Ruger Mark IV Target .22 LR 5.5″ Bull, Blued, 10rd
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Ruger Mark IV Target .22 LR 5.5″ Bull is a full-size, single-action semi-automatic rimfire pistol engineered specifically for target shooting and precision range work. This platform represents the fourth-generation evolution of Ruger's legendary .22 pistol, incorporating significant mechanical improvements over previous models while maintaining its core mission of delivering reliable, affordable accuracy. It arrives configured with a bull-profile barrel and adjustable sights, making it a practical and straightforward choice for shooters focused on mechanical fundamentals over tactical applications.
What is the Ruger Mark IV Target .22 LR used for?
This pistol is used for deliberate target shooting, foundational marksmanship training, and entry-level competitive rimfire disciplines. Its 5.5-inch bull barrel provides a stable 35.5-ounce platform that dampens muzzle flip, while the single-action trigger promotes disciplined shot cadence. Compared to a compact defensive pistol like a Glock 19, the Ruger focuses entirely on controlled-range accuracy and is not designed for concealed carry or rapid defensive engagements, lacking features like accessory rails or striker-fired operation.
How does the Ruger Mark IV Target compare to the Browning Buck Mark?
The Mark IV Target surpasses the Browning Buck Mark in one critical area: takedown and reassembly speed. Ruger's patented one-button takedown mechanism allows field-stripping this pistol in under 20 seconds for cleaning, while most Buck Mark variants require an Allen key and more involved disassembly of the rear sight assembly. However, the Browning often comes out of the box with a superior target trigger, with many models featuring a crisper break around 2.5-3 lbs compared to the Ruger's stock pull, which typically measures between 4-5 lbs.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The pistol weighs 35.5 ounces (just over 2.2 pounds) and measures 9.75 inches in overall length with a 5.5-inch barrel. The bull barrel contour has a diameter of approximately 0.875 inches at the muzzle, contributing both to its weight-forward balance for steadiness and its clean, classic aesthetic. This makes it roughly the same length as some compact rifles, like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win when considered without its stock, but it remains a dedicated handgun platform.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for the shooter seeking a modern tactical trainer, suppressor host, or plinking gun for casual use. Its blued finish requires more diligent maintenance to prevent rust than a stainless or nitride finish, especially in humid environments. The single-action operation and manual thumb safety make it a poor analog for training with a modern defensive pistol, and its lack of an integrated accessory rail limits the direct mounting of weapon lights or lasers without an adapter.
What's in the box?
Included are the pistol, two 10-round steel box magazines, a basic cable lock, and the owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, Ruger does not include a hard case, instead using a cardboard box with foam insert; budget an extra $30-$50 for a proper plastic pistol case. The inclusion of two magazines is sufficient for most range sessions, allowing for a 20-round string of fire before a reload, which is adequate for slow-fire target work but might feel limiting for rapid-fire drills.
Is the Ruger Mark IV Target worth it at $539.99?
At $539.99, this pistol presents a solid value for the shooter who prioritizes straightforward mechanical design and legendary reliability over out-of-the-box target-grade features. You are paying for Ruger's extensive aftermarket support, the vastly improved Mark IV takedown system, and a platform proven over decades. For the price, you can expect to spend another $100-$150 on a quality red dot mount and potentially a trigger kit to truly optimize it for competition, placing its effective total cost closer to $650-$700 for a fully refined setup.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- One-button takedown disassembles for cleaning in under 20 seconds – a massive improvement over previous Mark series pistols.
- Weighs 35.5 oz with a 5.5-inch bull barrel for excellent stability and minimal muzzle rise during strings of fire.
- Receiver is pre-drilled and tapped for a #3-48 screw pattern, accepting most common Picatinny or Weaver-style optic mounts directly.
- Includes two 10-round magazines, allowing for a 20-round session before reloading during deliberate practice.
Trade-offs
- The blued steel finish is prone to showing wear and requires more frequent oiling to prevent corrosion than a modern nitride or cerakote finish.
- The factory single-action trigger averages 4.5-5 lbs with noticeable creep, often requiring a $100+ aftermarket kit for serious target work.
- Lacks an integrated accessory rail, necessitating a separate clamp-on rail ($25-$40) for mounting a weapon light or laser.
Key attributes
| upc | 736676401833 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 40183 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 5.50" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 14.9500 |
| model | Mark IV |
| mount type | Steel |
| number of magazines | 2 |
| package height | 3.6 |
| package width | 10.8 |
| product type | Target |
| safety | Ambidextrous |
| shipping weight | 4.1 |
| sights | Adjustable Rear Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Front/Adj Rear |
| slide description | Steel |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with a suppressor?
- Yes, the 5.5-inch bull barrel has 1/2"-28 threads under the included thread protector cap, making it directly compatible with most .22 caliber suppressors from SilencerCo, Dead Air, and Rugged. The single-action operation also significantly reduces port noise compared to a blowback pistol, making it a quiet and reliable host.
- Does it fit Glock 19 holsters?
- No, the Ruger Mark IV's profile is completely different and will not fit any holster designed for a Glock 19 or similar compact striker-fired pistol. You will need a holster specifically molded for the Mark IV series with a bull barrel; Blade-Tech and Hogue are two manufacturers that offer suitable OWB competition models.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items, Ironclad Armory processes and ships within 2 business days. Transit time typically adds 3-5 business days via UPS or FedEx to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder. Always contact your FFL for their transfer procedures and fees before ordering.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, due to federal regulations, firearms cannot be returned once transferred through an FFL unless the firearm is defective. We strongly recommend handling this or a similar model at a local dealer to assess grip ergonomics before purchasing. The grip angle is a classic 1911-style, which differs significantly from modern polymer pistols.
- Does this work with Volquartsen accurizing kits?
- Yes, the Ruger Mark IV has extensive aftermarket support. Volquartsen's target trigger kits, extractors, and bolt assemblies are direct drop-in upgrades for this model and are a common path for competitors seeking to reduce trigger pull weight below 2.5 pounds and improve reliability with standard-velocity ammunition.