Do you dream of hitting bullseyes with your Ruger Mark IV? A great red dot sight can make that happen, but it needs the right mount. Choosing the perfect mounting system feels tricky. Many parts look similar, but they do not always fit right or hold up under fire. You worry about wobbling sights or mounts that break after a few trips to the range. A bad mount ruins a great shooting day.
This article cuts through the confusion. We will look closely at the best red dot mounts made specifically for the Ruger Mark IV. We will explain what makes a mount strong, easy to install, and perfectly aligned. You will learn how to avoid common mistakes that frustrate new and experienced shooters alike.
Keep reading to find the mount that locks your optic securely onto your pistol. By the end, you will know exactly which mount will give you the accuracy and reliability you paid for. Let’s get your Mark IV ready for peak performance!
Top Red Dot Mount For Ruger Mark Iv Recommendations
- PRECISION FIT ADAPTER PLATE FOR RUGER MARK SERIES – This red dot mounting plate is engineered to attach securely to Ruger Mark pistols using factory top holes, creating a stable optic mounting solution without slide modification or removal of original components.
- UNIVERSAL FOOTPRINT FOR RUGER MARK I II III IV MODELS – Designed specifically for Ruger Mark I, Mark II, Mark III, and Mark IV pistols, this red dot adapter plate supports a universal footprint for compatible micro red dot optics while maintaining proper alignment and balance.
- SECURE MOUNTING WITH INCLUDED HARDWARE AND TOOL – Built with precision machining, this red dot mount includes mounting screws and tool to ensure a tight, reliable fit, helping keep your optic stable through regular use and repeated adjustments.
- EASY INSTALLATION WITH CLEAR HOW-TO USE DESIGN – To install, align the adapter plate with the existing holes on the Ruger Mark receiver, secure it using the included screws, then attach your red dot optic following the optic manufacturer’s mounting instructions.
- LOW PROFILE DESIGN FOR NATURAL SIGHT PICTURE – The slim profile keeps the red dot sight positioned close to the receiver, delivering a clean sight picture and comfortable shooting experience while maintaining the original balance of the Ruger Mark platform.
- Compatible Guns: Mark I, Mark II , Mark II 22/45, Mark III Standard, Mark III Bull Barrel, Mark III Competition, Mark III Hunter, Mark III 22/45 Lite, Mark III 22/45 Target, Mark III 22/45 Threaded Barrel, Mark III 22/45 Bull Barrel, Mark III 22/45 Hunter, Mark IV Standard, Mark IV Target, Mark IV Hunter, Mark IV Competition, Mark IV Tactical, Mark IV Hunter, Mark IV 22/45 Lite, Mark IV 22/45 Tactical
- Compatible Guns: Mark I, Mark II , Mark II 22/45, Mark III Standard, Mark III Bull Barrel, Mark III Competition, Mark III Hunter, Mark III 22/45 Lite, Mark III 22/45 Target, Mark III 22/45 Threaded Barrel, Mark III 22/45 Bull Barrel, Mark III 22/45 Hunter, Mark IV Standard, Mark IV Target, Mark IV Hunter, Mark IV Competition, Mark IV Tactical, Mark IV Hunter, Mark IV 22/45 Lite, Mark IV 22/45 Tactical
- Compatible Red Dot Sights (Mounting Screws INCLUDED): Trijicon RMR, Doctor, Insight MRDS, Leupold Delta Point, Leupold Delta Point Pro, Vortex Razor, Vortex Viper, Vortex Venom, Burris Fast Fire 2 & 3, CMORE RTS & STS, Sig Romeo 3, UTG Reflex Micro Dot, Shield RMS (additional screw purchase required), Holosun 407/507c, Kahles Helia, Springfield Hex Dragonfly, Bushnell RXS 100 and 250, Crimson Trace CTS 1265
- Material: Billet 7075-T6 aluminum.
- Finish: Black Anodize
- This mounting plate is designed to connect red dot sights to Ruger Mark I, II, III, IV, IV-Lite, 22/45 pistol. For Mark I and II, confirm it has drilled/tapped holes. Plate will not work without holes.
- Also fit Doctor, Vortex Venom/Razor/Viper, Burris Fastfire, Meopta, Eotech mrds, , Insight red dots.
- Mounting hardware comes with screws and allen wrench. For Mark I and II, confirm it has drilled/tapped holes. Plate will not work without holes.
- Mounting hardware comes with screws and allen wrench. Aircraft grade Aluminum in Matte black finish. Mounting hardware comes with screws and allen wrench. We are learning that depending on the date of production batches of the ruger mark series, some pre-drilled holes are slightly shorter/shallower. If so, please contact us, we will send you shorter screws. We are in the process of adding shorter screws, but it is not factory included til next production.
- This optic plate is designed to attach to the two existing holes on the top of Ruger Mark Slide. No need to replace the rear sight and allowing user to co-witness the rear sight.
