Introduction
The Concealed Carry Landscape
In the ever-evolving world of concealed carry, choosing the right handgun can feel like navigating a complex maze. The market is flooded with options, each vying for a spot in your waistband or purse. Amongst the myriad of choices, Ruger has consistently proven to be a popular and trusted name, particularly when it comes to affordable and reliable firearms for personal protection. Their commitment to producing practical and effective pistols has made them a favorite amongst both seasoned shooters and those new to the world of self-defense.
Introducing the Contenders
Two particular models that have gained considerable traction in the subcompact category are the Ruger LC9 and its evolved counterpart, the LC9s.
Article Purpose
These two pistols, while sharing a similar lineage and intended purpose, present distinct differences that can significantly impact your shooting experience and, ultimately, your choice. This article delves deep into the world of the Ruger LC9 and LC9s, offering a comprehensive comparison to help you decide which subcompact pistol best suits your individual needs and preferences. We’ll explore the nuances of their design, handling characteristics, and performance, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner looking to expand your concealed carry options or a first-time buyer seeking a reliable firearm, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each model is crucial. Let’s begin by examining the foundations of these compact contenders.
Overview of the Ruger LC9
Historical Context
The Ruger LC9, introduced to the market several years ago, emerged as a direct response to the growing demand for slim, lightweight, and easily concealable pistols chambered in a defensive caliber. Its initial release marked a significant entry into the subcompact 9mm market, providing a compelling alternative for those seeking a smaller, more manageable firearm than the full-size options prevalent at the time. The LC9 was designed to be a readily accessible and easily concealable option for everyday carry.
Physical Characteristics
From a physical perspective, the LC9 embodies the essence of a subcompact. It boasts a trim profile designed for discreet concealment. The frame is typically constructed from a durable polymer, contributing to its overall lightweight nature. The slide is usually crafted from alloy steel, enhancing durability and providing a contrasting aesthetic to the polymer frame. The barrel length, optimized for a balance of concealability and ballistic performance, contributes to its compact nature. The magazine capacity, a critical factor in self-defense scenarios, is designed to offer a sufficient number of rounds while still maintaining the pistol’s slim profile.
Operating System and Features
Underneath the hood, the LC9 utilizes a double-action (DA) trigger system. This mechanism requires a longer, heavier trigger pull to both cock and release the firing pin with each shot. This design was intended to provide an extra layer of safety, making the pistol more resistant to accidental discharges. Additional safety features, like a manual safety lever (depending on the specific model), as well as a magazine disconnect (again, depending on model), provide additional peace of mind for the user. The loaded chamber indicator (an external feature that allows for a visual or tactile verification of a loaded chamber) further enhances safe handling.
Summary of LC9
In summary, the Ruger LC9 presents a compelling package. It is a compact, concealable, and easily manageable pistol chambered in a popular defensive caliber.
Overview of the Ruger LC9s
The Evolution
The Ruger LC9s represents an evolution of the LC9, reflecting the ongoing pursuit of improvement and refinement within the firearms industry. While retaining the core essence of the LC9 – its focus on concealed carry and its subcompact design – the LC9s introduces significant changes aimed at enhancing the shooting experience and performance.
Physical Characteristics of LC9s
From a physical standpoint, the LC9s shares many similarities with its predecessor. The overall size and weight are very close to the LC9, preserving the concealability that made the original so popular. The frame material, typically high-strength polymer, is designed for lightweight performance, which is an advantage for all-day carry. The slide construction, still utilizing alloy steel, provides the necessary durability and wear resistance. The barrel length remains the same, thus preserving the balance between compactness and ballistics. The magazine capacity remains consistent with the LC9, providing a respectable number of rounds for self-defense.
