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

Smith Wesson Model 29 10 Facts 1
Smith Wesson Model 29 10 Facts 1

10 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know About The Smith & Wesson Model 29

Without a doubt, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 is one of the 20th century’s most shootable, collectible "superstar" revolvers. Here are a few little-known facts about the gun.

Packable Punch: Discreet Ways to Carry More Firepower

While folding and takedown firearms chambered for full-power rifle cartridges may be niche defensive tools, the dark situations in which they shine brightest aren’t going away anytime soon.

Southpaw Solution: Ruger Introduces Left-Handed American Gen II Ranch Rifles

Traditionally, Ruger has offered a range of left-handed rifle models for the southpaws among us, and now, the company's Gen II American rifles are available in a left-handed variant, starting with the Ranch models.

Gun of the Week: Kimber 1911 DS Warrior LW

In 2026, Kimber developed its 1911 DS Warrior, an American-made, double-stack design that is intended to be an affordable entry point into Kimber's double-stack handgun line.

The Armed Citizen® April 24, 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.

Spin Difference: The Impact of Barrel Twist Rates on Terminal Performance

When most shooters think of rifling-twist rates, they mostly think of rifles with their high BC projectiles, but the rpm of a bullet also plays a part in terminal performance.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.