What's the advantage of Ruger Mark III's fluted barrel?

[Zorba]

Originally Posted by John Sabato

Regarding the fluted barrel on the target version of the Ruger .22 auto. I would have to submit that they are purely decorative in this instance, since rigidity could hardly be an issue in a barrel only 6 inches long... flutes may play a roll in a bench rest type target barrel... but not on a pistol...IMHO.

I have a 6 inch tapered barrel on mine and it is a great fun and accurate gun to shoot, even with standard non-adjustable sights.

That's a mighty fine lookin' Nambu - er Ruger - you have there!