

In 1986, the competition grade Mark II Government Target Model was released along with proof targets confirming it's accuracy. Stainless steel MKII pistols were introduced in 1982, and a ten inch bull barrel model was added to the line-up in 1984. The safety of the MKII was designed as well to allow for a visual inspection of the chamber with the sear locked in place. The new MKII Rugers came with ten round magazines, making a dollar box of 50 rounds an even five magazine box. To commemorate the conclusion of the Ruger Standard era, Sturm-Ruger produced 5000 stainless steel Standard pistols engraved with Bill Ruger's signature on the receiver. The MKII introduced an entire new generation to the shooting sports. For many older shooters, the Ruger Standard was the first auto-pistol they ever fired. The Ruger MKII, in all it's variations, is considered by many to be the pinnacle of Bill Ruger's achievements.
Ruger mk1 serial numbers series#
In 1982, Bill Ruger added a bolt hold back mechanism, actuated by the flipped magazine button on the A-100 series pistols, and the Ruger MKII was born. The change was a portent of changes on the horizon. Previous magazines would not fit in the A-100 grip frame, but the newer magazines fit both styles of pistol. The new style grip frame was designated the A-100. New dies were formed allowing the magazine follower button to be on the left, rather than on the right as was the case with the earlier models. In 1971, the dies that the Strum-Ruger corporation used to stamp the grip frames finally wore out. Over time, the Standard became available with a variety of barrel lengths, and adjustable sights. When Sturm died in 1951, the background for the eagle medallion was changed to black. Adorning the left grip panel was a red eagle medallion, derived from traditional European eagle motifs by Ruger’s partner, Alex Sturm. It was the tubular receiver and the stamped and welded grip frame that kept the Ruger Standard's price below that of it's competitors. The Ruger Standard stamped and welded grip frame was unique for it's time. The heel released magazine contained nine rounds. The Ruger Standard and Target had no bolt hold back mechanism, and six groove, 1:14 right hand twist rifling in it's barrel. In 1950, the Ruger Target was quickly introduced with a six and 7/8 inch barrel, an adjustable rear sight, an under cut front sight blade to minimize glare, as well as an improved trigger. Far from being a detriment, the Germanic styling gave the pistol a flair that was quickly assimilated into the American shooting culture.

Some may have been confused over the Ruger name, thinking the pistol was a 22 caliber Luger, but the $37.50 price beat the pants off any other rimfire pistol on the market. The bullet exited a tapered barrel that further enhanced the Luger likeness. The receiver was secured atop a grip frame that was reminiscent of a Luger. It had a tubular receiver with a bolt that fit inside. The Ruger Standard was a totally new concept for a. For simplicity, strength, and handsomeness it has no equal." The pure audaciousness of Bill Ruger's advertisements in retrospect was absolutely on target. "The first overall improvement in automatic pistol design since the Browning patent of 1905. In 1949, small advertisements appeared in sporting magazines announcing a new pistol.
