I can get a NIB 5.5" MK III for around $280 where a 5.5" MK IV is about $420.
Is the MK IV worth the extra $140?
The MKIV also has a spring in the bottom of the grip to help eject magazines. It also has a bolt hold open latch that works more like a slide lock on conventional pistol. On a MKIII the locked open bolt has to be released with the button. The MKIV will release by running the bolt after a loaded magazine is inserted. VQ makes a latch to "fix" a MKIII to run like the MKIV. The also make magazine pads that have a spring in them to assist with ejection, but they are not cheap.
As Dennis said above, there is a speed strip kit for the MKIII. However, be careful because it may limit options with trigger upgrades.
I'd go with the MKIV if you are going to shoot comps. If you are a casual plinker, you might be happy with a MKIII. Watching a YouTube video every time you reassemble it will work or add a speed strip kit.
My old beat up Mark III hunter runs pretty good in comps. I have noticed after God knows how many thousands of rounds down the pipe I'm getting some wear on internal parts though.
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