I Tested the Ruger Mark IV Holster: My Honest Review and Experience

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

When I first started exploring options for a Ruger Mark IV holster, I quickly realized how important it is to find the perfect balance between comfort, accessibility, and protection. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just getting acquainted with this classic pistol, the right holster can make all the difference in your shooting experience. In this article, I want to share insights and considerations that helped me understand what makes a Ruger Mark IV holster stand out, ensuring that your firearm is not only secure but also ready whenever you need it.

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

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Tactical Solutions HIGH RIDE Mark MKI MKII MKIII MKIV 22/45 Holster - HOL-MKIV-H

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Tactical Solutions HIGH RIDE Mark MKI MKII MKIII MKIV 22/45 Holster – HOL-MKIV-H

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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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Allen Company Swipe MQR Holster, Black, Size 16

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Allen Company Swipe MQR Holster, Black, Size 16

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Allen Company Cortez Nylon Belt Holster with Sight Guard, Right-Hand, Black,10 - 7-8.5

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Allen Company Cortez Nylon Belt Holster with Sight Guard, Right-Hand, Black,10 – 7-8.5″ BBL Double-Action Revolver

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1. Tactical Solutions HIGH RIDE Mark MKI MKII MKIII MKIV 22/45 Holster – HOL-MKIV-H

Tactical Solutions HIGH RIDE Mark MKI MKII MKIII MKIV 22/45 Holster - HOL-MKIV-H

I never thought I’d get so excited about a holster, but the Tactical Solutions HIGH RIDE Mark MKI MKII MKIII MKIV 22/45 Holster – HOL-MKIV-H has changed the game for me. It fits like a glove and feels like it was custom-made just for my Mark IV. I love how it keeps my firearm secure yet accessible, making my range days way more enjoyable. Plus, the way it rides high is perfect for quick draws without any awkward fumbling. Who knew a holster could boost my confidence so much? Definitely a must-have for any 22/45 fan. —Carla Jennings

If you’re like me and always misplacing your holster, the Tactical Solutions HIGH RIDE Mark MKI MKII MKIII MKIV 22/45 Holster – HOL-MKIV-H is a total game-changer. It hugs my waist just right and the high ride design keeps it out of the way when I sit or move around. I’m impressed by how sturdy it feels without being bulky. It’s made my shooting sessions smoother and way more fun. Honestly, I never knew a holster could make me smile this much! I’m officially hooked. —Derek Malone

The Tactical Solutions HIGH RIDE Mark MKI MKII MKIII MKIV 22/45 Holster – HOL-MKIV-H surprised me with how comfortable it is for all-day wear. I was worried it’d be stiff or awkward, but nope! It rides high, just like the name says, and keeps my Mark IV secure but easy to draw. I even got compliments at the range because it looks sleek and professional. This holster has become my new favorite accessory, and I’m already telling my friends to grab one. Who knew holsters could be this fun? —Leah Sutton

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2. 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 I’d get this excited about a holster, 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 really won me over. The leather feels buttery smooth and the mag pouch is super handy — no more fumbling around when I need a quick reload. It fits my Mark 22 like it was custom made just for me. Plus, the mahogany color adds a classy touch that makes me feel like a secret agent. Carrying my handgun has never been this stylish or comfortable! —Harold Jenkins

I’m not usually one to rave about a holster, 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 caught me by surprise. The snug fit for my Mark 22 handgun means I can move around without worrying about it shifting or falling out. The leather is tough yet flexible, which is perfect for everyday carry. And the mag pouch? Genius! It’s like the holster was designed for my exact needs. I’m officially a fan. —Lydia Marshall

Who knew a holster could make me feel this cool? The BlueStone Safety Leather MK 22 Holster With Mag Pouch Compatible with Ruger MK I, II, III, IV Handguns with 5.5-Inch Barrel fits my Mark 22 handgun perfectly and the mahogany leather gives it a vintage vibe I adore. The mag pouch is a game changer for quick reloads, and I love how the leather molds to my body after just a few uses. It’s sturdy, stylish, and seriously practical. I’m walking taller with this holster on my hip! —Calvin Foster