Operating System and Features
The most significant difference between the LC9 and the LC9s lies in its trigger mechanism. The LC9s employs a striker-fired system, a departure from the double-action trigger of the original. The striker-fired system offers a lighter, crisper trigger pull compared to the LC9. This difference in trigger feel makes the LC9s a popular choice amongst shooters. The LC9s often retains the manual safety lever and magazine disconnect features (model dependent). The loaded chamber indicator is typically retained as well.
Summary of LC9s
In essence, the Ruger LC9s takes the best aspects of the original LC9 and refines them. It offers a more streamlined shooting experience and improved accuracy potential thanks to its enhanced trigger.
Detailed Comparison: Key Differences and Similarities
Trigger Mechanism: LC9 vs. LC9s
Let’s dive deep into the specifics and compare the Ruger LC9 and LC9s in a head-to-head manner. This detailed breakdown will highlight the key differences and similarities that will ultimately influence your decision.
The trigger mechanism is arguably the most important single difference. The original Ruger LC9 featured a double-action (DA) trigger. This system operates by the trigger’s action both cocking the firing pin and then releasing it. The result is a long, heavier trigger pull with a distinct “stacking” effect – the trigger pull becomes progressively heavier as it’s pulled. This is the deliberate design choice intended for added safety. The longer, heavier pull is meant to reduce the likelihood of accidental discharges. For some shooters, this DA trigger can be a hurdle to accuracy. The long pull can be tricky to manage, and the required force can lead to unintentional movement during the shot. The reset on the LC9 is also longer, meaning you need to release the trigger nearly all the way forward before it’s ready to fire again.
The Ruger LC9s, on the other hand, uses a striker-fired system. This mechanism typically involves a shorter, lighter trigger pull with a more consistent feel throughout. The trigger on the LC9s generally provides a smoother, cleaner break. The reset is often shorter than on the LC9, enabling faster follow-up shots. The striker-fired trigger offers a potentially superior shooting experience for many shooters. The shorter travel and lighter pull make it easier to achieve accurate shot placement, particularly at longer ranges. The crispness of the trigger encourages consistent shooting habits.
The choice here largely depends on personal preference and shooting experience. Those comfortable with a double-action trigger or desiring the added safety of a long, deliberate pull may favor the LC9. Those who prioritize a lighter, more responsive trigger and a cleaner break are likely to be better suited for the LC9s.
Trigger Pull Comparison
The trigger pull weight is a directly measurable aspect of the trigger. The Ruger LC9 typically exhibits a trigger pull weight in the range of seven to nine pounds. This measurement reflects the force needed to fully depress the trigger and fire the gun. The LC9s, with its striker-fired mechanism, typically features a trigger pull weight in the range of five to six pounds. This difference of a few pounds can be significant in the realm of shooting. It can make the gun easier and more comfortable to shoot and increase accuracy.
Feel and Ergonomics: Handling the Pistols
Both the LC9 and the LC9s are designed for comfortable carry. The grip size is similar on both models, designed to be smaller for concealed carry. This smaller grip can present a challenge for shooters with larger hands. The polymer frames often have a slightly textured finish, intended to enhance grip security, but there can be considerable variation in texture across different generations and models.
The feel in the hand can be a crucial factor in your shooting experience. In this department, preference can be a deciding factor. Some shooters might find the grip on one model or the other feels more comfortable in their hands, or prefer the feel of the trigger or location of controls. It’s highly recommended to handle and, if possible, shoot both pistols to assess their ergonomics before making a purchase.
Sights: Targeting the Difference
The sights on both the LC9 and LC9s are usually basic. They are typically the traditional, three-dot arrangement, common for pistols in this class. The sights are designed for basic target acquisition. The simple sight picture makes them easier to use in high-stress situations, but it can be a limiting factor for some shooters. The LC9 and LC9s may come with sights made of either steel or polymer, depending on the specific version. The sights are usually dovetailed into the slide, which makes them easy to replace or upgrade, if desired.
