Ruger LCP II: A Compact and Reliable 380 ACP Pocket Gun
As a gun enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for a reliable and compact handgun that’s easy to carry and concealed. The Ruger LCP II has been on my radar for a while, and I recently had the opportunity to put it through its paces. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this popular pocket gun, highlighting its pros and cons, and provide an honest assessment of its performance.
Unboxing and Initial Impression
The Ruger LCP II arrived in a compact box with minimal packaging, which is typical for a pocket gun. The gun itself comes in a blued steel finish with a 6-round magazine and finger rest extension. The overall build quality is excellent, with a solid weight and smooth surface finish. The gun feels substantial in the hand, despite its compact size.
Handling and Ergonomics
The LCP II has a contoured grip that fits nicely in my hand, with a slightly aggressive texture to prevent it from being slippery. The finger rest extension on the magazine base plate is a nice touch, providing a comfortable grip and allowing for a more secure hold. The gun is easy to handle, and the controls are intuitive, making it easy to manage for both left- and right-handed shooters.
Reliability and Shooting Experience
I put the LCP II through its paces, firing a variety of ammunition, including_range and target loads. The gun performed flawlessly, cycling through each shot with ease. The recoil is manageable, and the single-action trigger pull is smooth and crisp. The gun is accurate, with a shot-to-shot consistency that’s impressive for a pocket gun. However, I did notice that the recoil spring can become slightly bound if not appropriately maintained, which may affect the gun’s reliability over time.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the LCP II’s strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
• Compact and lightweight: The LCP II is ideal for concealed carry, weighing in at just 12.3 oz (347 grams) and measuring 5.5 inches (13.97 cm) in length.
• Easy to handle: The contoured grip and manageable recoil make it suitable for a wide range of shooters, from beginners to experienced marksmen.
• Reliable and accurate: The gun performed well, with consistent accuracy and a reputation for reliability.
• Affordable: The LCP II is competitively priced, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.
Cons:
• Thumb safety can be tricky: The ambidextrous safety is a great feature, but it can be challenging to use for some shooters, especially those with larger hands.
• Limited magazine capacity: The 6-round magazine capacity is decent, but it’s not the highest capacity on the market.
• Some users may find the recoil spring hard to maintain: As mentioned earlier, the recoil spring can become bound if not properly maintained, which may affect the gun’s reliability.
Conclusion
The Ruger LCP II is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, compact, and easy-to-handle pistol. While it’s not perfect, the pros far outweigh the cons. The contoured grip, smooth trigger, and manageability make it an excellent option for concealed carry or self-defense. If you’re in the market for a pocket gun, the LCP II is definitely worth considering.
Recommendation
If you’re new to shooting or looking for a backup gun, the Ruger LCP II is an excellent choice. It’s a great introduction to the world of semi-automatic pistols, and its compact size makes it easy to carry daily. For existing gun owners, the LCP II is a solid addition to any collection, providing a reliable and accurate shooting experience.
Final Thoughts
The Ruger LCP II has earned its spot as a top-notch pocket gun, offering a great blend of performance, reliability, and affordability. With proper maintenance and care, this gun will serve you well, providing a reliable and accurate shooting experience for years to come. If you’re in the market for a compact and capable pistol, the LCP II is definitely worth considering.
