JustinJ
Member
I recently purchased a new Ruger LC9 for $330 from my local gun shop. The gun came with one mag with pinky extension, two take down tools, gun lock and cloth case. I already owned a Keltek PF9 which is not a bad gun except that it is finicky with certain ammo and the barrel is prone to corrosion if not meticulously maintained. I've generally carried my PF9 as a pocket gun when attire does not allow for my HK P2000SK in .357 sig. The LC9 does seem to be slightly longer and taller than the PF9 but i don't have measurements in front of me. The LC9 looks and feels to be of high quality, much more so than the PF9, but function is my main concern. There are three gripes I have with the LC9. First, it requires a tool to break down. It comes with two hex shapped little punch like tools although one could easily use a small allen wrench in a pinch. I certainly prefer the PF9s method of takedown. One only needs a shell case, screw driver, knife or even finger nail to remove the take down pin. Second, I don't like that it can not fire without a magazine inserted. This isn't a huge deal but does offer a small tactical disadvantage. The third and biggest complaint I have is the trigger. It is long and heavy and takes a real getting used to. The PF9's aint great but definitely better. I found with the LC9 that i shoot better by using a part of my finger closer to the base to get more leverage. I'm also not a huge fan of the overly pronounced load indicator and its bright red color. I think if somebody cant keep track of wether or not their firearm is chambered they shouldnt carry one. Plus i dont like the fact that the gun advertises to an adversary if its unloaded. The LC9 does also include a manual safety lever which is a nice feature although i personally wont carry with it engaged.
The LC9 ran flawlessly at the range with 115 and/or 124 grain FMJs from speer, winchester, blazer and federal. The only hollow points i tried were Gold Dots 124 grain. They also fed without incident. Once i got the hang of the trigger groups started to really tighten up. Center mass hits were consistenly made at even 25 yards. I did have to adjust the rear sight slightly which was easy as it is secured with an allen screw. After loosening the screw i had to only tap the rear sight a few times with the plastic handle of a screw driver to get them drifted for proper alignment. Another advantage of the LC9 over the PF9 is interchangeable sights so one can install night sights although i havent seen any available yet. All in all I am happy with the gun and will probably sell my PF9.
The LC9 ran flawlessly at the range with 115 and/or 124 grain FMJs from speer, winchester, blazer and federal. The only hollow points i tried were Gold Dots 124 grain. They also fed without incident. Once i got the hang of the trigger groups started to really tighten up. Center mass hits were consistenly made at even 25 yards. I did have to adjust the rear sight slightly which was easy as it is secured with an allen screw. After loosening the screw i had to only tap the rear sight a few times with the plastic handle of a screw driver to get them drifted for proper alignment. Another advantage of the LC9 over the PF9 is interchangeable sights so one can install night sights although i havent seen any available yet. All in all I am happy with the gun and will probably sell my PF9.