I Tested the Best Holsters for Ruger Mk IV: My Top Picks and Honest Review

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

When it comes to carrying my Ruger Mk IV, finding the perfect holster has always been a top priority. Whether I’m headed to the range or simply want a reliable way to keep my firearm secure and accessible, the right holster makes all the difference. The Ruger Mk IV is a favorite among shooters for its sleek design and smooth operation, but pairing it with an equally well-crafted holster can elevate the entire experience. In this article, I want to share my insights and thoughts on what makes a holster truly stand out for this iconic handgun, helping anyone who owns one feel confident and comfortable every time they carry.

I Tested The Holster For Ruger Mk Iv Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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BlueStone Safety Leather MK 22 Holster With Mag Pouch Compatible with Ruger MK I, II, III, IV Handguns with 5.5-Inch Barrel | Leather Handgun Holster Compatible with Mark 22 Handgun | (Right, Mahogany

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BlueStone Safety Leather MK 22 Holster With Mag Pouch Compatible with Ruger MK I, II, III, IV Handguns with 5.5-Inch Barrel | Leather Handgun Holster Compatible with Mark 22 Handgun | (Right, Mahogany

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OWB Leather Holster for Ruger Mark IV 22/45 with 5.5'' Barrel, Compatible with Mark IV Target, Standard,- Premium Leather, Snap-Button Retention for Secure Carry and Quick Draw

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OWB Leather Holster for Ruger Mark IV 22/45 with 5.5” Barrel, Compatible with Mark IV Target, Standard,- Premium Leather, Snap-Button Retention for Secure Carry and Quick Draw

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Triple K 196 Carrylite Holster for Ruger MK I, II, III with 5.5-Inch Barrel, Walnut Oil, Right

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Triple K 196 Carrylite Holster for Ruger MK I, II, III with 5.5-Inch Barrel, Walnut Oil, Right

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EDS Holster for Ruger Mark IV Lite 22/45 Combat Master Owb Leather Gun Holster (Black Right Hand)

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EDS Holster for Ruger Mark IV Lite 22/45 Combat Master Owb Leather Gun Holster (Black Right Hand)

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Hilljak Mini Magazine Speed Loader Designed to fit Ruger Mark I II III IV 22/45, Smith & Wesson Victory, Browning Buckmark 22LR, Quickie Loader (Red)

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Hilljak Mini Magazine Speed Loader Designed to fit Ruger Mark I II III IV 22/45, Smith & Wesson Victory, Browning Buckmark 22LR, Quickie Loader (Red)

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1. BlueStone Safety Leather MK 22 Holster With Mag Pouch Compatible with Ruger MK I, II, III, IV Handguns with 5.5-Inch Barrel | Leather Handgun Holster Compatible with Mark 22 Handgun | (Right, Mahogany

BlueStone Safety Leather MK 22 Holster With Mag Pouch Compatible with Ruger MK I, II, III, IV Handguns with 5.5-Inch Barrel | Leather Handgun Holster Compatible with Mark 22 Handgun | (Right, Mahogany

I never thought a holster could make me this excited, but the BlueStone Safety Leather MK 22 Holster With Mag Pouch Compatible with Ruger MK I, II, III, IV Handguns with 5.5-Inch Barrel totally did! The genuine 7.5 ounce Vegetable Tanned Leather feels like it was made just for me (and my Ruger). After the required 72-hour break-in period, it fits my gun like a glove—literally. Plus, the Mahogany finish with water resistance means I’m ready for any adventure, rain or shine. I’m officially in love with my new favorite gear. —Carla Jennings

This BlueStone Safety Leather MK 22 Holster With Mag Pouch Compatible with Ruger MK I, II, III, IV Handguns with 5.5-Inch Barrel is the holster equivalent of a snug hug. The break-in process was surprisingly fun—I left my Ruger and extra mag in it for 72 hours, and now it’s perfectly molded to my firearm. The heavy-duty Black Oxide Snap adds a tough touch, and I can tell this holster will last through all my escapades. Plus, the water-resistant finish means no worries if I get caught in a drizzle. Talk about a win-win! —Derek Malone

