Paul G. Markel, a combat-decorated Marine and founder of Student the Gun University, told an acquaintance considering a carry-pistol optic to train extensively on the range first. He uses a Ruger Mark IV 22/45 Lite in .22 LR with a Trijicon RMR and AAC Element 2 suppressor as an inexpensive, hearing-safe trainer that strips without tools and has a factory rail plus threaded barrel. The setup has helped friends and relatives learn red-dot aiming and basic handgun handling.