Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature currently requires accessing the site using the built-in Safari browser.
You are using the old High Contrast theme. We have installed a new dark theme for you, called UI.X. This will work better with the new upgrade of our software. You can select it at the bottom of any page.
Hello,
I am considering the Ruger MK III 22/45 for general practice and competition target shooting. What are the pros/cons of the 4.5" threaded barrel vs the 5.5" non-threaded barrel - particularly in terms of accuracy? Thanks for your advice.
First of all welcome to the forum!
The wife has the shorty barrel with a red dot sight on hers. The gun shoots like a house a fire.
I own the 5.5 inch version with HI-viz sights on it. There seems to be little difference. The balance is a bit better with the 5.5incher in my opinion.
Ruger would have made sure that the threaded barrel would not get in the way of a bullet or cause some kind of unwanted contact with the threads.
From everything I've gathered on RFC, the difference in accuracy under 25 yards in terms of barrel length is negligible between the 4.5, 5.5 and 6 7/8ths and barrels.
Obviously the longer the barrel, the more velocity you will get, but that doesn't matter much with standard velocity 22 rounds, which are what will be most accurate anyway.
If you are going to ever contemplate shooting metal plates you'll need the longest barrel you can get. The longer barrel gives more velocity and energy for knock plates over. For plinking the 5.5" barrel should be OK but I'd consider a longer barrel, i.e. 6 7/8" for competition.
The added weight of a longer barrel is also helpful for competition. You'll find that the 22/45 models are pretty lightweight.
I find I like the balance of my 5.5", but I also shove my hand about as high on the grip as I can. So it doesn't seem too topheavy to me.
I also don't see the point of having a threaded barrel if you don't use it. If you like the length or just the option, that's great. Personally, I'd have to put a compensator on it to feel right, to me.
If you want to suppress it, grab whichever you want. You can always have the 5.5" threaded for a pittance of what the actual suppressor would cost, anyway.
I have a MK II era 22/45 with four inch bull barrel that I like a lot. I also have a few MK II's with the 5.5 inch bull barrel. I like them both but the longer, bull barrel may make the 22/45 a bit top heavy, but many seem to enjoy them so get the one that feels good to YOU.
Well, shorter barrels typically equate to faster target transition and sight alignment, while longer barrels typically equate to more precision due to longer sight radius. My advice would be that it all depends on which area you lack in. I personally have the 4 1/2" as it is the closest to a service sized sidearm and I am plenty fast and accurate with it. That's just my two cents. Good luck.
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.