Ruger Mark IV Standard .22 LR 6″ Blued Fixed-Sight
Pros & cons
What works
- One-button takedown disassembles for cleaning in under 5 seconds — eliminates the frustrating reassembly puzzles of older Ruger .22 pistols.
- 43-ounce (1,220g) machined aluminum frame provides a stable, vibration-dampening platform for consistent shot-to-shot accuracy.
- Blued finish on the 4140 steel barrel resists corrosion better than some parkerized finishes, maintaining appearance with routine oiling.
- 1:16" right-hand twist rate stabilizes standard 40-grain .22 LR ammunition optimally across velocities from subsonic to high-velocity.
- Includes two 10-round magazines — avoids the single-magazine limitation common on many budget .22 pistols.
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights are not adjustable for windage without a sight pusher tool and drift punch — a factory oversight for a target-oriented pistol.
- Checkered synthetic grip panels lack the positive traction of stippled or aggressively textured aftermarket options, especially with wet or gloved hands.
- The 6-inch barrel length makes it legally cumbersome to configure as an SBR for suppressor use compared to the 4.5-inch 'Tactical' model.
- Blued finish, while classic, shows holster wear and handling marks more readily than modern Cerakote or nitride treatments.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Ruger Mark IV Standard .22 LR 6″ Blued Fixed-Sight is a simple, durable rimfire pistol built for straightforward target shooting and fundamental firearms training. It represents the latest evolution of a classic design, most notably incorporating a modern takedown system that dismantles the pistol with a single button press in under five seconds. Operating the Mark IV requires no specialized armorers’ tools, making it a mechanically honest platform for new shooters or experienced hands who appreciate a no-frills .22 pistol with a 43-ounce heft and 6-inch sight radius.
What is the Ruger Mark IV Standard used for?
The Ruger Mark IV Standard's primary use is foundational firearms training and economical recreational target shooting. The .22 Long Rifle chambering provides cost-effective practice, while the semi-automatic operation replicates the manual-of-arms for larger centerfire pistols. At an average ammunition cost of $0.08 per round versus $0.40 for 9mm, this model allows extended range sessions without financial fatigue, serving well for new shooter familiarization, seasoned marksmen maintaining skills, and informal varmint control on rural properties.
How does the Ruger Mark IV Standard compare to a Browning Buck Mark?
The Ruger Mark IV Standard's mechanical advantage over a Browning Buck Mark like the Camper model is its far simpler, truly one-button takedown versus the Buck Mark's internal bolt-guide disassembly requiring a hex key. Where the Buck Mark often ships with adjustable sights, the Ruger trades that for fixed, rugged simplicity that holds zero better under repeated field-stripping. For pure maintenance ease, the Ruger is superior; for those desiring immediate sight adjustment capability, the Browning may be preferable.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Ruger Mark IV Standard weighs 43 ounces (1,220 grams) unloaded and measures 9.75 inches in overall length. The 6-inch tapered barrel provides a sight radius of 8.6 inches from the fixed rear notch to the post front. Its single-magazine capacity reduces the loaded weight to approximately 46 ounces, while the one-piece machined aluminum grip frame contributes significantly to its solid in-hand feel compared to polymer-framed alternatives.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for shooters seeking a modern defensive pistol platform or those who require optical sight mounting as a baseline. The fixed, non-adjustable sights cannot be drifted for windage without a punch and hammer, and there is no provision for a red-dot optic on this factory configuration. It is also unsuitable for heavy-duty competition like steel challenge without significant aftermarket upgrades, unlike dedicated race guns from Volquartsen. Consider a platform like our Stevens 334 in .308 if your primary need is a lightweight hunting rifle.
What's in the box?
The box contains the pistol, two 10-round stainless steel magazines, a chamber safety flag, and an owner's manual with a detailed takedown schematic. Ruger includes a 1/8" Allen key for sight adjustments, though the sights are fixed from the factory. Unlike some competitors, no lockable case or additional tools are provided, reflecting the pistol's utilitarian purpose as a range tool rather than a presentation piece.
Is the Ruger Mark IV Standard worth it at $453.99?
At $453.99, the Ruger Mark IV Standard represents a fair market value for a machined-frame .22 pistol with excellent aftermarket support. You pay a slight premium over a Stevens 555 shotgun for mechanical refinement and the latest-generation takedown system. For a shooter who values durable simplicity and plans to keep the pistol for decades, the investment is sound. If your budget is tighter, consider used Mark II or III models, but understand you sacrifice the one-button takedown convenience.
Key attributes
| upc | 736676401055 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 40105 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | Satin Stainless |
| barrel length | 6" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 14.9000 |
| model | Mark IV |
| mount type | Drilled & Tapped |
| number of magazines | 2 |
| package height | 3.6 |
| package width | 10.8 |
| product type | Pistol |
| safety | Ambidextrous Manual |
| shipping weight | 3.8 |
| sights | Fixed Sights |
| sights type | FIXED |
| slide description | Steel |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with a suppressor?
- Yes, the 1/2" - 28 TPI threads are standard for .22 caliber suppressors. You must file the appropriate ATF Form 4 and pay the $200 tax stamp before taking possession of the suppressor itself from your local SOT. Direct-thread mounts from SilencerCo, Rugged, and Dead Air will all interface properly with the 6-inch barrel.
- Does the Mark IV Standard fit standard holsters?
- No, the Mark IV Standard's unique slab-sided barrel profile and fixed sights require a holster specifically molded for the Mark IV series. Universal nylon holsters will not retain it securely. We recommend Kydex or leather options from manufacturers like Versacarry or Simply Rugged, which have dedicated models for the 6-inch fixed-sight Ruger.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard ground shipping to your chosen Federal Firearms License holder takes 3-7 business days after payment processing and compliance verification are complete. Once the FFL receives the pistol, you must complete the ATF Form 4473 and pass the NICS background check before taking possession, a process that can add 1-3 days depending on state laws.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No. Federal law prohibits the return of firearms by non-licensees once the transfer is complete at your FFL. We strongly recommend handling a similar model at a local range or dealer before purchasing. The checkered synthetic grip panels provide a secure hold for medium to large hands, but those with very small hands may find the frame width challenging.
- Does this work with Volquartsen upgrades?
- Yes. Volquartsen produces a wide range of drop-in performance parts specifically for the Mark IV, including match-grade triggers, accurizing kits, and bolt upgrades. Their trigger kits can reduce pull weight from the factory 5-6 lbs down to a crisp 2.5 lbs. Installation typically requires basic gunsmithing punches and a trigger gauge to verify safety function.