The Definitive Guide to the Ruger Mark IV Target .22 LR Pistol: Precision, Performance, and Unmatched Ease of Use
Are you searching for the ideal rimfire pistol that combines pinpoint accuracy with unparalleled ease of maintenance? Whether you're a seasoned target shooter, a new enthusiast learning the ropes, a dedicated plinker, or someone seeking a reliable handgun for small game hunting, the
Ruger Mark IV Target .22 LR is engineered to exceed your expectations. This iconic semi-automatic pistol, specifically the
Ruger 40159 Mark IV Target model with its 5.50" blued steel bull barrel and distinctive target laminate grips, redefines what shooters can expect from a modern rimfire firearm.
For decades, the Ruger Mark series has been synonymous with .22 LR shooting excellence. The Mark IV builds upon this legacy, addressing the most common feedback from previous generations to deliver a product that is not just accurate and dependable, but also incredibly user-friendly. One of the primary questions many shooters have about rimfire pistols is, "How easy is it to clean?" The Mark IV provides a revolutionary answer to this long-standing challenge.
Revolutionary One-Button Takedown: Simplifying Firearm Maintenance
Perhaps the most significant innovation in the Ruger Mark IV series is its game-changing,
simple one-button takedown. For anyone who has ever wrestled with the complex field-stripping process of older Mark series pistols, this feature alone is a revelation. With just a single button press on the back of the frame, the barrel and receiver assembly tilts up and off the frame, allowing for quick, straightforward field-stripping. This ingenious design completely eliminates the need for tools or cumbersome procedures, transforming what was once a time-consuming chore into a matter of seconds.
This ease of disassembly directly impacts the pistol's longevity and performance. Proper chamber-to-muzzle cleaning becomes effortless, ensuring optimal function, preventing carbon buildup, and maintaining the firearm's inherent accuracy over thousands of rounds. For competitive shooters who put a high volume of ammunition through their pistols, or recreational plinkers who value simplicity, this feature significantly reduces maintenance time and makes shooting more enjoyable. When considering a .22 LR pistol, the Mark IV's takedown system is a distinct advantage, answering the common query, "What is the easiest .22 pistol to clean?"
Engineered for Excellence: Barrel, Sights, and Reliability
At the heart of the
Ruger Mark IV Target (UPC: 736676401598) lies its dedication to precision. The 5.50"
cold hammer-forged bull barrel is a cornerstone of its renowned accuracy. Cold hammer forging is a process that creates a barrel with superior strength, concentricity, and a smoother internal finish, which directly translates to consistent bullet flight and tighter groups on target. The "bull barrel" designation refers to its heavy, non-tapered profile, which offers several benefits for a target pistol:
- Enhanced Accuracy: The added weight at the muzzle helps stabilize the pistol and reduces muzzle flip, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and more precise aim.
- Improved Heat Dissipation: The larger mass of the barrel helps dissipate heat more effectively during extended shooting sessions, preventing accuracy degradation due to barrel heating.
- Increased Durability: A thicker barrel is inherently more rigid and robust, contributing to the pistol's overall longevity.
For those asking, "What .22 pistol offers the best accuracy?", the Mark IV Target's barrel design is a strong contender.
The sighting system on the Mark IV Target is also designed for precision. It features a fixed front sight paired with an adjustable rear sight, allowing shooters to fine-tune their point of impact for different ammunition types or shooting distances. Furthermore, the receiver is
drilled and tapped, ready to accept a Weaver or Picatinny-style rail. This provides a versatile platform for mounting optics such as red dot sights, magnified scopes, or other aiming devices, catering to the specific needs of target shooters and competitive disciplines.
Reliability is paramount for any firearm, and the Mark IV Target delivers consistently. Its
internal cylindrical bolt construction is a key design element that ensures permanent sight-to-barrel alignment, eliminating potential shifts that could compromise accuracy. The
contoured ejection port and
easy-to-grasp bolt ears further contribute to its robust and reliable operation, minimizing the chance of malfunctions and allowing for smooth, uninterrupted shooting, round after round.
Ergonomics, Safety, and User-Centric Design
The
Ruger Mark IV Target isn't just about internal mechanics; its external design is equally focused on the shooter's experience. The pistol features
target laminate grips with finger grooves. These grips are not only aesthetically pleasing with their distinct pattern but are also ergonomically shaped to provide a comfortable and secure hold. The finger grooves promote a consistent grip for various hand sizes, enhancing control and reducing fatigue during long shooting sessions. A solid, comfortable grip is crucial for maximizing accuracy and enjoying your time at the range.
