First Impressions of Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV
The Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV promises a precision upgrade to the often-underwhelming factory sights on Ruger’s popular rimfire pistols. As someone who’s spent countless hours at the range and in the field with various firearms, I’m always looking for ways to enhance accuracy and overall shooting experience. The allure of this sight lies in its promise of repeatable, precise adjustments and robust steel construction, addressing a common pain point for many Ruger owners.
My journey to finding this sight stemmed from a frustrating inability to consistently zero my Mark IV. The factory sights, while functional, lacked the positive clicks and overall feel of a truly quality adjustable sight. I was tired of chasing my shots and wanted a more reliable and precise sighting system for my rimfire training.
Upon unboxing, the Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV immediately impressed me with its solid feel and clean machining. The steel construction felt significantly more robust than the factory sight it was replacing. It exuded a sense of quality and attention to detail that instilled confidence.
Compared to other aftermarket sights I’ve considered, like those from Williams Gun Sight or HiViz, the Volquartsen stood out due to its precise adjustability and all-steel construction. While fiber optic sights offer enhanced visibility in certain conditions, I prioritized precision and durability for this particular application. The Volquartsen sight seemed to offer the best balance of these qualities. My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to install it and see if it lived up to its promise of enhanced accuracy and adjustability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV was at my local outdoor range, under fairly typical sunny conditions. I primarily focused on accuracy testing at 25 yards, using a variety of .22 LR ammunition. The immediate difference was striking: the positive clicks of the windage and elevation adjustments made zeroing a breeze.
It took only a few shots to get the sight dialed in perfectly. Unlike the mushy feel of the factory sights, the Volquartsen’s adjustments were crisp and predictable. There were no issues whatsoever with the sight staying put during shooting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV has proven to be an incredibly reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve put several hundred rounds through my Mark IV with this sight installed. There have been no signs of loosening or shifting.
The sight shows no signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to varying weather conditions. Cleaning is simple, usually just a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth. It significantly outperforms the factory sights in terms of both precision and durability. I no longer have to worry about the sight losing zero or feeling flimsy.
Breaking Down the Features of Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV
Specifications
The Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. It is precision-machined from steel, ensuring durability and longevity. The sight features accurate, repeatable click adjustments for windage and elevation, allowing for precise zeroing.
This sight is designed as a direct replacement for the factory adjustable rear sight on Ruger MKII, MKIII, and MK IV pistols with 0.875″ bull barrels. It utilizes the factory dovetail for easy installation and secures in place with two set screws. The rear sight notch width is .110″. These specifications are crucial for a reliable and accurate sight, as they ensure a precise fit, robust construction, and user-friendly adjustability.
Performance & Functionality
The Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV excels in its primary function: enhancing accuracy and providing a reliable sighting system. The positive clicks and wide adjustment range make zeroing incredibly easy and precise. Once zeroed, the sight holds its setting consistently, even after extended shooting sessions.
Its strengths lie in its robust construction, precise adjustability, and ease of installation. A potential area for slight improvement might be offering a wider variety of notch widths to suit different shooting preferences. Overall, the Volquartsen sight significantly exceeds expectations, transforming the Ruger Mark series pistols into more accurate and enjoyable firearms to shoot.
Design & Ergonomics
The Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV features a simple, yet effective design. Its all-steel construction gives it a solid, weighty feel, inspiring confidence in its durability. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of time.
The sight is very user-friendly, with clear and positive clicks for windage and elevation adjustments. There is no noticeable learning curve; anyone familiar with adjustable sights will find it intuitive to use. The sight’s low profile does not interfere with the pistol’s handling or balance.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its all-steel construction, the Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, typically involving only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.
The sight’s durable finish resists corrosion and scratches, further extending its lifespan. It’s a robust and well-made product that can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV is primarily a standalone upgrade, but it pairs perfectly with aftermarket front sights, particularly fiber optic options, for enhanced visibility. The sight’s dovetail design is compatible with most standard Ruger Mark series front sights.
While the sight itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its adjustable nature allows users to fine-tune their zero for different ammunition types and shooting distances. It can be used in conjunction with other aftermarket accessories, such as grips and triggers, to further enhance the overall shooting experience. The Volquartsen sight plays well with others in the Ruger Mark series ecosystem of upgrades.
Pros and Cons of Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV
Pros
- Precise and repeatable click adjustments for windage and elevation make zeroing incredibly easy.
- Durable all-steel construction ensures long-lasting reliability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy installation requires no gunsmithing and can be completed in minutes.
- Significant improvement in accuracy compared to the factory Ruger sights.
- Enhanced shooting experience due to the solid feel and precise adjustability.
Cons
- The .110″ notch width might be too narrow for some shooters, limiting sight picture preferences.
- The price point ($81.90) is higher than some other aftermarket sight options.
Who Should Buy Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV?
The Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV is perfect for Ruger Mark II, III, and IV owners who are looking to significantly improve the accuracy and adjustability of their pistols. It is ideal for target shooters, plinkers, and small game hunters who demand precise sighting and consistent performance. This is also a great upgrade for those who find the factory Ruger sights to be lacking in quality or adjustability.
Those who are primarily interested in rapid target acquisition and prefer fiber optic sights may want to consider other options. It’s also not necessary for casual shooters who are content with the basic functionality of the factory sights. A must-have accessory is a quality front sight, particularly a fiber optic model, to create a complete and highly visible sighting system.
Conclusion on Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV
The Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone seeking to enhance the accuracy and overall shooting experience with their Ruger Mark series pistol. Its precise adjustability, durable construction, and easy installation make it a standout product in the aftermarket sight category. The price is justified by the significant improvement in performance and the long-lasting quality of the sight.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Volquartsen sight to anyone who is serious about improving their shooting with a Ruger Mark II, III, or IV. It’s an investment that will pay off in tighter groups, more consistent performance, and greater enjoyment at the range. Don’t settle for subpar sights; upgrade to the Volquartsen Firearms TL Rear Sight for Mark II, III, IV and experience the difference.