whats the difference between a 22/45 and a MKIII?

[Markus]

I have been mulling over various pistols for my first pistol purchase. I've been looking at the Rugers and am wondering if there is much of a difference between the 22/45 and MKIII?

I'm debating on one of these or a S&W M&P9

 

[mmattockx]

The frame is completely different shape and the feel very different. The 22/45 is meant to mimic the feel of a 1911 Colt, while the Mk.III is an original for the most part.

22/45:

Mk. III:

As for choosing between these and a M&P9, they really are apples and oranges. I would suggest the rimfire first to learn to shoot well, then buy a 9mm once you have some experience and a better idea of what you want and like. 1000 rounds of 9mm is $220+, 1000 rounds of .22Lr is ~$50. You need to practice and rimfire lets you do that for cheap, with minimal recoil to avoid flinching and learning a pile of bad habits.


Mark

 

[cableguy]

The Mark III's grip angle is very much like a Glock while the 22/45 is your traditional 1911 grip angle.
Go to your lgs and handle them, see which one points more naturally for you.
And I agree with starting with a .22 first.
Good luck!

 

[trebor2880]

22/45 frame is plastic

 

[Allstone]

I had a 22/45 MkIII...while I generally liked it, I would have preferred a slightly thicker grip.

 

[CaffeineSam]

22/45 frame is plastic

... while Mk. III is all-steel.

 

[happiness is a warm gun]

They are both mklll........third generations with mag disconects, a loaded chamber indicator. The standard Ruger pistol has had the mag release moved from the heel to the grip. The 22/45 is just a plastic version of the gun with a grip angle similar to a 45. The 22/45 has also had three changes to the gripp configuration also. The only operating differance between the two guns is that the bolt can not be released on the 22/45 by pulling it back. You must use the bolt release on this model. But for a first gun......get a .22

 

[happiness is a warm gun]

Oops