Ruger Mark IV Tactical: The Ultimate .22LR Pistol Or A Jamming Nightmare?

Published on May 22, 2018
Duration: 11:38

This guide addresses common light strike issues encountered with the Ruger Mark IV when using aftermarket triggers, specifically those with lighter hammer springs. It details a troubleshooting process that involves thorough cleaning and the strategic upgrade to a titanium firing pin. The expert demonstrates how this specific modification resolved persistent reliability problems, highlighting the importance of component compatibility in firearm tuning.

Quick Summary

Light strikes on a Ruger Mark IV with an aftermarket trigger like Volquartsen's can be resolved by upgrading to a Volquartsen SureStrike Titanium Firing Pin. This ensures sufficient firing pin energy for reliable primer ignition, especially when using a lighter hammer spring.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Initial Shooting Experience & Malfunctions
  2. 00:19Pistol Introduction & Volquartsen Trigger
  3. 00:41Ammunition & Prior Experience
  4. 00:57Troubleshooting Light Strike Hypotheses
  5. 01:11Prep for Current Test: Cleaning
  6. 01:28Second Shooting Session: Improved Reliability
  7. 01:58Future Upgrade Plans & Break-in
  8. 02:08Third Shooting Session
  9. 02:13Continued Reliability Improvement
  10. 02:27Fourth Shooting Session
  11. 02:50Fifth Shooting Session
  12. 03:07Sixth Shooting Session: Malfunction Increase
  13. 03:23Light Strike Trends & Next Steps
  14. 03:50Post-Range Plan
  15. 03:59Channel & Pistol Introduction
  16. 04:11Channel Thank You & Future Content
  17. 04:45Personal History with Ruger Mark Series
  18. 05:08Mark IV Features & Current Mods
  19. 05:44Close-up Features of Mark IV Target
  20. 06:18Volquartsen Trigger & Testing
  21. 06:46Magazine Disconnect & Dry Fire
  22. 07:26Teaser for Future Mods
  23. 07:33Firing Pin Solution Revealed
  24. 07:48Suppressed Shooting Footage
  25. 08:09No Volquartsen Bolt Needed
  26. 08:16Magazine Details & Future Discussion
  27. 08:35Light Strike Cause & Resolution Explained
  28. 09:44Post-Fix Performance & Grip Angle
  29. 10:08Recoil & Flinching Discussion
  30. 10:39Ammo Cost & Trigger Fine-tuning
  31. 10:52Upcoming Mods & Social Media
  32. 11:18Conclusion & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes light strikes on a Ruger Mark IV with an aftermarket trigger?

Light strikes on a Ruger Mark IV after installing an aftermarket trigger, especially one with a lighter hammer spring like Volquartsen's, often occur because the original firing pin may not have enough mass or energy to reliably ignite primers. This is exacerbated by the reduced spring tension.

How can I fix light strikes on my Ruger Mark IV after installing a Volquartsen trigger?

A common solution for light strikes on a Ruger Mark IV with a Volquartsen trigger is to upgrade to a Volquartsen SureStrike Titanium Firing Pin. This component provides the necessary mass and energy for reliable primer ignition, even with a lighter hammer spring.

Is it safe to dry fire a Ruger Mark IV?

According to Ruger, dry-firing their .22LR firearms, including the Mark IV series, is generally considered acceptable. However, it's always good practice to confirm with the manufacturer's specific guidelines for your model.

What is the trigger pull weight of the Volquartsen trigger for the Ruger Mark IV?

The Volquartsen trigger upgrade for the Ruger Mark IV is noted to achieve a very light trigger pull weight, approximately 1.5 to 2 pounds. This significantly enhances the shooting experience by reducing the force needed to fire the pistol.

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