Ruger Mark III Hunter 5.5 vs 6 7/8

[WinkingTiger]

Does anyone have any experience with the Ruger Mark III Hunter?
I wanted to know if there is a big difference in accuracy with the 5 1/2 inch barrel vs. the 6 7/8 inch barrel.

Thanks

 

[mrgrinch]

You will get a bit of extra velocity from the 6 7/8, but if you scope them then neither will be more accurate than the other. If you use open sights, the longer sight radius of the 6 7/8 will help you shoot more accurately. The extra weight of the longer barrel will also help steady your hold.

 

[greener]

The longer barrel gives you a better sight radius and theoretically should be easier to shoot more accurately. I'd go with which one feels better. Some days I'm better with my KMKIII678H and other days I'm better with my PMKIII512.

 

[SageMonkey]

I only have the 5.5. I can not imagine much difference in inherent accuracy, the thing is almost the definition of a tack-driver and it would be hard to improve on noticably. Longer sight radius might help you, that I could see, though the ergonomics of the 5.5 are excellent. There will be some velocity difference and that might help you with a flatter trajectory if you'll shoot to a range that matters at.

BTW, ammo selection will make more of a difference. Don't plan to put bulk-pack wal-mart stuff through it or you will be frustrated when you see what you can do with even half-way decent ammo (say CCI standard velocity target).

 

[WinkingTiger]

I used to own the 6 7/8 barrel model. I really liked it but since the barrel was so long it was kind of a PITA to carry in a holster.

I picked up the 5.5 model in the store and I immediately wanted one.
It felt to be better balanced.

 

[Markbo]

I have a box full of Ruger's neat little .22. I had to have one of the 5.5" models as soon as they came out. With it scoped I get bored shooting at paper so I soon figured out I could shoot the nail heads holding up the cardboard backer to the posts at 25 yards. 3 shot little clovers on top of roofing nail heads. How much more accurate do you need?

 

[Horsesense]

Any advice on holsters for the hunter 6 /78?

 

[tlen]

Any advice on holsters for the hunter 6 /78?

Uncle Mike's makes a holster if you just use open sights. You're SOL if you mount a scope or Red Dot.