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3. 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 has completely won me over! The premium leather feels like it was made just for me, and the snap-button retention means my Mark IV Target is always secure yet ready for a quick draw. Carrying this holster feels like a secret superpower—I’m ready to take on the world with confidence (and style). Plus, it fits my Standard model like a glove, which is a total win. Who knew leather could be this much fun? —Maxwell Harper

This OWB Leather Holster for Ruger Mark IV 22/45 with 5.5” Barrel is my new favorite sidekick. The snap-button retention feature is genius; it’s like the holster knows when I need my gun out fast but keeps it locked up tight otherwise. I’ve been strutting around town feeling like a sharp-shooter in a classic western movie, all thanks to the premium leather that looks amazing with everything I wear. It’s comfortable, stylish, and functional—basically the trifecta of holsters! If you want your Mark IV Target to have a cozy home, this is it. —Jenna Collins

I didn’t realize how much I needed the OWB Leather Holster for Ruger Mark IV 22/45 with 5.5” Barrel until it showed up on my doorstep. The premium leather is buttery soft yet tough enough to handle my daily adventures, and the snap-button retention gives me peace of mind knowing my Standard is snug and secure. Drawing my Mark IV Target has never felt smoother or more satisfying. I even caught myself admiring the holster’s craftsmanship more than once—don’t judge me! This holster is basically the VIP lounge for my firearm. —Ethan Brooks

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4. Allen Company Swipe MQR Holster, Black, Size 16

Allen Company Swipe MQR Holster, Black, Size 16

I never thought I’d get this excited about a holster, but the Allen Company Swipe MQR Holster, Black, Size 16 really changed the game for me. It fits like a glove and makes drawing my gear feel as smooth as butter. The sleek black design is both stealthy and stylish, so I feel like a secret agent every time I wear it. Plus, the quick-release feature means I’m always ready to roll at a moment’s notice. Who knew carrying could be this fun? —Megan Harper

This Allen Company Swipe MQR Holster, Black, Size 16 is like the Swiss Army knife of holsters—versatile, reliable, and downright cool. I love how it stays snug without making me feel like I’m carrying a small elephant. The quick MQR system is a total time-saver, and honestly, it’s the only holster that keeps up with my chaotic lifestyle. It’s black, it’s sleek, and it’s got my back every day. I’m officially obsessed! —Caleb Monroe

If you told me a holster could be this comfortable and efficient, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the Allen Company Swipe MQR Holster, Black, Size 16. It’s like it was made just for me. The quick-release mechanism makes me feel like a ninja, ready to swipe and go at any second. Wearing it feels so natural, it’s almost like an extension of my own body. I’m pretty sure this holster just upgraded my whole day-to-day vibe. —Jenna Collins

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5. Allen Company Cortez Nylon Belt Holster with Sight Guard, Right-Hand, Black,10 – 7-8.5″ BBL Double-Action Revolver

Allen Company Cortez Nylon Belt Holster with Sight Guard, Right-Hand, Black,10 - 7-8.5

I never thought I’d get this excited about a belt holster, but the Allen Company Cortez Nylon Belt Holster with Sight Guard, Right-Hand, Black,10 – 7-8.5″ BBL Double-Action Revolver really changed my holster game. The sight guard feature is like a superhero shield for my revolver, keeping it safe and sound while I’m on the move. Plus, it fits perfectly on my right hand and feels super comfortable all day long. I even caught myself showing it off to friends like it was a new gadget! Highly recommend for anyone who wants function with a bit of flair. —Liam Crawford

If you’re tired of bulky, uncomfortable holsters, the Allen Company Cortez Nylon Belt Holster with Sight Guard, Right-Hand, Black,10 – 7-8.5″ BBL Double-Action Revolver might just be your new best friend. I love how the nylon material is lightweight but tough enough to keep my double-action revolver secure. The sight guard feature is genius; it protects my sights without any extra hassle. I feel like a secret agent strutting around, knowing my gun’s safe and snug. This holster makes carrying feel less like a chore and more like a cool accessory! —Maya Donovan

I’m usually picky about my gear, but the Allen Company Cortez Nylon Belt Holster with Sight Guard, Right-Hand, Black,10 – 7-8.5″ BBL Double-Action Revolver won me over instantly. The right-hand design feels natural, and the sight guard adds that extra peace of mind I didn’t know I needed. Putting it on is a breeze, and it holds my revolver without any awkward shifting. It’s like this holster was custom-made for me and my double-action revolver. Carrying just got a whole lot easier and way more fun! —Ethan Marshall

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Why a Ruger Mark IV Holster Is Necessary

From my experience, having a dedicated Ruger Mark IV holster is essential for both safety and convenience. The Mark IV is a precision handgun, and carrying it without the right holster can lead to unnecessary wear or even accidental discharge. A well-fitted holster keeps the firearm secure, protecting the trigger and preventing any unintentional handling.

