[Fishhead]

I've saved my pennies, and I'm finally going to get a MK III pistol. The local Cabela's has the MK III 22/45 on sale for $270. I'm leaning towards the 22/45 since it has the same geometry as my 1911, which should be handy.

My concern is that ALL the other MK III models go for $325+. I've found that usually you get what you pay for. Is there some issue with the 22/45 that keeps it about $50 dollars cheaper than all the other MK IIIs?

Opinions???

[madcratebuilder]

You are right about the 22/45 having the same geometry. I think the composite frame has hurt sales with more traditional gun owners. Plus the grips are integral of the frame.
As far as function it is just like all the other MK's. The 22/45 has a magazine disconnector, it can be removed by using a MK II hammer, or a spacer (easy mod)
I milled the factory grips off my frame and added a set of 1911 grips and screws. I have done several others for guys who saw mine at the range. With this mod the 22/45 has the same width as a 1911 grip.

[Dan22]

Wow, those grips certainly help the looks of that Ruger.

I like the traditional all-metal guns with separate grips so I've been looking at the MK-III but your grip modifications help make the 22/45 look more enticing.

Nice job.

[nathangdad]

on more powerful handguns. The thing you really should do is look on the internet for custom triggers/components or gunsmiths working on the Ruger .22's.

I'm not saying the factory trigger is all bad yet if you have fired on these guns with a real trigger job the improvement is more than worth the cost.

[SwedeSteve]

Those grips look nice !! I have Hogue grips with the thumbrest on my MK II and really like them !!

[Fishhead]

MadCrate,

Thanks for the info. I think I'll give the 22/45 a go.

Very nice looking mod to your grips, too.

[madcratebuilder]

Several guys have used a Dremel tool to remove the factory grip. You can find 1911 panels on evil bay for 10-15 bucks and a screw and bushing kit is 10 bucks. Really makes a difference in the feel of the pistol.
As far as the trigger, it is easy to stone or you can buy a trigger kit.

[DaTeacha]

Great! Now you guys have me contemplating another project while the AR is far from done. Has anyone done the grips to a Mk II 22/45?

[stalkingbear]

Personally, I highly prefer the all steel version. I'd choose the hunter or slab competition series ( I did-3 times).

[madcratebuilder]

Quote:       Originally Posted by DaTeacha

Great! Now you guys have me contemplating another project while the AR is far from done. Has anyone done the grips to a Mk II 22/45?

I think it's the same process. Cut/grind the original panel off, drill and epoxy the new screw bushings and your done. You have to notch the 1911 panels in a few spots for clearance.

Same 22/45 with white grips and a holo.

[TechTeach]

I didn't want to grip off the grips on the polymer grip frame so I made grips that would fit the MKIII 22/45 polymer grip frame. I like the polymer grip frame for competition shooting it is light which makes it quick to bring onto and move between targets. This is a picture of my MKIII 22/45 with the grips I made also notice the extended base pad on the picture of the grey grips.