Ruger Mark I Target .22 LR Semi-Automatic Pistol, 5.5 in Bull Barrel, 1980 Production
Produced in 1980, this Ruger Mark I Target pairs the classic open-top receiver with a factory 5.5-inch bull barrel favored by NRA bull-eye competitors. Its polished blued finish, heel-type magazine release, and fully adjustable micrometer rear sight mark it as a late-production example of the original Mark series before design changes arrived in the Mark II. Collectors will appreciate the complete factory package, including the yellow two-piece box and period manual.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – Shows some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, shiny bore with well-defined lands and grooves; minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: Scattered scratches and blemishes are visible on the metal surfaces, and light rust is present on the controls.
What’s Included
- Yellow Ruger factory two-piece box with black-and-red phoenix crest
- Ruger Mark I Target/Standard Model instruction manual
- Four Ruger factory 9-round single-stack magazines
- Leather holster
This Mark I Target is built on Ruger’s alloy-steel frame and receiver, both finished in a high-polish blue that contrasts with the black checkered synthetic grips. The open-top receiver and cylindrical bolt give the pistol its signature sleek profile while simplifying maintenance.
The 5.5-inch bull barrel (T512 configuration) adds forward weight for steadier off-hand shooting. Coupled with the 1:16 RH twist and crisp single-action trigger, it helped make the Mark I a staple on collegiate and NRA bull-eye firing lines throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Sighting is handled by a Patridge-style pinned front blade and a micrometer-type fully adjustable rear sight, allowing precise elevation and windage corrections without tools. The manual thumb safety and heel-type magazine release reflect the original Mark-series control layout, a feature discontinued on later generations.
Serial number prefix 16 indicates 1980 production, placing this example near the end of Mark I manufacture. The pistol retains Ruger’s early barrel safety-warning roll mark and arrives with its period-correct packaging, making it a well-rounded choice for both shooters and collectors.