NRA Gun of the Week: Ruger LCP MAX

by
posted on November 19, 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. **

There is no doubt that Ruger has earned its reputability in the concealed-carry and personal-defense pistol market since the 2008 release of its LCP semi-automatic chambered for .380 ACP. Now in its third design phase, Ruger is well-poised to earn more kudos with its latest LCP iteration.

left side black gun pistol handgun plastic steel text on image noting "RUGER LCP MAX"

 

Meet the LCP MAX: Ruger has effectively doubled the capacity of its previous two micro-compact pistol designs with the release of its LCP pistol while also supplying thoughtful improvements throughout. Just like the older LCP and LCP II micro-compacts that came before it, Ruger’s LCP MAX comes to market as a locked-breech, polymer-frame semi-automatic.

column three stack row handgun pistol magazines ammunition

 

The LCP MAX comes from the box measuring just barely over 5”-long by 4”-tall, and though the little hand-held pistol boasts a fully loaded capacity for up to 13 rounds, it is important to note the gun weighs under 11 ozs. empty, too. For those looking for an easy-to-carry pistol with capacity to boot, the LCP MAX just might be the best choice in Ruger’s impressive lineup of centerfire and rimfire protection tools.

black gun parts metal plastic pistol handgun

 

Changes incorporated into the LCP MAX design made a noticeable improvement over past iterations by offering a widened grip with panels of enhanced texturing—needless to say, Ruger’s LCP MAX more controllable than the original. Further enhancing the shootability of diminutive LCP MAX is the supplied a single-action trigger. Additionally, racking the slide is noticeably easier on the LCP MAX, thanks to the extended slide wings.

man black shirt ballcap earmuffs shooting black handgun pistol range guns

 

Learn more by watching our NRA Gun of the Week video, where American Rifleman staff shoot and talk about Ruger’s LCP MAX.

Ruger LCP MAX Specifications
Manufacturer: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Action Type: recoil-operated, semi-automatic, centerfire pistol
Chambering: .380 ACP
Barrel: 2.8"
Frame: glass-filled nylon
Slide: alloy steel
Finish: black oxide
Sights: adjustable U-notch, serrated rear; tritium post front
Magazine: 10- or 12-round detachable box
Height: 4.12"
Length: 5/17
Width: 0.81" (slide)
Weight: 10.6 ozs.
MSRP: $449

Latest

jammed cartridge in chamber
jammed cartridge in chamber

Rifleman Q&A: Understanding a Firearm's Cycle of Operation

The cycle of operation is the mechanical sequence of events that it takes to fire one shot out of a firearm. If one of those steps fails to take place as designed, there is an interruption in the cycle of operation and the gun stops firing.

Review: Sightmark Pinnacle 1-6x24 mm Riflescope

Looking for a performance LPVO without the usual associated cost? The Sightmark Pinnacle 1-6x24 mm might be your answer.

Myths & Misunderstandings About the “Modern Fighting 1911”

The Colt Model 1911 pistol and its derivatives are among the most iconic military handguns ever made. But in 2026, does the M1911 still hold up as a quality defensive arm?

Heir Apparent: The CZ 600+ Carbine

CZ's 527 action was long a popular option scaled around compact cartridges like the .223 Remington and the 7.62x39 mm. Now, the new CZ 600+ Carbine brings that same concept to the company's new CZ 600 series.

I Carry: Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard in an ANR Design Holster

In our latest "I Carry" setup, we're featuring the Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard in an ANR Design holster, and we've got a Streamlight EDC flashlight to round out our kit.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 23, 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.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.