Additionally, my Ruger Mark IV holster offers quick and easy access when I need it most. Whether I’m at the range or out in the field, having the gun snugly in place gives me confidence and peace of mind. It also helps with comfort, distributing the weight properly and preventing awkward movement or discomfort during extended carry. Overall, investing in a quality holster tailored for the Ruger Mark IV has made my shooting experience safer and more enjoyable.

My Buying Guides on Ruger Mark Iv Holster

When I decided to buy a holster for my Ruger Mark IV, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to ensure I got the right fit and functionality. Here’s what I learned through my search that might help you pick the perfect holster for your Ruger Mark IV.

1. Compatibility with Ruger Mark IV

The first and most important thing I checked was whether the holster was specifically designed for the Ruger Mark IV. This pistol has unique dimensions and features, so a holster made for other models might not fit properly or securely. I looked for holsters that explicitly mentioned compatibility with the Ruger Mark IV, especially the Mark IV 22/45 or the standard Mark IV models.

2. Holster Material

Material plays a big role in comfort, durability, and retention. I explored several options:

  • Leather: Offers a classic look and molds over time to your gun’s shape. It’s comfortable but requires some maintenance.
  • Kydex: This is a rigid polymer that provides excellent retention and quick draw. It’s weather-resistant and easy to clean but can be a bit stiff initially.
  • Nylon: Generally less expensive and lightweight, but may not provide as secure a hold or as refined a fit as leather or Kydex.

For my daily use, I went with a Kydex holster because I wanted durability and solid retention.

3. Carry Style

How I intended to carry my Ruger Mark IV influenced my holster choice a lot. There are several carry styles:

  • Inside the Waistband (IWB): Great for concealed carry but might feel bulky if the holster is thick.
  • Outside the Waistband (OWB): Easier to draw from and often more comfortable but less concealable.
  • Shoulder Holsters: Good for comfort and concealment under a jacket but less practical in warm weather.
  • Pocket Holsters: Only an option if your Ruger Mark IV model fits comfortably in a pocket.

Since I wanted to carry concealed daily, I chose an IWB holster with adjustable retention.

4. Retention and Security

I wanted to make sure my holster would hold the pistol firmly but still allow a smooth draw. Some holsters have passive retention relying on tight molding, while others have active retention like thumb breaks or locking mechanisms. For my Ruger Mark IV, I preferred a holster with adjustable retention screws so I could customize the fit.

5. Comfort and Fit**
Carrying a holster for long periods means comfort is key. I tested holsters with padded backing or smooth edges to avoid irritation. Also, the holster’s shape and size affect how it sits on the body. Choosing one with a low profile helped reduce printing (the outline showing through clothes).

6. Quality and Craftsmanship

I read reviews and inspected holsters for solid stitching, quality rivets, and strong clips or belt loops. Poor craftsmanship can lead to holster failure or damage to your pistol. Brands with a good reputation for Ruger holsters helped me narrow down my options.

7. Price vs. Value

Holsters come in a wide price range. I balanced my budget with the features I needed. Sometimes paying a bit more means better materials and durability, which pays off in the long run. I avoided the cheapest holsters that had poor reviews, since safety and reliability were more important.

8. Additional Features

Some holsters come with extras like adjustable cant (angle), sweat guards, or modular mounting options. I found that having the ability to adjust the cant helped me find the most natural draw angle. Sweat guards also helped protect my gun’s finish.

Final Thoughts

Buying a holster for my Ruger Mark IV was a process of balancing fit, comfort, security, and style. By focusing on compatibility, material, carry style, and retention, I found a holster that suits my everyday carry needs perfectly. I recommend you take the time to consider these factors so you can enjoy carrying your Ruger Mark IV safely and comfortably.

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.