Safety is a top priority, and the Mark IV Target incorporates an
ambidextrous manual safety. This thoughtful design ensures that both right-handed and left-handed shooters can easily and intuitively operate the safety mechanism. For shooters who prefer a left-side-only safety, Ruger includes a washer that allows for this simple conversion, demonstrating a commitment to user adaptability. This feature is particularly valuable for training environments or for households where multiple shooters with different dominant hands might use the same pistol.
Weighing in at 35.80 ounces (approximately 2.24 pounds), the pistol strikes an excellent balance. This substantial weight, particularly in the steel frame and bull barrel, helps mitigate the already mild recoil of the .22 LR cartridge, making it incredibly stable in hand and highly enjoyable to shoot for extended periods. The overall length of 9.75 inches provides a good sight radius for precision shooting.
Versatility for Every Shooter and Scenario
The
Ruger Mark IV Target .22 LR is a truly versatile firearm, making it an excellent choice for a wide array of shooting disciplines and personal needs.
- Dedicated Target Shooting: Its inherent accuracy, excellent sight picture (with options for optics), and stable platform make it a top contender for competitive target shooting leagues and recreational marksmanship. It's often recommended when users ask, "What is the best .22 pistol for competitive shooting?"
- Affordable Plinking and Recreational Shooting: The .22 LR cartridge is one of the most cost-effective ammunition options available, making the Mark IV Target an ideal choice for high-volume recreational shooting without breaking the bank. Enjoy endless hours of plinking at the range with its 10+1 capacity.
- Firearm Training and Skill Development: For new shooters, the low recoil and affordable ammunition of the .22 LR make the Mark IV Target an outstanding platform for learning fundamental shooting skills such as grip, stance, sight alignment, and trigger control. Experienced shooters can also use it to hone their techniques and practice without the expense or fatigue associated with centerfire cartridges.
- Small Game Hunting and Varmint Control: With its precision accuracy, the Mark IV Target is well-suited for ethical small game hunting (where legal) and effective varmint control. Its reliability ensures consistent performance in field conditions.
- Collection and Investment: The Mark IV series represents a significant advancement in rimfire pistol design, making it a valuable addition to any firearm collection. Its robust construction and Ruger's reputation ensure lasting value.
Each
Ruger Mark IV Target 40159 pistol comes complete with
two 10-round magazines, ensuring you have ample capacity for extended shooting sessions right out of the box. The standard 10+1 capacity is suitable for most ranges and competitive events.
Why Choose the Ruger Mark IV Target from DEGuns?
When considering your next rimfire pistol, the
Ruger Mark IV Target .22 LR stands out as a superior choice. Its unique combination of features, from the groundbreaking one-button takedown system to the precision-engineered cold hammer-forged bull barrel, ensures a shooting experience that is both highly accurate and incredibly user-friendly. It addresses the common needs of shooters for reliability, ease of maintenance, and consistent performance, solidifying its reputation as a premier rimfire handgun.
For those seeking a firearm that offers exceptional value, enduring quality, and a truly enjoyable shooting experience, the
Ruger Mark IV Target (UPC: 736676401598) is an unmatched option. Experience the difference that thoughtful design and Ruger's commitment to excellence make. This versatile and robust pistol is readily available to enhance your shooting journey.
| Feature |
Detail |
| Brand |
Ruger |
| Category |
Rimfire Pistols |
| Series |
Target |
| Model |
Mark IV |
| Caliber |
.22 LR |
| Barrel Length |
5.50" |
| Capacity |
10+1 |
| Action |
Single Action Only (SAO) |
| Overall Length (OAL) |
9.75" |
| Frame Material |
Blued Steel |
| Hand Orientation |
Right Hand (Ambidextrous Safety) |
| Sight Style |
Contrast |
| Slide Finish |
Blued |
| Slide Material |
Steel |
| Optics Mount Type |
Drilled & Tapped (Weaver/Picatinny Ready) |
| Grips |
Target Laminate w/ Finger Grooves |
| Sight Configuration |
Fixed Front / Adjustable Rear |
| Included Accessories |
2 Magazines |
| Safety Features |
Ambidextrous Manual Safety (convertible to left-side only) |
| Barrel Description |
Bull Barrel, Cold Hammer-Forged |
| Max Capacity |
10 Rounds |
| Weight |
35.80 oz |
| Frame Description |
Blued Steel |
| UPC |
736676401598 |