Concealed Carry Considerations
Both pistols excel as concealed carry options. Their relatively small size and lightweight construction make them easy to conceal under various types of clothing. The slim profile of the LC9 and LC9s allows for comfortable concealment, particularly when carried inside the waistband (IWB) or in an ankle holster. The choice between the two, in terms of concealability, is minimal. They share nearly identical dimensions. The final decision of which pistol to carry often comes down to personal preferences, and to some extent, holster selection.
Performance: Accuracy, Reliability, and Recoil
The two guns are very similar in performance. Accuracy is important, but in this class of pistol, it is not a primary factor in determining what is the best choice. The LC9 and LC9s, with their shorter barrels, typically offer effective accuracy out to self-defense distances (typically 10-25 yards). The trigger is usually what dictates accuracy. The crisp trigger of the LC9s can help with accuracy.
Reliability is a strong suit of both models. Ruger has a reputation for robust designs. The LC9 and LC9s are generally known for reliable performance, but like all firearms, proper maintenance and care are essential.
Recoil characteristics are another area where the pistols are very similar. The relatively lightweight nature of both pistols, combined with the 9mm chambering, results in noticeable recoil, especially for new shooters. Proper grip and stance are important to manage recoil effectively and ensure rapid follow-up shots.
Price and Availability: Cost and Convenience
The Ruger LC9 and LC9s are generally considered budget-friendly options, making them accessible to a broad range of buyers. The price of the LC9 is often slightly lower than that of the LC9s, reflecting its older design and potentially simpler manufacturing process. The availability of both models is generally good, though specific models and features can vary depending on the dealer and location. Used models of both pistols are often found at competitive prices. It’s always advisable to compare prices from multiple sources to find the best deals.
Pros and Cons Compared
Side-by-Side Analysis
| Feature | Ruger LC9 | Ruger LC9s |
|—————–|———————————————|———————————————|
| Trigger | Double-Action (DA), heavier pull | Striker-Fired, lighter, crisper pull |
| Trigger Pull Weight | 7-9 lbs | 5-6 lbs |
| Accuracy | Generally adequate, can be more difficult | Generally better due to trigger |
| Concealability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Reliability | Very Good | Very Good |
| Price | Usually slightly less expensive | Usually slightly more expensive |
| Safety Features | Manual safety (sometimes), Magazine Disconnect | Manual safety (sometimes), Magazine Disconnect |
Which Pistol Is Right for You? (Conclusion)
Making the Decision
Choosing between the Ruger LC9 and the LC9s is a matter of balancing priorities. The LC9 remains a solid choice for those who value the added safety of a double-action trigger or simply prefer the feel. It’s a reliable, affordable option that gets the job done. It may be a better choice for shooters who prefer a deliberate trigger pull.
The LC9s, with its striker-fired trigger, represents a significant evolution. The lighter, crisper trigger pull makes the LC9s easier to shoot accurately. If you prioritize a more refined shooting experience, the LC9s is the better option. The improved trigger and ease of use may make it a better choice for both new and experienced shooters.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to handle and, if possible, shoot both pistols at a gun store. Pay close attention to the feel of the trigger, the grip, and the overall ergonomics. Consider your experience level, your comfort with different trigger mechanisms, and your intended use. By carefully weighing these factors, you can select the Ruger LC9 or LC9s that is the perfect fit for your needs.
Call to Action
Share Your Thoughts
We hope this comparison has provided you with the insights you need to make an informed decision. If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences with either pistol, please leave a comment below. We value your feedback and are eager to hear from you. Check out our other articles on concealed carry and firearm selection for more helpful information.
Additional Considerations
Accessories and Customization
While both the LC9 and LC9s are designed for practicality, the options for accessories exist. The LC9 and LC9s are available with aftermarket sights, allowing for improved target acquisition. Custom holsters are also available. Considering the popularity of the Ruger LC9 and LC9s, aftermarket support is generally good. The availability of accessories is easy to find online or at your local gun shop.
Safety Reminder
Remember to always prioritize safe gun handling practices.
