Mark 4: alum or SS frame?

[humdinger]

I'm considering getting a new mark 4 target gun and debating between the blued aluminum frame versus the heavier SS frame.

Any concerns about aluminum frame durability?
Finish durability?
Surviving an occasional drop?

Its tempting to shoot a slightly lighter gun and about $80 less. I have SS guns, but I don't carry them out much so a blued gun isnt as negative now. I tend to neglect my SS guns though....

 

[Highstandardguy]

I don't think the MKIVs have been in service long enough to really answer your first two questions. Maybe someone else will know more.

As for your last question, I think it pretty much depends on how and where it lands.

 

[Mobuck]

Is the grip frame really SS?

 

[Captain America]

I don't carry my Mark IV, just a fun target pistol, so I went with the blue to save some money and weight. I only have a couple of thousand rounds through mine but the gun looks like brand new yet and I don't doubt that it will look that way for a very long time. Here's mine with Altamont grips and a HiViz front sight...

 

[22/45 Fan]

Is the grip frame really SS?

Yes, it really is. That's why the stainless guns are significantly heavier than the "blued" ones.

 

[SGW Gunsmith]

The Ruger Mark IV's, in all their current configurations, have been in service for over a year now. Stainless grip frames are easily repaired by an owner if scratches, or rub marks become present using a Scotchbrite pad. The Zytel grip frames will not show rub, or slight scratches as readily as an anodized aluminum grip frame, or gun part will. Aluminum grip frames that have been anodized for coloration will obviously allow the aluminum base color to show through the hard anodize coloration when rubbing or scratches get under the coloration.

None of the above mentioned wear will affect the pistols function or performance, only cosmetic appeal. These days we have several methods whereby an owner can apply to a worn finish, anodized grip frame, or any other aluminum gun part, with the DuraCoat or Cera-Coat process.

BTW: Ruger has been using actual "stainless steel" for grip frames and barreled receivers shortly after 1982, when the first Ruger Mark II pistols were introduced.

 

[RUFFBIRD]

I believe some of the Mk-IV target blued pistols have a steel frame. Weight is 42 oz with 5.5" bull barrel.
In my neck of the woods they are $150. less money too compared to stainless...
Basically, it depends on which is more important to you, weight, finish, & color. Any which
way you choose will be fun.

Edited to state:
Some of the older Mk-III blued guns were steel grip frame! The Ruger website info indicates
Mk-IV blued grip frames to be of aluminum. 36 oz.

 

[CraigC]

I agree with SGW, if it's coated or anodized, worn aluminum looks like crap. It doesn't add character like it does to blued steel. Polymer always looks the same. This is why I think the switch to polymer trigger housings was an upgrade for the 10/22. It's also why I'm sticking to my MKIII 22/45's.

EDIT: I thought they switched them all to aluminum but just realized the grip frames on the 22/45 are still polymer. Which to me is a good thing. Might have to look at those tactical models again.