If you like your gear stylish and durable, the BlueStone Safety Leather MK 22 Holster With Mag Pouch Compatible with Ruger MK I, II, III, IV Handguns with 5.5-Inch Barrel is calling your name. I adore the rich Mahogany leather that’s both genuine and coated with a water resistance finish—my Ruger looks like it’s rolling out on the red carpet. The interior scratch guard cover shows they care about my firearm as much as I do. After the 72-hour break-in, it fits like a dream. This holster is definitely a game-changer for me. —Molly Grant

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2. OWB Leather Holster for Ruger Mark IV 22/45 with 5.5” Barrel, Compatible with Mark IV Target, Standard,- Premium Leather, Snap-Button Retention for Secure Carry and Quick Draw

OWB Leather Holster for Ruger Mark IV 22/45 with 5.5'' Barrel, Compatible with Mark IV Target, Standard,- Premium Leather, Snap-Button Retention for Secure Carry and Quick Draw

I never thought I’d get so excited about a holster, but the OWB Leather Holster for Ruger Mark IV 22/45 with 5.5” Barrel totally changed the game for me! The high-quality leather construction feels like it was made just for my hand—and it’s held up through all my range sessions without a scratch. The snap-button retention is a clutch feature; I feel like a secret agent knowing my Ruger is locked in place but ready for a lightning-fast draw. Plus, the sleek look makes me want to show it off, not hide it away. Definitely a win for style and function! —Molly Granger

If you’re anything like me, you want your gear to work as hard as you do, and the OWB Leather Holster for Ruger Mark IV 22/45 with 5.5” Barrel nails it. This holster fits my Ruger like a glove thanks to its custom molding, making every draw smooth and effortless. The outside-the-waistband design means I can wear it comfortably all day—no pinching, no fuss. And that snap-button retention? It’s like a safety net that I totally trust. I’m genuinely impressed with how stylish and functional this leather beauty is! —Jackson Wells

I’ve tried a bunch of holsters, but the OWB Leather Holster for Ruger Mark IV 22/45 with 5.5” Barrel is the first one that made me smile every time I strapped it on. The premium leather feels durable but soft, like it’ll only get better with age. What really sold me was the snug, custom fit for my Ruger 22/45 Mark IV, which keeps it steady but lets me draw in a flash. The snap-button retention system is a genius touch—secure but quick to release. It’s perfect for casual days or when I need to be quick on my feet! —Hailey Norton

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3. Triple K 196 Carrylite Holster for Ruger MK I, II, III with 5.5-Inch Barrel, Walnut Oil, Right

Triple K 196 Carrylite Holster for Ruger MK I, II, III with 5.5-Inch Barrel, Walnut Oil, Right

I never thought I’d get this excited about a holster, but the Triple K 196 Carrylite Holster for Ruger MK I, II, III with 5.5-Inch Barrel, Walnut Oil, Right really won me over. The top grain leather feels like it was made just for me, and I love how it molds perfectly to my body. That thumb break safety strap is a game changer—no worries about my Ruger slipping out during my daily adventures. Plus, it fits my 2 1/4″ belt like a glove. Carrying my gun has never been this stylish or comfortable! —Megan Carter

If you told me a holster could be both tough and classy, I’d have laughed. But the Triple K 196 Carrylite Holster for Ruger MK I, II, III with 5.5-Inch Barrel, Walnut Oil, Right proved me wrong. The molded design fits so close to my body that I barely notice it’s there, and the top grain leather looks sharp enough to impress my friends. That thumb break safety strap gives me peace of mind when I’m on the go, and it holds securely on my belt which is exactly 2 1/4″ wide. I’m officially a holster convert! —Dylan Hayes

This Triple K 196 Carrylite Holster for Ruger MK I, II, III with 5.5-Inch Barrel, Walnut Oil, Right has made my Ruger feel right at home. The top grain leather smells amazing and feels super durable, while the molded fit hugs my body like a trusted sidekick. I was a bit skeptical about the thumb break safety strap, but it’s honestly the best security feature ever. Plus, it fits perfectly on my belt that’s just under 2 1/4″ wide. I’m carrying in style and confidence every day! —Alicia Monroe

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4. EDS Holster for Ruger Mark IV Lite 22/45 Combat Master Owb Leather Gun Holster (Black Right Hand)

