Ruger Mk 3 and Browning Buckmark opinions?

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brekneb

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I'm actually interested in getting both of these pistols. However, I just have no idea what the differences are between the different models.

Was wondering if anyone had an opinion as to which model to get in both the Mk 3 and the Buckmark?

I would intend to use it as a cost effective means of training with a pistol that allows transitional skills to a full size combat pistol due to the fact that the grip is similar to a 1911 and the controls are located in the same positions (safety, slide release, and mag release.)

Prefer the longer sight radius (longer barrel.) Don't mind whether it's stainless or blued.

I am eyeballing the Browning Buck Mark Bullseye Target URX
and as far as the Ruger, I'm looking at the Ruger Hunter Mk 3 stainless 6 7/8" barrel.

I just can't help but think there is not much difference between the various models and that I'd be just as well off going for the $200-$300 versions of both the Ruger and the Browning as opposed to the higher end ($500+ versions.)

But, again, I'm ignorant on these two pistols so I really have no idea whether the cost increase is pointless or not.
 
 
Holy... I'm sorry. No, in this one rare instance I actually did not search....


I figured there'd be posts about "which .22 auto is the best" type of threads but not the precise topic I was interested in. Thanks very much fat dave.
 
I'm sure you'll get a lot of good info from the searhc, so just a brief comment.

The Ruger MK III has several additional features that are IMHO deterimental to performance. A loaded chamber indicator, and a magazine disconnect add complexity are not required in a target pistol, but Ruger decided to install them. Look for a NIB or used MK II and avoid these issues. If you must get a MK III, these items can be removed with out too much trouble.

The Rugers are overbuilt and easily modified by the owner or gunsmith to improve triggers and accuracy if so desired. They are great platforms. Nothing wrong with a Buck Mark either.
 
I forgot to add my own opinion to the above.
Get whichever fits your hand, don't discount the used market for either, get an "Ultimate ClipLoader*) to go with either, and be ready to drop some aftermarket parts into either one to take it from a nice plinker to a competition-grade pistol. Neither will be particularly appropriate for SD or CCW, so let's just get that out there early. Either will be good enough to take squirrel hunting. Either will probably be a bit ammo picky, particularly fresh from the factory.

Personally, I really like the grip on the mkIII, and I have two, a 6 7/8" target model and a 5 1/2" bull barrel. The 6 7/8" was my first gun, in fact ... and is now MrsBFD's favorite .22 pistol. The bull barrel is probably my favorite gun, once I realized how well it balanced in my hand and how much I liked shooting it, I started customizing it. So far, I've:
Removed mag interlock ($10 bushing from a private maker, it looks like VQ is making one now)
Removed LCI ($0, it was hampering ejection)
Upgraded trigger and sear ($22 and $35 from Volquartsen)
Upgraded extractor claw ($12 from VQ)

Of all the above changes I've made, dumping the LCI was the only necessary one, with the extractor claw upgrade being the most helpful of the others. Don't take my list of customizations as a sign the Ruger requires special care out of the box, I just like tinkering and had the disposable income for the goodies from VQ.

*Yes, I know the name is wrong, but the company isn't about to change it now that it has some brand recognition.
 
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