How to Install a Mark 2 Hammer in a Mark 3 Ruger

The Ruger Mark II and Mark III pistols are .22-caliber target pistols used primarily for competition shooting, plinking and varmint hunting. The two weapons are based on the same design, though the Mark III has a magazine safety and a slimmer grip handle. The factory Mark III hammer is heavier than the Mark II hammer, which gives the Ruger Mark III a heavier trigger pull. The Volquartsen (VQ) Mark II hammer can be installed in place of the Mark III hammer for a lighter trigger pull, resulting in better accuracy, quick magazine release and faster shooting time.

Things You'll Need

  • Padded gun vise
  • Ruger Mark II hammer bushing
  • VQ Mark II hammer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unload the weapon completely. Remove the magazine and visually inspect the weapon to ensure that no ammunition is present.

    • 2

      Cock the pistol. Verify that the magazine is empty. Insert the empty magazine. Pull the trigger to send the hammer forward. Remove the magazine.

    • 3

      Open the mainspring latch located on the back of the grip. Pull up on the mainspring housing to the open position.

    • 4

      Pull the mainspring housing down to remove the bolt-stop pin and entire mainspring housing from the weapon. Pull the bolt out from the rear of the receiver to remove it from the weapon.

    • 5

      Pull the receiver forward and off of the weapon frame. Secure the weapon into a padded gun vise. Ensure that the top of the weapon frame is accessible.

    • 6

      Slide the hammer pivot pin 1/2 inch to the left. This action will release the hammer and magazine safety. Pull the hammer and magazine safety disconnector up and out of the weapon frame.

    • 7

      Pull the magazine safety disconnector and hammer off of the disconnector lever. Install the Mark II hammer bushing in place of the magazine safety disconnector onto the disconnector lever.

    • 8

      Place the VQ Mark II hammer onto the disconnector lever, in front of the Mark II hammer bushing. Reassemble the weapon and enjoy your new trigger.