First Impressions of Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV
The Ruger MK IV is a fantastic pistol, known for its reliability and accuracy, but its factory trigger often leaves something to be desired. That’s where the Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV comes in, promising a significant upgrade in trigger pull and overall performance. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of aftermarket upgrades, and I was eager to see if this kit lived up to the hype.
I was looking for a way to improve the trigger on my Ruger MK IV Tactical without completely replacing the entire lower. The factory trigger was gritty and had a heavy pull, hindering my accuracy during rapid-fire drills. Unboxing the kit, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the components. The gold trigger is visually striking, and the included springs and shims looked well-made. My initial thought was, “This looks like a serious upgrade.”
I considered other options, like the Tandemkross trigger, but ultimately chose the Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV because of its reputation for reliability and the curved trigger design. I have small hands, and a curved trigger generally provides a more comfortable and consistent trigger pull for me. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – I was excited to see if it could transform my MK IV into a true competition-ready pistol.
Real-World Testing: Putting Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV was at my local outdoor shooting range. I wanted to see how it performed in a controlled environment before taking it out into more demanding conditions. The difference was immediately noticeable. The trigger pull was significantly lighter, smoother, and had a much crisper break.
Even in the slightly damp conditions of the early morning, my grip remained consistent. I found myself much more confident in my shot placement. After the initial installation, I was able to achieve tighter groupings at 25 yards.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. The trigger pull has remained consistent, and I haven’t experienced any malfunctions or failures to fire directly related to the kit. I’ve put several thousand rounds through my MK IV since installing the kit, and it continues to perform flawlessly.
There are no signs of wear and tear on the trigger or other components. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; I simply use compressed air and a nylon brush to remove any debris after each range session. Compared to my previous experience with the stock trigger, the Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV is a night-and-day difference. It has significantly improved my accuracy and shooting enjoyment.
Breaking Down the Features of Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV
Specifications
The Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV is designed to enhance the trigger pull and overall reliability of your Ruger MK IV or MK IV 22/45 pistol. It includes the MK IV Accurizing Kit and the Bolt Tune-Up Kit. The stated goal is a crisp, clean 2.25 lb trigger pull and the elimination of stovepipes and failures to fire.
- Accurizing Kit: Includes a gold trigger, sear, and disconnector designed to provide a lighter and more consistent trigger pull. This is the heart of the upgrade, drastically improving the feel of the trigger.
- Bolt Tune-Up Kit: Contains a firing pin, extractor, and other components to enhance the bolt’s reliability and cycling. Ensuring reliable cycling is crucial for consistent performance.
- Manufacturer: Volquartsen Firearms.
- Color: Gold (trigger), Black (other components).
- Gun Make: Ruger.
- Gun Model: Ruger Mark IV 22/45, Ruger Mark IV.
- Country of Origin: USA.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the gun’s accuracy, reliability, and overall user experience. A lighter trigger pull allows for more precise shot placement. The enhanced bolt components ensure consistent cycling and minimize malfunctions.
Performance & Functionality
The Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV performs exceptionally well. Its primary function is to improve the trigger pull and overall reliability of the Ruger MK IV pistol, and it delivers on both fronts. The lighter, crisper trigger pull allows for more accurate and consistent shooting.
The enhanced bolt components ensure reliable cycling and minimize the chances of malfunctions. The kit meets and exceeds expectations, transforming the Ruger MK IV into a much more capable and enjoyable pistol to shoot. One potential area for improvement is clearer installation instructions, as some users have reported difficulty with the installation process.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. Volquartsen Firearms uses high-quality materials in the construction of the kit. The gold trigger adds a touch of style to the pistol.
The kit is generally user-friendly, but some mechanical aptitude is required for installation. There is a slight learning curve for those who have never worked on firearms before.
Durability & Maintenance
The Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV is designed to last. The components are made from durable materials that can withstand regular use. Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the included components. However, it is compatible with a wide range of Ruger MK IV accessories, such as aftermarket grips and sights. This allows users to further customize their pistol to suit their individual preferences. The Volquartsen kit works well with many popular compensators and red dot sights for the Ruger MK IV platform.
Pros and Cons of Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV
Pros
- Significantly improves trigger pull weight and smoothness.
- Enhances reliability and reduces malfunctions.
- Relatively easy to install for experienced gunsmiths.
- High-quality materials and construction.
- Dramatically increases accuracy potential.
Cons
- Installation can be challenging for beginners.
- Gold trigger may not match all aesthetics.
- The Bolt Tune-Up Kit may be redundant if you already have an upgraded bolt.
Who Should Buy Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV?
The Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV is perfect for competitive shooters, serious target shooters, and anyone looking to significantly improve the trigger pull and reliability of their Ruger MK IV or MK IV 22/45 pistol. It’s a great upgrade for those who want a lighter, crisper trigger and more consistent performance.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who are completely new to firearms and lack the mechanical skills or confidence to install the kit themselves. Also, if you’re perfectly happy with the stock trigger or don’t plan on shooting competitively, the upgrade may not be necessary. A must-have accessory for this kit is a good set of gunsmithing tools, including punches, a hammer, and a detailed parts diagram of the Ruger MK IV.
Conclusion on Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV
The Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV is an outstanding upgrade for any Ruger MK IV or MK IV 22/45 pistol. It significantly improves the trigger pull, enhances reliability, and ultimately makes the pistol more accurate and enjoyable to shoot. The price of $189.00 is justified by the quality of the components and the noticeable improvement in performance.
I would highly recommend this kit to anyone looking to take their Ruger MK IV to the next level. If you’re looking for a way to improve your accuracy and shooting enjoyment, the Volquartsen Firearms Pistol Competition Kit Ruger MK IV is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your Ruger MK IV today and experience the difference!