Ruger defined the modern, semi-automatic pocket pistol category with its 2008 introduction of the .380 ACP-chambered Lightweight, Compact Pistol (LCP). Other makes and models were also available for this niche, some quite similar to the LCP, but the Ruger design helped fuel demand for mouse guns and, notably, the company’s manufacturing muscle was capable of meeting that demand. Small, lightweight personal firepower was the name of the game, and the Ruger LCP quickly became the most recognizable, and available, firearm in its class. 
Though the LCP was a runaway success with more than 1.5 million sold in less than nine years, Ruger and law-abiding armed citizens across the United States recognized some areas where the design could be improved. The LCP’s trigger was too heavy, the sights were nigh unusable and the ergonomics, while snag-free by design, did little to improve handling, especially when the little gun was under recoil.
New for 2016 is the Ruger LCP II, and American Rifleman’s Joe Kurtenbach was able to get some pre-launch range time with the gun. Designed to be as portable and reliable as the original LCP, the LCP II addresses its predecessors shortcomings, and adds some features that the company hopes will make it the best-in-class option within the pocket pistol category.
For more, visit Ruger.com.
Ruger LCP II
Action Type: recoil-operated, center-fire semi-automatic pistol
Chambering: .380 ACP
Barrel: 2.75”
Rifling: six-groove, 1:16” RH twist
Slide: alloy steel, blued finish
Height: 3.71”
Width: 0.91”
Overall Length: 5.17”
Weight: 10.6 ozs.
Sights: integral blade front, notch rear
Magazine: detachable box, six-round capacity
