Ruger LCP
Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. · Pistol · In Production · 2008
Also known as: LCP, Lightweight Compact Pistol
Overview
The Ruger LCP is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 ACP, produced by Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. Featuring a 6-round magazine capacity, this pistol offers compact firepower for concealed carry applications. With a 2.8-inch barrel, this firearm prioritizes concealability for everyday carry while still delivering adequate ballistic performance at defensive distances. At 273g (9.6 oz) unloaded, this lightweight firearm is optimized for comfortable all-day carry without creating undue fatigue or printing concerns.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 273 g (9.6 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 340 g (12.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 131 mm (5.16") |
| Barrel Length | 70 mm (2.76") |
| Height | 91 mm (3.58") |
| Width | 21 mm (0.83") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 262 m/s (860 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 212 J (156 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 15 m (16 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1000 m (1094 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .380 ACP · primary — also known as .380 Auto, 9mm Browning Short, 9x17mm, 9mm Kurz
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Internal Hammer Block, Magazine Disconnect
- Features: Recessed Hammer, Finger Grip Extension Floorplate, Fixed Integral Sights, Snag Free Profile, Accessory Rail, Ambidextrous Slide Stop, Textured Grip, Loaded Chamber Indicator
Variants
- Ruger LCP II — Improved
- Ruger LCP MAX — High Capacity
- Ruger LCP II .22 LR — Caliber Variant
Service history
Operators
- U.S. Law Enforcement (Backup)
- U.S. Civilian Concealed Carry Market · adopted 2008
Production
Production years: 2008-present
One of the best-selling pistols in the United States; exact production numbers not disclosed but estimated in the millions
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The LCP was inspired by the Kel-Tec P-3AT and shares similar dimensions. The LCP II (2016) improved upon the original with a better trigger, last-round slide hold-open, and improved sights. The LCP MAX (2021) introduced a double-stack magazine holding 10+1 rounds in a nearly identical footprint. The original LCP uses a locked-breech tilting-barrel design despite firing a blowback-class cartridge. A 7-round extended magazine with finger grip extension is available. The LCP is commonly used as a backup pistol by law enforcement officers and as a primary carry gun in warm-weather conditions where deep concealment is necessary.
Background
The Ruger LCP single-handedly created the modern pocket pistol market when it launched in 2008, inspiring a wave of ultra-compact .380 ACP competitors from virtually every major manufacturer. At just 273 grams, it proved that a centerfire pistol could be light enough to carry in a front pocket without a second thought.