[MDHunter]

I can't get the magazine to disengage on my Ruger MkIII Target .22 long rifle...the gun's empty and I want to disassemble for cleaning, but the magazine seems to be stuck - won't release when I hit the mag release button. Anyone else had this problem, or does anyone have suggestions on what the issue might be?

Thanks,

Michael

[rcmodel]

Nothing specific but:

Does the mag catch push through the grip like it is supposed too?

You might check the catch retainer screw on the right side of the grip and see if it is backing out. I'm not sure what effect that might have, if any, but it's something to check.

Can you completely remove the mag catch screw & spring and get the catch to completely release?

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j219/rcmodel/KTOG/1224.gif
rcmodel

[51Cards]

Be ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN that there is NO cartridge in there!

I mean, you can pull the bolt back and see the follower, right?

[MDHunter]

I should have mentioned earlier that it's a new gun, I'm cleaning prior to using...

Have resolved the mag issue, now trying to get the mainspring housing assembly to go back in....gotta love all of the extra safety mechanisms....

Michael

[rcmodel]

Well, what exactly was causing the magazine problem?

Inquiring minds want to know! (for future referance) :D

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j219/rcmodel/KTOG/1224.gif
rcmodel

[Kruzr]

Just remember to follow ALL the directions in the manual, especially which way to point the muzzle when doing closing the MSH. You may also have to use a small screwdriver to push the hammer forward before putting in the bolt stop/MSH. The hammer strut must be above the crosspin in the frame to close the MSH properly.

The MK III adds steps since you have to insert the magazine to manipulate the trigger which allows you to move the hammer forward.

[Norton]

Make sure that your grip screws aren't impinging on the magazine. If I tighten mine just a hair too much, the screw touches the magazine through the frame.

[MDHunter]

Thanks for the good info and the responses - it seems like the issue has been resolved. I took the grips off and worked with the screw next to the mag release button, played with it a little bit, and got the issue resolved and not repeating itself. Hopefully just one of those "new gun, needs tweaking" type of deals.

I will say that all of the internal safety mechanisms make this a pain in the arse to assemble, had a fun time getting the receiver and grip aligned so that the bolt lock would feed smoothly! But all's well now, and thanks again for the help guys.

Michael