Ruger Security-9 Compact
Sturm, Ruger & Co. · Pistol · In Production · 2019
Also known as: Security-9 Compact, Security 9 Compact
Overview
The Ruger Security-9 Compact is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, produced by Sturm, Ruger & Co. With a 3.4-inch barrel, this firearm prioritizes concealability for everyday carry while still delivering adequate ballistic performance at defensive distances. Safety features include trigger safety, manual safety, internal hammer catch, reflecting modern design standards that prioritize safe handling and operation.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 621 g (21.9 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 771 g (27.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 166 mm (6.54") |
| Barrel Length | 87 mm (3.43") |
| Height | 110 mm (4.33") |
| Width | 26 mm (1.02") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 19.1 N (4.3 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 345 m/s (1132 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 443 J (327 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 45 m (49 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 254 mm (10.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Glass Filled Nylon |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Black Oxide |
Calibers
- 9x19mm Parabellum · primary · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Trigger Safety, Manual Safety, Internal Hammer Catch
- Features: Drift Adjustable Rear Sight, Aluminum Chassis, Full Length Guide Rails, Glass Filled Nylon Frame, Bladed Safety Trigger, Secure Action Trigger System, Compact Frame
Base model
Service history
Operators
- U.S. Civilian Concealed Carry Market · adopted 2019
Production
Production years: 2019-present
High-volume budget compact pistol; one of the most affordable compact 9mm pistols from a major U.S. manufacturer, competing with the Taurus G3c, S&W SD9 VE, and SCCY CPX-2
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The Security-9 Compact uses a protected internal hammer rather than a striker-fired mechanism, differentiating it from many competitors in the compact 9mm market. The Secure Action system provides a consistent trigger pull of approximately 4.25 pounds (19.1 N). The model 3818 includes an external manual safety, while the model 3818 Pro variant omits it. The Compact accepts both its flush-fit 10-round magazine and the full-size Security-9's 15-round magazines with an included grip sleeve adapter. The barrel twist is 1:10-inch right-hand with 6 grooves. The drift-adjustable rear sight allows windage corrections. The pistol is rated for +P ammunition. With a 115-grain FMJ load, the shorter 3.42-inch barrel typically produces approximately 1132 fps (345 m/s) with roughly 443 joules of muzzle energy. MSRP of approximately $389 makes it one of the most affordable compact 9mm pistols from a major manufacturer. Ships with two 10-round magazines.
Background
The Security-9 Compact continued Ruger's strategy of offering reliable, no-frills pistols at aggressive price points, making quality concealed carry accessible to budget-conscious shooters. The Security-9 name itself is a callback to Ruger's classic Security-Six revolver from the 1970s, one of the company's most iconic products. The Compact variant addresses the most popular segment of the handgun market -- affordable compact 9mm pistols for everyday carry -- and has become a staple recommendation for first-time gun buyers seeking a reliable carry pistol without breaking the bank.