CDW:
I have an LC9 and love it. I don't care about the "additions" that cause you concern, I do care that every time I pull the trigger I know the pistol will fire, and it's more than self defense accurate.
The internal lock, manual safety, magazine safety and loaded chamber indicator of my LC9 might actually be a plus to some folks who care about such things, but I don't. The presence of these unnecessary items on my LC9 is not a plus for me, but nor are they deal breakers.
I never use the "internal lock", I'm a lefty, but wouldn't use the external lock if their were one on on both sides, the magazine safety is simply no problem for me, and surprisingly I actually like the funky loaded chamber indicator.
I have only two requirements for MY cc choice..
1. Reliability - And I've NEVER had an unreliable Ruger firearm. Period.
2. Self defense range accuracy. - My LC9 is actually MORE than self defense range accurate...
That's it..
I'm sure the addition of these safety gizmo's that annoy you were done to make the LC9 legal in some of the states that require such crap.. I don't fault Ruger for wanting the largest market available for their guns.. In this economy it's smart business.
There are actually some gun-buying folks who SEEK such things as the external safety, loaded chamber indicator, etc... Generally I would suggest it's that segment of the gun buying public who are not really "gun nuts" (such as I am, and I would suggest you are also), are NOT experienced with guns, and such things make them feel "safer"...
So, Ruger is targeting the largest market and that's smart business.
I believe those of us who have been "into" firearms for a long time (half a century in my case) recognize these unnecessary (in our opinions) additions to a very nice 9MM pistol and either decide to ignore 'em, or in your case, not buy the pistol because of them.
That's what's wonderful about America.. You can express your appreciation, or dissatisfaction with these unnecessary additions to the otherwise fine LC9 with your pocketbook..
I voted.... I bought my LC9 and it's good enough that it has replaced my previous 9MM carry pistol (HK P2000sk) for iwb carry..
Reliability ~ accurate...
No offense to you sir.. Not confrontin', just conversin'.
Best Wishes,
Jesse