New for 2023: Ruger Mark IV 22/45 Lite Optic-Ready with Co-Witness Sights

The newest model Ruger 22/45 Lite Optic-Ready features a mounting position for a standard Shield RMS footprint reflex optic.

by posted on April 12, 2023
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Ruger Mark Iv Lite 1

If you’re a fan of the Ruger Mark IV 22/45 Lite family of rimfire pistols, you’ll notice something a little different about its newest model. See it? Or rather, don't see it? That’s right. No Picatinny rail. In its place is a mounting position for a standard Shield RMS footprint reflex optic. It also features a raised front fiber-optic sight and an adjustable rear sight that co-witness with most micro red-dot optics. The new model has an attractive ventilated rib on top of a clear anodized receiver. 

Like most Ruger Mark IV 22/45 Lite pistols, the new model combines a lightweight, precision-molded, polymer grip frame with a ported, anodized aluminum receiver for a custom pistol look without the custom price. Chambered for the popular .22 LR cartridge, this pistol is fun to shoot, accurate and reliable. Weighing only 22.5 oz., the 22/45 Lite is an ideal lightweight rimfire pistol. The CNC-machined aluminum receiver houses a 4.4-inch stainless steel barrel, held in place by a tension nut to ensure accuracy and a factory-threaded 1/2"-28 muzzle to accept popular muzzle accessories. The comfortable, precision-molded polymer grip frame incorporates replaceable checkered 1911-style grip panels that allow shooters to customize the look of the pistol. The Mark IV 22/45 Lite is the perfect outdoor companion and can be used for target shooting, plinking, small game hunting or competitive shooting. With one-button takedown, two 10-round magazines, and a 1911-style grip angle, it’s the perfect .22-cal. training pistol.

For more information on the Mark IV family or to learn more about the extensive line of award-winning Ruger firearms, visit Ruger.com.

Latest

Deering Recoil Happens 1
Deering Recoil Happens 1

Recoil Happens—So Let It

We spend so much energy worrying about recoil. It’s going to happen, so accept it!

4 Essentials for a Successful Camp Cooking Experience 

The kitchen is the heart of the home—even while camping. Here's how to help cook up the best memories.

Silver Turtles: A Camping Delicacy

Don't worry. No reptiles were harmed during the creation of this campsite favorite.

Springfield Armory Announces Julie Golob's 2026 Bianchi Cup Record-Setting Achievements

Golob used the Echelon 4.0FC 9 mm over the Memorial Day weekend competition, earning top women's honors in multiple divisions and historic placements.

The Armed Citizen® Reload May 29, 2026

An uninvited hotel guest who threatened employees with a knife learned the opposite of hospitality the hard way.

3 Pieces of “Expert” Advice New Gun Owners Can Ignore

With more than 20 years as an NRA Training Counselor, the author is an actual expert firearms instructor. Here's what to watch out for if you are just beginning your journey.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.