Ruger Mark IV Pistols

The Ruger Mark IV is one of the most popular .22 LR pistol platforms for target shooting, rimfire training, suppressor use, and fun range days. It carries forward the classic Ruger rimfire pistol design, but with one major improvement that shooters appreciate immediately: simple one-button takedown.

At Deerford Defense, this collection brings together available Mark IV pistols, including Target, 22/45, 22/45 Lite, Tactical, Hunter, Competition, threaded-barrel models, stainless models, blued models, and distributor-exclusive variants depending on current inventory.

A Classic Rimfire Pistol Made Easier to Maintain

Older Ruger Mark-series pistols were loved for their accuracy and reliability, but they had a reputation for being annoying to take apart and reassemble. The Mark IV fixed that problem with a one-button takedown system. Press the button at the rear of the frame, and the barrel-receiver assembly tilts up and off the grip frame for cleaning.

That is a big deal on a .22 pistol. Rimfire ammunition is dirty, and a pistol that is easy to clean is more enjoyable to own, especially if you shoot often.

General Ruger Mark IV Specs

Exact specs vary by model, but most pistols in this family share a similar foundation:

Chambered in .22 LR

Common capacity of 10+1 rounds

Semi-automatic rimfire action

Internal cylindrical bolt design

One-button takedown system

Cold hammer-forged barrel

Manual safety

Adjustable rear sights on many models

Fixed, fiber optic, or target-style front sights depending on model

Bull barrel, slab-sided barrel, tapered barrel, or lightweight sleeved barrel options depending on configuration

Threaded-barrel models available on select variants

Common barrel lengths include 4.40″, 5.50″, and 6.88″, with other lengths available on certain models

The result is a rimfire pistol that can be set up as a simple range gun, a target pistol, a suppressor host, or a lightweight training pistol.

Target, 22/45, Lite, Tactical, Hunter, and Competition Models

The Mark IV Target is the classic place to start. These models usually have a more traditional Ruger grip angle, adjustable sights, and barrel profiles designed for steady rimfire shooting.

The 22/45 models use a grip angle and control feel closer to a 1911-style pistol. That makes them popular with shooters who want a rimfire trainer with familiar handling.

The 22/45 Lite trims weight with a lightweight upper receiver and often includes a threaded barrel. These are some of the most popular options for suppressor use, rimfire fun, and customized range builds.

Tactical models usually add features like threaded barrels and rail space for optics or accessories, making them a strong choice for shooters who want a more modern setup.

Hunter and Competition models lean toward precision and premium feel, often using longer barrels, stainless finishes, upgraded sights, and heavier profiles for target shooting or field use.

Why Shooters Like the Mark IV

The biggest reason people like this pistol family is that it is accurate, affordable to shoot, and easy to enjoy. .22 LR has very little recoil, which makes it great for new shooters, training, and long range sessions without burning through expensive centerfire ammo.

It is also a great platform for practicing fundamentals. Sight picture, trigger control, target transitions, and follow-up shots are easier to work on when recoil and ammo cost are not getting in the way.

For suppressor owners, threaded-barrel models are especially appealing. A suppressed .22 LR pistol is one of the most enjoyable range setups you can build where legal.

Choosing the Right Model

Choose a Target model if you want a classic rimfire pistol for range use.

Choose a 22/45 if you prefer a grip angle closer to a 1911.

Choose a 22/45 Lite if you want a lighter pistol, especially for suppressor use or a more modern range setup.

Choose a Tactical model if you want rails, a threaded barrel, or more accessory-ready features.

Choose a Hunter or Competition model if you want a more refined pistol for precision shooting, field use, or a heavier target-style setup.

No matter which version fits your needs, the Mark IV remains one of the most proven rimfire pistol platforms available today.