Ruger .380

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I figure that Ruger probably has a deal with Kel-Tec.

A lot more people will seriously consider a Ruger branded product than a Kel-Tec. It's just a matter of name recognition and reputation. If Ruger is able to get better market penetration, and Kel-Tec gets a cut, it's a win for both.
 
I'd like to see some real world reviews before making a decision on this one. I've held off on a P3AT because of the mixed reviews and because here in Nazi Jerky permits are a PITA. I want to do it once and get it right. Some might ask why I'm concerned about a pocket pistol in a state where a carry permit is all but unobtainable. Good question. Some people have to go on business where the cops only go in two car patrols. Newark, Paterson, Trenton, and the "Oranges". Look it up. These people believe it is better to be tried by twelve than carried by six.
That being said, while Ruger products have an excellent reputation for reliability, the original P89s had teething problems. Here's hoping this one is 100% out of the gate.
 
Ruger .380

Cool.

Hmm. Kind of Kel-Tec-y looking. MSRP of $330, look for street price around, mmm, $275. Interesting, very interesting.

Man, that do look like a Kel-Tec.
 
It is CLEARLY based on the Kel-Tec P3AT, but it's not a copy, per se. Still, I'd bet on some sort of deal between Ruger & Kel-Tec having been struck.

Differences apparent from the two parts diagrams.

New extractor design.
Redesigned magazine.
Added slide lock.
Different barrel/slide configuration.
Different mainspring/mainspring retainer.

In other words, it's not just a rebadged gun, it's been redesigned. The size & weight differences are further evidence.

Be interesting to see some reviews on the gun. I must admit that I'm not impressed with the "New Ruger's" approach to creating new products, but the result may not be so bad.
 
The reliability of a ruger combined with the size of a kel-tec?

wow, that would be a winner.

I'd get one.

Same here. I own a P3AT. Would really like to sell it and get something similar but nicer build quality.
 
I like it.
I like Rugers though. Maybe I will be buying some used KT .380 cheap :)
I had a KT .380 that worked ok. See how this one shakes out.
 
I think I'd prefer Kel ec's customer service and lifetime, no hassle warranty. And, the P3AT holds two more rounds. But, I'm also a Ruger fan. I love my P11 KT, though.

Now, if they'd offer a stainless model, well, that'd be the clincher. I'll wait for the stainless Ruger. Bout time Ruger got on into the pocket pistol market, though. I'm sure going to keep an eye on this one.
 
My Keltec works just fine... Of course mine is a P32..

I won't rule out ruger though. But Keltec always will hold a place in my heart... My first gun!
 
The reliability of a ruger combined with the size of a kel-tec?

wow, that would be a winner.

I'd get one.


Yep! That's what I've been saying - I'd like to get a Kel-tec but made with better materials and quality control, and I'd be willing to give up a little bit of extra weight and a higher purchase price too. Maybe this is it.
 
I kinda wish Ruger had come out with this years ago. I would have had one instead of the P3AT.

On a more esoteric note, I've been expecting this from Ruger ever since the old man died. His views on civilian personal protection, or the lack of/negative aspects, colored Ruger's product line for decades. Under Bill, Ruger looked like a company constantly looking for that elusive government contract rather than a gun maker responsive to the wants/needs of their customers. As a result, the rest of the industry left them in the dust. I mean, let's face it, having only ONE small pocket-able self defense gun, and a revolver at that, did not breathe the air of innovation!!
I wonder if Bill Jr. has been removed from control of the company??
While I am glad that Ruger has finally decided to venture into the personal self defense pistol market, I fear it will be a case of to little to late.
Ruger should have put the ghost of the founder to rest years ago!!
 
I'd be interested in testing one at a rental range, sure. I think it's great that Ruger is no longer "scared to go in the water" as far as new products are conscerned. the last 3 yrs have shown some great gear! Now if they'll only put some iron sights on the Frontier rifle to give it true "scout rifle" qualities.....
 
It may be just what I was looking for. The looks of the Kel Tec's finish and quality make me nervous. Ruger may be able to to a better job. Any guess when it may be available???
 
If it's as reliable as every other Ruger I've owned I'll get two and sell off my other pocket pistols. Does anyone have any idea as to the release date for this gun?
 
Looks interesting. Here's how it compares with some compacts I considered. I decided to go with a Sig 239 SAS, but the Ruger looks interesting for pocket carry.

Overall length in inches
Ruger 380: 5.16
Walther PPS 9mm: 6.3
Sig 239: 6.6
G26: 6.29
G19: 6.85
HK USP Compact: 6.81

Overall height in inches
Ruger 380: 3.6
Walther PPS 9mm: 4.4
Sig 239: 5.1
G26: 4.17
G19: 5.0
HK USP Compact: 5.0

Overall width in inches
Ruger 380: .820
Walther PPS 9mm: 1.04
Sig 239: 1.2
G26: 1.18
G19: 1.18
HK USP Compact: 1.14

Weight unloaded in ounces
Ruger 380: 9.4
Walther PPS 9mm: 19.4
Sig 239: 27.5
G26: 19.75
G19: 20.99
HK USP Compact: 23.52

Weight loaded in ounces
Ruger 380: (Not given)
Walther PPS 9mm: N/A
Sig 239: 29.7
G26: 26.10
G19: 29.98
HK USP Compact: N/A

Standard magazine capacity
Ruger 380: 6
Walther PPS 9mm: 7 or 8, depending upon magazine: one of each provided
Sig 239: 8
G26: 10 rounds
G19: 15 rounds
HK USP Compact: 13 rounds

Trigger pull
Ruger 380: 8 pounds
Walther PPS 9mm: 6.1 pounds
Sig 239: DA: 10.0 pounds; SA: 4.5 pounds
G26: 5.5 pounds
G19: 5.5 pounds
HK USP Compact: N/A
 
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