Ruger 22/45 Lite Gold Anodized
- Thread starter Sniper66
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I own two 22/45s, but not that particular model. I doubt if there's any difference in the Lite and the models that I own. However, I'd highly recommend installing an aftermarket hammer bushing and 86ing that silly mag cutoff. I'd also remove the bolt release detent and spring, giving the option of either slingshoting or using the bolt release.
I've installed the entire VQ accurizing kit in one of mine; only the VQ trigger in the other.
They're great shooters!
I've installed the entire VQ accurizing kit in one of mine; only the VQ trigger in the other.
They're great shooters!
ColtPythonElite
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- Jan 8, 2011
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I have shot the Lite. Yep, it is light. I don't care for it, though. I doubt the finish is all that durable.
I've owned four 5.5 BB Ruger 22's over the years. Including the original MK I (1977), blued MK II (1981) and two SS MK II's (1985 & 96) and had been wanting a 22/45 for a long time but just couldn't justify it. The "Lite" version push me off the fence. (It seems the older I get the more I like light guns.)
I picked one up in November of last year. After the first range trip I was not real impressed. Unlike the changes from MK I to MK II that were all design improvements, the MK III changes really interfere with normal operator interface. The gun was 100% reliable and shot well but the mag safety made operation frustrating to say the least. Fortunately, this problem is easily corrected by removal of the offending parts (as mentioned in a previous response). After the fix, I really like the gun. As for the finish, there is no problem as it holds up like any other aluminium anodized finish be it black, silver or whatever.
JAC
I picked one up in November of last year. After the first range trip I was not real impressed. Unlike the changes from MK I to MK II that were all design improvements, the MK III changes really interfere with normal operator interface. The gun was 100% reliable and shot well but the mag safety made operation frustrating to say the least. Fortunately, this problem is easily corrected by removal of the offending parts (as mentioned in a previous response). After the fix, I really like the gun. As for the finish, there is no problem as it holds up like any other aluminium anodized finish be it black, silver or whatever.
JAC
weblance
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- Sep 15, 2011
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I have close to 7,000 rounds though my Gold Lite. I eliminated the mag disco, and did the slingshot mod, and its a very accurate, reliable pistol. I have 2 other 22/45s, both steel uppers, and the LITE has a bit more "jump" when shooting because its lighter. I think its an excellent pistol for trail use, hunting, and camping. I would strap it on, if I was going to carry a 22 pistol all day, long before the steel pistols, because it is so light. I dont see any downside to it, compared to the steel pistols.
sappyg
Member
The Lite is another home run for Ruger. It runs just a tick behind the target model in the accuracy department but that's to be expected. Supposedly has a tendency to lead the bore more than a standard model with some ammo. YMMV.
Runs as good as any, or better, than any 22 pistol available IMO.
It looks to be the preferred choice for local steel matches here but I can't say if there is a true bennifit with this model for these matches. I like it but I'm not sure that you can hit faster with it just because its lighter.
Local LGS tend to price them on the high side but I think there is good value in this model below the $400 mark.... $350 NIB is a good number if you're patient .... meaning don't hold your breath for it.
Runs as good as any, or better, than any 22 pistol available IMO.
It looks to be the preferred choice for local steel matches here but I can't say if there is a true bennifit with this model for these matches. I like it but I'm not sure that you can hit faster with it just because its lighter.
Local LGS tend to price them on the high side but I think there is good value in this model below the $400 mark.... $350 NIB is a good number if you're patient .... meaning don't hold your breath for it.
I like mine and have done a lot of work getting it into the dream realm with the trigger. They can definitely be tuned like any other Ruger MK.
They are selling well because I have made over 100 custom holsters for them and I have not been taking orders for almost a year.
As far as the finish, mine has been shot, carried used AND wet molded over 100 holsters and the finish looks like it did the day I brought it home.
They are selling well because I have made over 100 custom holsters for them and I have not been taking orders for almost a year.
As far as the finish, mine has been shot, carried used AND wet molded over 100 holsters and the finish looks like it did the day I brought it home.
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