Lightweight revolvers are not always snub-nosed with short stocks. The Ruger LCRx weighs 15.7 ounces and sports a 3-inch barrel and hand-filling stocks. As such, it offers the simplicity and reliability of a revolver in a larger package. Compared to its snub-nosed little brothers, the LCRx’s increase in dimensions does not detract from its concealability. Moreover, its dimensions make it easier to shoot. So, if you long for the advantages of a revolver but are not too keen on snubbies, the LCRx may the larger, lightweight revolver you will carry all day.
The LCRx can hold five rounds of .38 Special +P. Today’s ammunition is very good, and .38 Special +P packs a punch. As for whether or not “five to stay alive” is enough, logical, rational arguments about this may ensue in the comments below.
You can look at a picture of the LCRx and know it’s no snubby. But how much beyond a snubby is it? Well, the LCRx measures 7.5 inches overall and is 5.8 inches high. Compare its 3-inch barrel and full-sized stocks to some other revolvers you know, and you will come up with something between a snubby and a full-sized revolver. The gun is big enough to aid in manipulation and grip and to provide a bit more barrel-to-bullet contact. Because it is bigger, pocket and ankle carry are out. This is a waistband gun.
When attached to a real gun belt on the waistband, the gun’s 15.7 ounces are a dream to carry. Not only does the light weight work with you and make all-day carry super comfortable, but the gun’s relatively flat design also means that most of the gun’s mass is pressed up against you. This also translates to comfort as well as concealability. As such, I prefer to go outside the waistband when choosing holsters. Galco’s Combat Master belt-slide holster (a custom order) or Vega’s FD1 belt-slide holster match up well to the Ruger LCRx and offer superlative concealability (mainly through a perfect forward cant and perfect retention friction) and access to the gun when you need it.
Shooting the LCRx proves the genius of its Hogue Tamer grip. Because the gun is so light, you have to contend with the physics of shooting .38s, both standard and +P rounds. In a snubby, it can be a painful exercise. With the LCRx, recoil is a hefty push into your hand and arm, but it is very manageable. There is no hard snap or pain thanks to the grip. You feel recoil. It’s real, and it’s there, but you can get back on target quickly and fire accurately. A black, blade, adjustable rear sight works well with a pinned, white, easy-to-see ramp front sight.
The Ruger LCRx retails for $579. Learn more at Ruger.com, and see if you want to carry this larger, lightweight revolver.