- This mounting plate is designed to connect red dot sights to Ruger Mark I, II, III, IV, IV-Lite, 22/45 pistol. For Mark I and II, confirm it has drilled/tapped holes. Plate will not work without holes.
- Mounting hardware comes with screws and allen wrench. For Mark I and II, confirm it has drilled/tapped holes. Plate will not work without holes.
- Also fit Doctor, Vortex Venom/Razor/Viper, Burris Fastfire, Meopta, Eotech mrds, , Insight red dots.
- Mounting hardware comes with screws and allen wrench. We are learning that depending on the date of production batches of the ruger mark series, some pre-drilled holes are slightly shorter/shallower. If so, please contact us, we will send you shorter screws. We are in the process of adding shorter screws, but it is not factory included til next production.
- This optic plate is designed to attach to the two existing holes on the top of Ruger Mark Slide. No need to replace the rear sight and allowing user to co-witness the rear sight.
- DIRECT MOUNT FOR RUGER MARK SERIES – Designed for Ruger Mark I, II, III, IV, IV-Lite, and 22/45 pistols with pre-drilled holes. Mounts directly via the two top slide screws for a secure fit. Mark I and II models must be tapped. Provides reliable alignment without rear sight removal.
- INCLUDES TWO MOUNTING OPTIONS – Ships with a dedicated plate for Ruger Mark I–IV and a universal Picatinny mount for rifles or compatible pistols. This allows for fast transitions between handgun and long gun platforms, providing flexibility for training, sport shooting, or defense setups.
- 5 MOA DOT WITH ADJUSTABLE ILLUMINATION – Fully adjustable for windage and elevation with locking screws. Features unlimited eye relief and five brightness settings for different lighting conditions. Powered by a CR2032 battery (included) to deliver compact, consistent aiming performance.
- DOCTOR FOOTPRINT COMPATIBILITY – Designed to fit optic cuts and mounting plates that follow the Doctor/Venom/Fastfire pattern. Easily integrates with a wide range of pistols and mounting platforms, providing versatility without needing slide modifications or custom adapters.
- RELIABLE PERFORMANCE UNDER RECOIL – Built with rugged aluminum housing and a shock-resistant internal design, this red dot sight maintains zero through repeated firing. Anti-glare coated optics provide a clear aiming point in bright or dim light, ideal for range work or field use.
- FASTFIRE MOUNT - The Burris FastFire Series Red Dot Sight Mounting System is a comprehensive solution designed to accommodate any generation of FastFire Series red dot sights, offering a secure and reliable mounting platform
- COMPATIBILITY - The FastFire mounts from Burris accommodate any generation of FastFire Series red dot shooting sight, providing versatility and compatibility; It is available in a variety of options to suit your shooting gear
- VERSATILITY - Whether for tactical applications, competitive shooting, or recreational use, the FastFire Series Mounting System offers versatility and flexibility, allowing shooters to customize their gear according to their preferences and shooting style
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION - Crafted with precision and durability in mind, the FastFire Series Mounting System provides shooters with the confidence and assurance that their red dot sight will remain securely attached throughout their shooting activities
- BURRIS - Burris has built a reputation for some of the most solid, reliable rings, mounts, and bases on the market; Our quality rings, mounts, and bases are vital to getting and staying on target, round after round
- RED DOT SIGHT MOUNT - Installing an optic on a semi-auto handgun used to require the slide to be machined to fit the optic - a costly operation that permanently alters the handgun slide; Now there's a better way, thanks to the Pistol Red-Dot Sight Mount
- GUN COMPATIBILITY - The durable pistol red dot sight mount is treated with a nitride FORTRESS-FINISH to resist corrosion and match the finish of popular pistol slides; For the best fit, this particular model is compatible with Ruger Mk II & Mk IV
- OPTIC COMPATIBILITY - Convert your gun for optics without machine-operated involvement; This sight mount plate is Trijicon RMR styled; Be sure to experience the real versatility of mounting on the shooting range with the Pistol Red Dot Sight Mount
- GREAT CONSTRUCTION - The mount is made from CNC-machined billet steel, with lightening cuts to reduce weight; Using billet steel allows the mounting plate to be thinner and lower than other aluminum designs while maintaining or exceeding the same strength
- EASY TO MOUNT - This compact mounting plate by TruGlo installation does not require specific instruments and is easy to install with basic tools; All these bring affordable versatility for shooters of different levels and possibilities
- RED DOT SIGHT MOUNT - Installing an optic on a semi-auto handgun used to require the slide to be machined to fit the optic - a costly operation that permanently alters the handgun slide; Now there's a better way, thanks to the Pistol Red-Dot Sight Mount
- GUN COMPATIBILITY - The durable pistol red dot sight mount is treated with a nitride FORTRESS-FINISH to resist corrosion and match the finish of popular pistol slides; For the best fit, this particular model is compatible with Ruger Mk II & Mk IV
- OPTIC COMPATIBILITY - Convert your gun for optics without machine-operated involvement; This sight mount plate is 4-Post Mount styled; It makes your gun compatible with Truglo TRU-TEC Micro, Vortex Viper, Docter, and Burris Fasterfire optic
- GREAT CONSTRUCTION - The mount is made from CNC-machined billet steel, with lightening cuts to reduce weight; Using billet steel allows the mounting plate to be thinner and lower than other aluminum designs while maintaining or exceeding the same strength
- EASY TO MOUNT - This compact mounting plate by TruGlo installation does not require specific instruments and is easy to install with basic tools; All these bring affordable versatility for shooters of different levels and possibilities
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Red Dot Mount for Your Ruger Mark IV
The Ruger Mark IV is a fantastic pistol. Adding a red dot sight can make it even better. A good mount connects your sight securely to your pistol. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a red dot mount for your Ruger Mark IV, several features matter most.
