Ruger Max-9 Review
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Ruger LC9s - Detailed Review and Comparison
Price Range:
$350 - $600
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| First Build Date | 2014 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 7+1 |
| Barrel Length | 3.12 inches |
| Weight | 17.2 ounces (Unloaded) |
| Price Range | $350 – $450 |
Overview
The Ruger LC9s is a compact, striker-fired semi-automatic pistol, designed for concealed carry and self-defense. It is a lightweight, reliable firearm that combines a smooth trigger pull with a slim profile, making it one of the most popular choices for personal protection.
At just 17.2 ounces, the LC9s is incredibly light, making it easy to carry and conceal. Its 3.12-inch barrel ensures that it is compact without sacrificing too much performance. The magazine holds 7+1 rounds, which is standard for a pistol of its size. The LC9s features a polymer frame with a steel slide, which contributes to its overall durability and ease of maintenance.
Strength and Quality
Ruger is known for producing reliable and affordable firearms, and the LC9s is no exception. The materials used are robust, with a solid steel slide and polymer frame. The fit and finish are good, though not as refined as some higher-end models. The overall build quality, considering its price point, is very good, and it holds up well to regular use.
Safety Features
The Ruger LC9s features several built-in safety mechanisms, including a manual safety, a trigger safety, and an internal striker block to prevent accidental discharge. However, it lacks an external manual safety lever, which may concern some users who prefer a visible safety mechanism on their carry firearm.
Test Results
Accuracy
During testing, the Ruger LC9s demonstrated respectable accuracy. At 7 yards, the pistol consistently grouped within 2.5 inches, and even at 15 yards, it remained accurate enough for self-defense purposes. The manageable recoil ensures a controlled follow-up shot, which is essential for rapid target acquisition.
Durability
The LC9s handled approximately 500 rounds of various 9mm ammunition, including FMJ and hollow points, with minimal wear and tear. There were no malfunctions or failures during this period, showcasing the gun’s reliability. After testing, the recoil spring remained in good condition, and the slide and barrel showed little to no visible signs of damage.
Also Read: Ruger Max-9
Merits
- Lightweight and easy to conceal, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
- Smooth trigger pull, which improves accuracy and handling.
- Reliable performance in testing, with minimal malfunctions.
- Affordable price compared to other 9mm pistols of similar size.
- Durable construction with a polymer frame and steel slide.
Demerits
- Magazine capacity is limited to 7+1 rounds, which may be a drawback for some users.
- The grip may be a bit small for users with larger hands, making it slightly uncomfortable for extended shooting sessions.
- While it is accurate, it is not as refined in terms of precision as some higher-end models.
- No external safety, which may concern some users for safety reasons, relying on internal safeties only.
Maintenance
Maintenance of the Ruger LC9s is straightforward, thanks to its simple design. The pistol can be easily field-stripped for cleaning, and the polymer frame means there’s minimal concern about rust or corrosion. Regular cleaning of the barrel, recoil spring, and slide will help maintain its performance. Given its compact nature, it’s also recommended to lubricate the moving parts regularly to ensure smooth operation.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Ruger LC9s | Glock 43 | Smith & Wesson M&P Shield | Springfield XD-S | Walther PPS M2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magazine Capacity | 7+1 | 6+1 | 7+1 / 8+1 | 7+1 | 6+1 / 7+1 |
| Barrel Length | 3.12 inches | 3.39 inches | 3.1 inches | 3.3 inches | 3.18 inches |
| Weight | 17.2 ounces | 16.7 ounces | 20.8 ounces | 23 ounces | 21.1 ounces |
| Price Range | $350 – $450 | $450 – $550 | $400 – $500 | $400 – $500 | $500 – $600 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Yes, the Ruger LC9s is a lightweight, compact pistol that is well-suited for concealed carry due to its slim profile and manageable weight.
Both the Ruger LC9s and Glock 43 are compact 9mm pistols, but the LC9s has a slightly larger magazine capacity at 7+1. However, the Glock 43 offers a more refined trigger pull and slightly more consistent performance.
The recoil is moderate, but manageable for most users. Given its lightweight construction, it’s designed for quick follow-up shots, making it ideal for self-defense situations.
Yes, the Ruger LC9s can handle +P ammunition, but regular use of +P loads may wear down the recoil spring faster. It's advisable to limit its use to certain defensive situations.
Yes, the Ruger LC9s has a manual safety lever located on the left side of the frame. It can be easily engaged or disengaged while drawing or holstering the weapon.
