The new Ruger LCP MAX changes the game in the high-capacity micro-pistol market!
Ever since the Sig P365 came out in 2018, the high-capacity micro 9mm has taken the concealed carry pistol market by storm. As a result, multiple manufacturers have created their version of a micro 9mm that will hold 10 rounds or more. Gun owners have all benefited from these innovations in the 9mm market.
Meanwhile, the .380 has been stuck in the low-capacity single-stack world over the past several years. It seems to have been forgotten amid the 9mm craze . Everyone has been waiting for the same types of high-capacity innovations to be applied to .380 pistols.
Finally, Ruger implemented these highly anticipated innovations to their immensely popular LCP line of .380 pistols. They call it the LCP MAX, and it is the first high-capacity micro .380 pistol in the market. But that’s not all, Ruger has also made several other key improvements to the LCP MAX that truly make it a “game-changer.”
Gun Specs
Chambered in .380 Auto, the Ruger LCP MAX fits 10+1 rounds into the same footprint as the LCP II. In fact, I could not tell any difference in pocket carrying the LCP MAX vs. the LCP II, even with the slightly wider grip and four extra rounds. It still measures less than 1 inch wide and weighs in at under 11 ounces. If fact, the LCP MAX is still significantly smaller and lighter than every high-capacity micro-compact 9mm pistol available today. Furthermore, you can really tell the difference in size when viewing them side by side. While pocket carrying a micro-compact 9mm pistol is possible, it is a joy with the LCP MAX.
Magazine
Offering more than just capacity, the LCP MAX pistol’s double stack magazine feed lips are optimized to reliably feed the wide variety of modern .380 Auto ammunition available. The flush-fit, 10-round magazine feels identical to the LCP II magazine (with its extended floorplate installed) while accommodating an additional 4 rounds of ammunition.
If you want even more capacity, Ruger offers a 12-round accessory magazine slightly extends the grip length while doubling the 6-round capacity of the original LCP and LCPII. Most shooters obtain a full firing grip with the included finger grip extension floorplate and the accessory 12-round magazine. (Note: The author was able to get all three fingers on the grip with the 10 round magazine.)
Sights
Addressing a main complaint with most pocket pistols, the LCP MAX is fitted with a tritium front sight with white outline that is quick to acquire and aligns easily with the generous u-notch rear sight. A square face on the rear sight also aids in one-handed cocking and the steel, drift-adjustable sights make accurate shots much easier than the LCP II.
Grip & Frame
The medium-textured grip frame provides easy reach to the Secure Action trigger that is well known for its short, crisp trigger pull and inner trigger safety. Pronounced cocking ears and deep functional slide serrations ensure easy manipulation of the pistol. Every corner and edge on the LCP MAX slide and frame have been softened for comfortable carry and the magazine release is reversible to fit all shooters. The Ruger LCP MAX ships with one 10-round magazine, a finger grip extension floorplate, a pocket holster, and a magazine loader.
Range Time
Now it was time to see how all of these innovations translate to “shootability” on the range. The first thing I noticed is that the LCP MAX feels much better in the hand due to the ever so slight increase in the the width of the grip. When you combine that with what Ruger calls a recoil-reducing cam, the LCP MAX is much more comfortable to shoot than the prior LCP and LCPII variants. Both of the prior models were known to be quite “snappy” to shoot. However, the LCP MAX is truly a pleasure to shoot.
The next thing that really stood out while shooting the LCP MAX is the dramatic improvement of the sights. Most .380 “mouse guns” are known for how poor their sights are, if they even have any. The LCP MAX’s tritium front sight and u-notch rear sight were easy to see and quick to line up on the target. The improved sights, wider grip and lower recoil impulse all combine to help the average shooter enjoy more accuracy.
Because it’s a pocket pistol and .380 ammo is scarce, I did group testing using a rest at 7 yards, and fired two, three-shot groups instead of the usual five. It was a warm summer day with temperatures in the mid-80’s and calm wind. Results were good, particularly for such a small handgun.
Hornady Black 90gr HP/XTP
First, I tested the Hornady Black 90 grain hollow point XTP ammo. This round produced an excellent 1.55 inch average group. I’ve long been a fan of the XTP bullet for self defense purposes and accuracy, and it certainly didn’t disappoint in the LCP MAX.
Ammo Inc. 90gr JHP
Next up was the the Ammo Inc. 90-grain jacketed hollow point ammo. It produced the largest average group size at 1.88 inches, but was still a respectable group. I wouldn’t have any concerns carrying this ammo for self defense purposes.
Precision One 90gr HP/XTP
Last but certainly not least was the Precision One 90-grain hollow point XTP ammo. This round produced the best average group size at 1.53 inches. It also produced the smallest single group at 0.80 inches.
If you’re looking for a high-capacity micro .380 pistol that is pleasant to shoot, the Ruger LCP MAX is an excellent choice. It’s surprisingly accurate for it’s size, and has many features that you will appreciate. For more information, visit Ruger.com or call (336) 949-5200.
Factory Specifications
Caliber: .380 Auto
Capacity: 10+1 rounds flush fit, 12+1 extended (not included)
Barrel Length: 2.80 inches
Overall Length: 5.17 inches
Width: .81 inches
Height: 4.12 inches
Weight: 10.6 ounces
Sights: tritium with white outline front sight, black u-notch rear sight
MSRP: $449 (street about $380)
Performance
| Ammunition | Average Group Size (3 shots, 7 yards) |
| Hornady Black 90gr HP/XTP | 1.55″ |
| Ammo Inc. 90gr JHP | 1.88″ |
| Precision One 90gr HP/XTP | 1.53″ |
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