- Compatibility: Make sure the mount fits your specific Mark IV model. Some mounts fit only the standard model, while others work with the 22/45 Lite.
- Sight Footprint: Red dot sights use different mounting patterns (footprints). Look for a mount that matches your sight—like Trijicon RMR, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, or the popular Shield RMS footprint.
- Height Adjustment: Some mounts offer absolute co-witness (sights line up with iron sights), while others provide a lower 1/3 co-witness or a higher “optic height.” Decide what works best for your shooting style.
- Durability and Lock-Up: The mount must hold zero perfectly. Look for designs that use multiple screws or strong clamping mechanisms to prevent movement under recoil.
Important Materials for Longevity
The material of the mount affects how long it lasts and how well it performs.
Aluminum Alloys
Most high-quality mounts use aircraft-grade aluminum. This material is light but very strong. It resists rust and handles the small recoil of the Mark IV well. Good aluminum finishes, like hard anodizing, increase scratch resistance.
Steel Components
Sometimes, screws or locking mechanisms use steel. Steel offers superior strength for critical connection points. Check that any steel parts are properly treated to prevent corrosion.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the mount directly impacts your shooting accuracy.
What Makes a Mount Great?
- Precision Machining: High-quality mounts are machined precisely. This means the holes line up perfectly, and the mount sits flat against the pistol’s frame.
- Included Hardware: Good manufacturers include high-quality, correct-size screws and often thread-locking compound (like Loctite).
- Low Profile Design: A mount that sits too high can feel awkward. A well-designed mount keeps the optic close to the bore axis for faster target acquisition.
What to Avoid?
Cheap mounts often use softer metals or poor machining. These mounts might flex when you tighten the optic screws. This flexing causes the red dot to lose its zero (point of aim shifts). Avoid plastic mounts entirely for this application.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your Mark IV dictates the best mount choice.
Target Shooting and Plinking
For casual range days, almost any solid aluminum mount works fine. You prioritize ease of installation and a secure fit. A simple, low-profile mount is often perfect here.
Competition Shooting
If you shoot competitive rimfire matches, speed matters. You need a mount that allows very fast sight acquisition. Many competitors prefer mounts that position the optic slightly higher for a clear sight picture, even if it means losing iron sight co-witness.
Remember, installation is part of the experience. Choose a mount that uses standard tools you already own. A poorly installed mount is useless, no matter how well it is made.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Ruger Mark IV Red Dot Mounts
Q: Do all Ruger Mark IV models use the same mounting pattern?
A: No. The standard Mark IV frame uses a different pattern than the Mark IV 22/45 Lite, which often has pre-drilled holes for mounting.
Q: Do I need to remove the rear sight to install a mount?
A: Yes, most direct-mount adapters replace the factory rear sight entirely. You must remove the sight first.
Q: Will a bad mount cause my red dot to stop working?
A: A bad mount can cause serious issues. It might let the optic shift, making your shots inaccurate. Some very poor mounts can even damage the sight’s internal electronics.
Q: What is “footprint” when talking about mounts?
A: Footprint describes the screw hole pattern on the bottom of your red dot sight. You must match the mount’s footprint to your sight’s footprint.
Q: Is Loctite necessary when installing the mount?
A: Most manufacturers strongly recommend using a small amount of blue (medium strength) Loctite on the screws that attach the mount to the pistol frame.
Q: Can I use a mount that is too high?
A: You can, but it changes how you aim. A very high mount forces you to lift your head more to see the dot, which slows down fast shooting.
Q: Should I buy a mount made of steel or aluminum?
A: Aluminum is usually better for the Mark IV because it is lighter and strong enough for the .22 LR caliber. Steel adds unnecessary weight.
Q: How tight should I screw in the optic onto the mount?
A: You must follow the red dot manufacturer’s torque specs, usually around 10-15 inch-pounds. Overtightening can damage the sight housing.
Q: Are there mounts that allow co-witnessing with iron sights?
A: Yes. Some specialized mounts are designed to sit low enough so that the iron sights are visible through the bottom of the red dot window.
Q: How often should I check the mount screws?
A: After the first 50-100 rounds, check all screws for tightness. After that, checking them every few range trips is good practice.