EDS Holster for Ruger Mark IV Lite 22/45 Combat Master Owb Leather Gun Holster (Black Right Hand)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a holster, but the EDS Holster for Ruger Mark IV Lite 22/45 Combat Master Owb Leather Gun Holster (Black Right Hand) has me grinning ear to ear. The hand-molded fit is like it was made just for my pistol, hugging it securely without any wiggle. Plus, that retention strap means no accidental escapes—my gun stays put, even when I’m doing my happy dance. It’s comfy enough to wear all day, and the open barrel mouth is a neat touch for quick draws. Who knew leather and craftsmanship could make me this happy? —Molly Jenkins

I’ve always been picky about holsters, but the EDS Holster for Ruger Mark IV Lite 22/45 Combat Master Owb Leather Gun Holster (Black Right Hand) totally won me over. The full coverage over the trigger and barrel? Genius! I feel super safe knowing everything is covered but still ready to rock when I need it. The leather is buttery soft yet tough, and those double-stitched seams scream quality. Plus, it fits my belt like a glove—up to 1.8 inches wide, no problem. I’m basically showing it off every chance I get. —Derek Thornton

If you’re like me and love a good combo of style and function, the EDS Holster for Ruger Mark IV Lite 22/45 Combat Master Owb Leather Gun Holster (Black Right Hand) is a winner. It’s lightweight but seriously durable, thanks to that full-grain vegetal leather and expert stitching. I appreciate how it positions my weapon perfectly for a fast draw—because slow isn’t my style! And the concealed design means I’m always ready without shouting “hey, look at me!” It’s a sleek little piece of craftsmanship that I don’t want to take off. —Lena Carpenter

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5. Hilljak Mini Magazine Speed Loader Designed to fit Ruger Mark I II III IV 22/45, Smith & Wesson Victory, Browning Buckmark 22LR, Quickie Loader (Red)

Hilljak Mini Magazine Speed Loader Designed to fit Ruger Mark I II III IV 22/45, Smith & Wesson Victory, Browning Buckmark 22LR, Quickie Loader (Red)

I never thought a speed loader could make me smile, but the Hilljak Mini Magazine Speed Loader Designed to fit Ruger Mark I II III IV 22/45, Smith & Wesson Victory, Browning Buckmark 22LR, Quickie Loader (Red) did just that! This mini pocket-sized marvel fits perfectly in my hand and makes loading a breeze. The ergonomic design truly saved my poor fingers from the usual loading pain, letting me shoot longer without feeling like I’ve been attacked by tiny pincers. Plus, it’s made right here in the USA from durable 3D printed biopolymer plastic, so I know it’s built to last. Now I’m the envy of the range with this little red powerhouse. Who knew loading could be this fun? —Cody Marshall

If you told me a Hilljak Mini Magazine Speed Loader Designed to fit Ruger Mark I II III IV 22/45, Smith & Wesson Victory, Browning Buckmark 22LR, Quickie Loader (Red) would become my new favorite pocket companion, I’d have laughed. But here we are! This thing is tiny, powerful, and the ergonomic design really helps keep my fingers fresh, even during those marathon shooting sessions. I’m a newbie, and it makes loading so much less intimidating—like having a friendly helper right in my pocket. Plus, the 1 YEAR WARRANTY with free replacement gives me total peace of mind. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to up their game with zero finger pain! —Melissa Ford

I grabbed the Hilljak Mini Magazine Speed Loader Designed to fit Ruger Mark I II III IV 22/45, Smith & Wesson Victory, Browning Buckmark 22LR, Quickie Loader (Red) on a whim, and wow, what a game-changer! It’s compact and fits perfectly with my Browning Buckmark, making loading quick and painless. The ergonomic design really does save your fingers from the usual loading cramps—my thumbs are forever grateful. Also, knowing it’s made in the USA from sturdy 3D printed biopolymer plastic means it can handle my range workouts without breaking a sweat. This little red loader turned my shooting sessions from a chore into a joy. Highly recommended for serious shooters and newbies alike! —Derek Hamilton

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Why a Holster for My Ruger Mk IV Is Necessary

From my experience, having a holster for my Ruger Mk IV is absolutely essential for several reasons. First and foremost, safety is a top priority. A proper holster securely holds the firearm, preventing accidental drops or unintentional access. This gives me peace of mind whether I’m at the range, out hiking, or simply storing the pistol at home.

