Ruger Mark I Gun

History about Ruger Mark I Gun and some Facts. Ruger Mark I Gun is different from that of other semi automatic pistols. Many companies today have ventured into the firearm manufacturing activity especially for recreation and sport shooting such as game hunting. One of the prominent companies in this industry is the Sturm, Ruger & Co. also known as Ruger. In 1949, Alexander Sturm together with Bill Ruger, the partners of the company introduced the first of its kind 0.22 pistol that was semi-automatic. It was named Mark I and ever since, the descendants of Mark I have been some of the top pistols in the industry today.

Mechanical Design
The designing of Ruger Mark I Gun is different from that of other semi automatic pistols in the market today. The design incorporates a cylindrical bolt that moves inside an upper receiver that is cylindrical in shape. The design of the Ruger Mark I borrows heavily from the Japanese Nambu Type 14 pistol which was used during the world war II. Bill Ruger became much interested in the Japanese Nambu after he received one as a token of appreciation from a returning GI.

The external outline of the pistol resembles that of the Luger P-08 and Nambu especially on the tapered barrel, trigger guard and grip frame. Every part and component of the pistol is made of steel with the exception of the grips which are made of plastic. When it was first introduced, the Ruger Mark I had a 4.45 barrel, a nine-round magazine and fixed sights.

The machining cost of the lower receiver was drastically reduced by the welded steel stampings making the Ruger Mark I Gun sell for a price less than that of its close competitors from High Standards and Colt. From 1949, the design of the Ruger Mark I has gone through various changes (3 to be precise) to its current Mark III version.

The Ruger Mark I Target Model
Because of a growing number of customer requests, the Ruger Mark I Target Model was introduces into the market in 1950. It is a variant of the original Ruger Mark I model with a 6.9 inch heavy barrel, a front sight blade that is thick and large, a rear sight that is adjustable for elevation and windage and a wide-bladed adjustable trigger.

The second Mark I Target variant was introduced in 1963 and had a 5.5 inch bull barrel. This variant retained all the original features except the adjustable-pull feature. The seasoned users describe it as a reliable, rugged and well balanced pistol. This variant became a preferred pistol for both sport and recreation activities.

The Safety - Bolt Release Button
All Ruger Mk I variants have a safety –bolt release button that is located on the left side of the frame. For right hand shooters, this button can be easily manipulated through the shooting hand. The button is used to lock the bolt open as well as release it while engaging the safety. In other variants, the button functions as a cocking indicator.

The Shooting Experience
Shooting with the Ruger Mk I is a great experience. It combines a steadiness which is imparted by its weight, the scant recoil and the generous sights to provide real fun during shooting.