Ruger MK1 Review & Shoot Mark 1

Published on May 26, 2026
Duration: 16:55

This review of the Ruger MK1, specifically a 5-inch bull barrel variant, highlights its historical significance as the first in the MK series. The firearm demonstrates impressive accuracy, with the reviewer achieving consistent hits at 150 yards and even attempting 200-yard shots with standard velocity .22LR ammunition. Key features discussed include its 10-round capacity, unique charging mechanism without a traditional slide, adjustable target sights, and an exceptionally light trigger pull averaging under 2 pounds. The review also touches on the ease of loading the single-stack magazines thanks to a helpful lever.

Quick Summary

The Ruger MK1, the first in Ruger's MK series, is a .22LR pistol known for its impressive accuracy, especially with its 5-inch bull barrel. It features a unique manual charging system, adjustable target sights, and an exceptionally light trigger pull under 2 pounds, making it capable of hitting targets at 150 and even 200 yards with standard velocity ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & MK1 Overview
  2. 00:05Ruger MK1 History & Variations
  3. 00:16Early 80s Release & Accuracy Potential
  4. 00:21Steel Target Shooting with .22LR
  5. 00:27Long Range "Tack Driver" Performance
  6. 00:32100, 150, and 200 Yard Hits
  7. 00:49Rifle-like Long Range Accuracy
  8. 00:57MK1 Condition & Reliability
  9. 01:05Magazine Capacity & Charging Mechanism
  10. 01:13Adjustable Target Sights
  11. 01:28Trigger Weight Measurement
  12. 01:3310+1 Capacity & Original Mag
  13. 01:44Shooting Range Setup & Distances
  14. 01:5316.9 Yard Point of Aim Test
  15. 02:01Gear Used (Eyes, Ears, etc.)
  16. 03:01Steel Target Knockdown Attempts
  17. 03:46Easy Magazine Loading
  18. 04:06Trigger Weight Reveal (1 lb 13 oz)
  19. 04:25Safety & Magazine Release
  20. 04:35Magazine Loading Technique
  21. 04:55Rifle Range - 150 Yard Gong Attempt
  22. 05:15Ammunition Choice: CCI Standard Velocity
  23. 05:49Wind Conditions & Holdover
  24. 06:15150 Yard Gong Shooting (Zoomed In)
  25. 07:09150 Yard Gong Shooting (Zoomed Out)
  26. 07:41Adjusting for Misses (Right/Low)
  27. 08:04Getting Closer to Hits
  28. 08:18Wind Adjustment & Zoomed Out Shots
  29. 08:34200 Yard Shooting Attempt
  30. 08:51Elevation Adjustment (22 Clicks)
  31. 09:04Aiming Left for Windage
  32. 09:18200 Yard Hits & Misses
  33. 09:38Iron Sights vs. Red Dot Discussion
  34. 09:55200 Yard Hit Ratio (50%)
  35. 10:04Previous Record (150 Yards with Red Dot)
  36. 10:14Pistol's Accuracy Potential
  37. 10:21Red Dot Advantage Explained
  38. 10:47Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Ruger MK1 unique compared to other pistols?

The Ruger MK1 is unique due to its original design in the MK series, featuring a manual charging system without a traditional slide, a very light trigger pull under 2 pounds, and impressive accuracy for a .22LR pistol, even at extended ranges.

How accurate is the Ruger MK1 pistol at long distances?

The Ruger MK1, particularly with the 5-inch bull barrel, demonstrates remarkable accuracy. The reviewer achieved consistent hits at 150 yards and even managed a 50% hit ratio at 200 yards with iron sights and standard velocity .22LR ammunition.

What is the trigger pull weight of the Ruger MK1?

The trigger pull weight on the reviewed Ruger MK1 is exceptionally light, measuring under 2 pounds. The specific measurement taken was 1 pound and 13 ounces.

Is the Ruger MK1 easy to load?

Yes, the Ruger MK1 features single-stack magazines that are very easy to load. They include a lever mechanism that pulls down the spring, allowing for effortless insertion of rounds.

What ammunition was used for the long-range testing of the Ruger MK1?

For the long-range testing, particularly at 150 and 200 yards, CCI Standard Velocity .22LR ammunition was used to ensure consistency and accuracy, despite the potential for more drop compared to bulk pack rounds.

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