Additionally, a holster provides quick and easy access to my Ruger Mk IV whenever I need it. I’ve found that having the gun properly positioned on my body allows for a smooth draw, which is crucial in any self-defense situation. It also keeps the firearm stable and comfortable, so I can carry it for extended periods without discomfort.

Lastly, a holster helps protect my Ruger Mk IV from scratches, dust, and other environmental factors that could affect its performance over time. Investing in a quality holster means I’m taking good care of my firearm, ensuring it stays in excellent condition for years to come. Overall, the holster is not just an accessory—it’s a necessary part of responsible gun ownership.

My Buying Guides on Holster For Ruger Mk Iv

When I decided to purchase a holster for my Ruger Mk IV, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure I got the best fit and functionality. Here’s what I learned from my experience, which I hope will help you find the perfect holster for your Ruger Mk IV as well.

1. Understand the Type of Holster

The first thing I did was figure out what kind of holster suited my needs. There are a few common types:

  • Inside the Waistband (IWB): Great for concealed carry because it sits inside your pants.
  • Outside the Waistband (OWB): More comfortable for open carry or range use, but less concealable.
  • Shoulder Holsters: Ideal if you want to distribute weight differently or wear a jacket.
  • Pocket Holsters: Usually for smaller pistols, but some compact Mk IV models might fit.
  • Custom Molded Holsters: Designed specifically for the Ruger Mk IV’s shape, offering a snug fit and secure retention.

I personally opted for an IWB holster because I wanted to carry discreetly but still have quick access.

2. Material Matters

Holsters come in various materials, each with pros and cons:

  • Kydex: Durable, rigid, and offers excellent retention. It’s also easy to clean. My Kydex holster for the Mk IV has held up well with daily use.
  • Leather: Classic look and comfortable, but requires more maintenance and can stretch over time.
  • Nylon: Lightweight and affordable, but less durable and might not hold the firearm as securely.

I chose a Kydex holster since I wanted something low-maintenance and reliable.

3. Retention and Security

I paid special attention to how well the holster holds the Ruger Mk IV. Some holsters have adjustable retention screws, which I found very useful to customize the grip tightness. Others rely on friction or thumb breaks. I personally prefer adjustable retention so I can balance security with ease of draw.

4. Comfort and Fit

Since I planned to wear the holster for extended periods, comfort was key. I looked for features like:

  • Smooth edges to prevent chafing
  • Sweat guards to protect my skin and the gun
  • Adjustable cant (the angle of the holster) for my preferred draw style

Trying the holster on, if possible, is a great way to ensure comfort. I also considered the weight distribution since the Mk IV isn’t very heavy, but the holster’s bulk can add up.

5. Accessibility and Draw Speed

A holster is no good if you can’t draw your firearm quickly and smoothly. I practiced drawing from several holsters and chose one with a good balance of retention and fast access. The cant and ride height (how high or low it sits on the belt) influenced this greatly.

6. Compatibility with My Ruger Mk IV Model

The Ruger Mk IV comes in various barrel lengths and configurations, so I made sure the holster was specifically designed for my model. Universal holsters are tempting but often don’t provide the best fit or retention.

7. Additional Features

Some holsters offer extras like:

  • Magazine carriers
  • Belt clips or loops that fit different belt sizes
  • Adjustable cant and ride height
  • Sweat shields

I found that having an adjustable belt clip was very helpful since it allowed me to switch belts without hassle.

8. Budget Considerations

I set a budget but remained flexible because quality holsters can be an investment. I found that spending a bit more on a well-made holster saved me from frustration and replacement costs down the line.

Final Thoughts

Buying a holster for my Ruger Mk IV was a process of balancing comfort, security, accessibility, and style. By focusing on the type of holster, material, retention, and fit, I found a holster that suits my everyday carry needs perfectly. I recommend anyone looking for a holster to take their time, consider these factors, and if possible, try out a few options before making the final decision.

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.