No tools, no pounding, and no guesswork. It’s one of the most significant ergonomic and functional improvements Ruger could have made. You can clean and service the gun in seconds – and that alone makes it worth the upgrade.
2. Rock-Solid Accuracy with Any Ammo
Ruger’s Mark IV isn’t just easier to clean – it’s a tack driver. What makes it unique among rimfire pistols is its bolt-driven design, which slides inside the receiver like a rifle bolt rather than using a reciprocating slide. This closed design provides tight lock-up and improved alignment, allowing the gun to shoot a wide variety of ammunition with excellent consistency.
It doesn’t matter if you’re running cheap bulk .22 or high-end CCI or Eley match ammo – chances are, the Mark IV will shoot it well. That kind of versatility is rare in rimfire handguns, and it’s a huge plus for shooters who don’t want to be picky about ammo.
3. It’s Optics-Ready – No Matter the Model
Regardless of which version of the Mark IV you choose, every model is drilled and tapped from the factory. That means you can mount an optic rail or scope base without having to make permanent modifications. Some versions even come with rails pre-installed.
Whether you prefer a red dot for fast target acquisition or a scope for precision work, the Mark IV is ready to accommodate. This flexibility adds serious value and extends the pistol’s usefulness well beyond just casual plinking.
4. A Massive Aftermarket Means Limitless Customization
Few rimfire pistols have a following as loyal and dedicated as the Ruger Mark series, and the Mark IV is no exception. Its popularity has led to a thriving aftermarket that includes everything from match-grade triggers and competition barrels to custom bolts, magazine releases, grips, and more.
Want to turn your Mark IV into a suppressed pistol for varmint control? No problem. Want a tricked-out competition rig with a custom fluted barrel and fiber optic sights? Done. Companies like Volquartsen and Tandemkross offer parts that let you build the exact pistol you want.
If you’re a tinkerer or someone who likes to tailor gear to your needs, the Mark IV might just be your new favorite playground.
5. Consistent Ergonomics, But Plenty of Options
One of the best aspects of the Mark IV is that it retains the general feel and form factor of the original Mark I. If you’ve shot a Ruger rimfire before, it’s going to feel familiar in your hands. But Ruger also recognized that not all shooters want the same thing, so they’ve released multiple frame variants – everything from heavy-barreled target models to the 22/45 series, which mimics the grip angle of a 1911.
These choices allow you to pick a version that matches your hand size, balance preference, and shooting goals. Whether you want a competition-ready bull barrel or a lightweight alloy-framed trail gun, there’s a Mark IV for you.
6. Threaded Barrel Models Exist – But Choose Carefully
If you plan to run a suppressor on your .22 pistol, the Mark IV is one of the best platforms for it. However, not every model comes with a threaded barrel. Ruger has released a handful of tactical and target models with 1/2×28 threaded muzzles, but the majority of the lineup still comes with standard barrels.
This means you need to do your homework before buying. Picking a non-threaded model and trying to retrofit it later is neither easy nor cheap. But if you get the right variant from the start, you’ll be set up for whisper-quiet range sessions or pest control outings.
7. Magazine Compatibility Can Trip You Up
Here’s a small but important detail: Mark IV magazines are not cross-compatible with Mark IV 22/45 models. While they share the name, the frames are different – and so are the mags. That’s caused a lot of confusion for buyers who pick up the wrong extras and wonder why they don’t work.
Make sure you double-check whether you’re buying for a standard Mark IV or a 22/45. They’re not interchangeable, and mixing them up can lead to frustration at the range – or worse, a wasted purchase.
8. Not All Models Are Lightweight
Don’t let the sleek design fool you – the Mark IV can be a heavy piece of hardware. Depending on the barrel length and material, weight can range from under 30 ounces to over 50. That’s comparable to some full-frame revolvers.
Some shooters love that extra heft for balance and reduced recoil, especially in bull-barreled models. But if you’re planning to carry it in the field or keep it on your hip for long outings, weight might become a factor. Always check the specs before you buy. That “compact” model might surprise you once it’s in your hand.
9. The Magazine Disconnect: Love It or Hate It
The Mark IV comes equipped with a magazine disconnect safety. This means the gun won’t fire unless the magazine is fully inserted – even if there’s a round in the chamber. For some shooters, that’s a welcome safety feature. For others, it’s an annoying limitation.
While it’s possible to deactivate the disconnector, doing so voids your warranty and may not be advisable for everyone. The disconnect also has a slight impact on trigger feel – adding a touch of grit or weight that might matter to competitive shooters. Depending on your priorities, this could be a mild inconvenience or a major deal breaker.
A Timeless Classic, Perfected
The Ruger Mark IV represents the best of both worlds: it’s a continuation of a historic design and a modernized platform that delivers in nearly every category. From the game-changing takedown system to its impressive accuracy and broad aftermarket support, this pistol is a true standout in the rimfire world.
Yes, it has a few quirks. The mag disconnect, weight, and model confusion can trip up new owners. But those are easily outweighed by the benefits – especially if you take time to research and select the right variant for your needs.
If you’re looking for a .22 pistol that blends classic styling with modern innovation, the Ruger Mark IV isn’t just a great option – it’s arguably the best version yet.
And that’s why, when it comes to rimfire pistols, these 9 reasons make the Mark IV the top dog in Ruger’s legendary lineup.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, John developed a love for the great outdoors early on. With years of experience as a wilderness guide, he’s navigated rugged terrains and unpredictable weather patterns. John is also an avid hunter and fisherman who believes in sustainable living. His focus on practical survival skills, from building shelters to purifying water, reflects his passion for preparedness. When he’s not out in the wild, you can find him sharing his knowledge through writing, hoping to inspire others to embrace self-reliance.