At The Range: Ruger LCP MAX

by
posted on July 25, 2021
** 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. **

New for 2021 is Ruger’s LCP MAX, a semi-automatic pistol chambered for .380 ACP based off the company’s popular LCP pistol. The new LCP MAX brings a number of improvements, including increased capacity, to the lightweight LCP design. Watch the video above with American Rifleman staff to see the LCP MAX in action.

At all corners of Ruger’s LCP MAX are improvements that better service the trending market of concealed carry handguns by creating a compact and lightweight pistol with serviceable sights, improved ergonomics, functionality and increased ammunition capacity. At just under 11 ounces empty, the LCP MAX comes with a 10-round capacity magazine, with 12-round units available at ShopRuger.com.

The LCP MAX features a textured grip frame that provides a secure and comfortable grip that, when combined with the company’s 12-round magazine, a full, three-finger grip is allowed, making for a subcompact pistol that is easier to handle and shoot accurately. Previous LCP designs offered integral, non-adjustable sighting, but the new LCP MAX comes with a sighting arrangement dovetailed to the steel slide using the S&W BodyGuard pattern. The rear sight features a tactical ledge for cocking. Tritium comes standard.

Ruger’s LCP improvement of its LCP MAX enhances the popular pocket-pistol design with an improved frame that contains panels of grip texturing that are wisely placed on all sides for added purchase. Ruger supplies raised cocking ears and functional serrations at the front and rear for easier manipulation.

Overall length of the LCP MAX comes to just over 5” long with a alloy steel slide that houses a 2.8” steel barrel. Ruger employs patented features, such as its improved barrel cam for reliable function and recoil reduction. In addition, the LCP MAX features an improved magazine feed lips and a barrel feed ramp that has been modified from previous designs. Though modified for larger magazines and only measuring 0.81” wide, the LCP MAX fits most existing LCP II holsters.

Watch the video above to see the LCP MAX at the range. For more information, go to ruger.com.

Latest

Gotw Tristar Arms Kr22 1
Gotw Tristar Arms Kr22 1

Gun of the Week: TriStar Arms KR.22

Semi-automatic .22 rifles have been a staple in the firearm marketplace for decades, and the TriStar Arms KR.22 brings yet another lightweight, affordable option that accepts Ruger 10/22 rotary magazines.

Political Report | Trump Reiterates National Right-to-Carry Support

I am repeatedly reminded of how critical it was that the NRA engaged early in supporting Donald Trump’s 2016 candidacy—and that he won. A recent example came in June, when President Trump spoke to American workers at a Mack Trucks facility in Macungie, Pa.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 21, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The Norinco TU-33/40: A Rimfire Mauser Lookalike from China

The Norinco TU-33/40 is, at a glance, a copy of a Mauser 98k with a few choice details that give away the fact that it’s not a big-bore World War II workhorse.

AI Tools Enter the Used-Gun Market

Companies that deal in the used-gun market are not shy about sharing the advantages their AI-driven tools and services.

Standing Guard | Standing on the Line for Freedom

This past August marks 46 years since I raised my right hand and was commissioned as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps. In the summer of 1980, I entered active duty with a firm sense of civic duty and a deep desire to serve our great nation. Like so many who wear the uniform, I was ready to contribute directly to the defense of freedom.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.