Ruger LCP Vs LCP II

Specification Comparison and Reviews

Ruger LCP.
Ruger LCP
Guns.com logo - ballachy

Guns.com

From $ 200

V S

Ruger LCP II.
Ruger LCP II
Guns.com logo - ballachy

Guns.com

From $ 299

In the world of guns, there is a wide range of different types for every use and budget. The Ruger LCP II has been designed to be a high-quality gun that will last you a long time without breaking the bank. This article will compare the two models Ruger lcp vs lcp II in detail so you can make an informed decision about which one suits your needs best.

Table of Contents

To do this, we’ll go over some of the most important differences between these two pistols as well as what makes each model unique from its counterpart. We’ll also look at some accessories that are compatible with both models and which might be worth considering if you end up buying one or both. Let’s get started by looking at the two models side by side.

Features of Ruger LCP Vs LCP II

Grips

The Ruger LCP II is constructed of black nylon with textured finger grooves which make it easy to maintain your grip despite sweaty palms. The LCP II also includes a lanyard hole for attaching the pistol to the wrist, belt, or another object.

Grip of Ruger LCP

The grip length of Ruger LCP is very short, which makes it ideal for shooters with small hands. However, the frame of this model is made out of aluminum alloy instead, so if you’re looking to hold onto your gun as tight as possible then the LCP II might be a better choice. The short grip is not good for normal hands. However, Ruger LCP II has a longer grip for normal hands. I’m able to get my full middle finger on the Ruger LCP II grip, but not for Ruger LCP.

Grip of Ruger LCP II

Slide

The slide is important because it controls how fast the bullet will come out of the gun. Ruger LCP’s slides are made of metal, which is more resistant to wear and tear compared to plastic. This makes them last longer. Ruger LCP is somewhat hard to manipulate because it has a short grip. However, Ruger LCP II is very accurate because the design of its slide allows for proper manipulation by gripping with your hand so you can be sure that every shot counts.

 

The Slide locks on both these pistols are similar but not the same as they have different positions and purposes in each pistol. Ruger LCP has a slide lock on the left side, but it is designed to be pushed down with your thumb while shooting so that you can easily disengage and pull back for action shots. The Slide Lock on this model works in much the same way as its predecessors do by being located at the rear of the frame and pushed down with your thumb to disengage it.

Magazine Capacity

The Ruger LCP is capable of holding up to six plus rounds in its magazine, whereas the original model only has a maximum capacity of six. The extra bullet may not seem like it makes too much difference at first glance, but for people who are worried about self-defense then having an extra round can be crucial. Since both pistols have the same caliber, the LCP II can be used with any of Ruger’s existing magazines. The magazine capacity for Ruger LCP II is 10+ 1 which is one more than the Ruger LCP model. This gives it an advantage over its predecessor by allowing shooters to carry a couple of extra rounds in case they need them without having to settle for purchasing Ruger LCP accessories (i.e., magazines).

Aesthetics

The Ruger LCP II is slightly taller than the original model, but it’s also considerably lighter. However, both pistols are made of alloy and have rounded edges to make them comfortable for shooters with small or large hands alike. This classic design has been upgraded by making the sliding metal instead of plastic (which was very common in this type of pistol). This gives it a more solid and stylish look. Both models are very similar in aesthetics, but the Ruger LCP has metal parts while the other Ruger LCP II is constructed of black nylon with textured finger grooves to make sure that you won’t lose your grip even if your hands get sweaty.

Aesthetics of Ruger LCP Vs LCP II

Shooting Ruger LCP Vs LCP II

The Ruger LCP has a short trigger pull of around five pounds, whereas the Ruger LCP II only requires you to apply an average amount of pressure for four and a half pounds. So far these guys are pretty similar in terms of shooting because they have the same action type (single-action). However, there is one big difference that everyone has to take into consideration before purchasing one of these pistols: the Ruger LCP II has no better slide lock, whereas the Ruger LCP has an excellent slide stop. These pistols are great for home defense because they both have manual safety that prevents the gun from firing accidentally. However, this is something to consider when choosing between these models. Ruger LCP II has an additional magazine disconnect which will prevent it from shooting even if there’s a round in the chamber.

Overall Ergonomics Difference

Both Ruger LCP and LCP II are lightweight guns that can be carried around without too much trouble. They both feature a pocket clip that allows you to carry them inside your pants or shirt pockets. The main difference between these two pistols is the fact that Ruger LCP II has an improved slide lock which allows it to be used for tactical purposes. Additionally, this model is lighter than its predecessor and comes with a few other extra features like a manual safety switch, magazine disconnector, or loaded chamber indicator (which shows when there’s a round in the chamber). On the other hand, the older model has a hard slide stop that takes a little more time to disengage.

Safety

Both of these pistols don’t have any type of external safety, so it’s crucial to use them with care. This goes without saying, but the Ruger LCP II is much easier to access and shoot than the original model since it has a shorter trigger pull and a better grip for ergonomics. Since the original Ruger LCP has a hard slide stop that takes more time to disengage, you can take solace in knowing that its successor features an improved slide lock and manual safety switch.

Trigger

The trigger on the original Ruger LCP has a slight little bit of takeup that you’re then going to start feeling a smooth, hard pull from. It’s not brief; it feels more like a double-action pistol. The Ruger LCP II has a short hammer-fired trigger and, as such, it needs less time to be accessed. 

Trigger of Ruger LCP

Additionally, it doesn’t feel as short as the original model because the Ruger LCP II has an excellent grip for ergonomics. The trigger pull is also lighter which makes this pistol much more accurate than its predecessor.

Trigger of Ruger LCP II

Durability

Both of these pistols are made with alloy and have rounded edges to make them comfortable for shooters with small or large hands alike. This classic design has been upgraded by making the sliding metal instead of plastic (which was very common in this type of pistol). This one is a tough call because while Ruger LCP II features more durable materials, the original Ruger LCP has a better slide stop. It’s up to you which one is more important, but keep in mind that the older model doesn’t have any type of manual safety switch either – it only has an indicator on top of itself.

Ruggedness

The design difference between these two pistols is huge because the Ruger LCP II has a short hammer-fired trigger and an improved slide lock. It’s definitely more comfortable to shoot than the original model which makes it easier, but if you’re looking for something that will last longer then the older version might be better suited for your needs.

After Market Accessories - Ruger LCP Vs LCP II

Both of these pistols are very user-friendly which makes them great for modifications. Since the Ruger LCP II has an improved slide lock, you can choose to install a trigger job or replace it with something better without worrying about damaging your pistol. The original model also features interchangeable backstraps so that you can customize its grip even more. Here are a detailed review of Ruger LCP vs LCP II aftermarket accessories.

Holsters

The original Ruger LCP has a slightly longer grip, but it’s still very popular among holster makers. There are many right-handed and left-handed holsters that fit this model including the DeSantis Nemesis which is one of the most comfortable ones on the market. The Ruger LCP II also has a wide variety of holsters available on the market but doesn’t have a pocket clip which makes it somewhat difficult to carry. Both of these pistols are very popular among holster makers so you can choose from a wide range of options for both models.

Lasers

The Ruger LCP is a great gun for beginners who want to add laser sights. Since it doesn’t have an external safety, you can choose from many excellent options including the Crimson Trace Laserguard which fits right over the trigger guard and features Instinctive Activation technology that automatically activates when holding this pistol in your hand. As for the Ruger LCP II, you can also add lasers to it since this model doesn’t have external safety. Crimson Trace and Viridian are two of the most popular brands that make laser sights for these pistols. They both feature Instinctive Activation technology which saves time and battery life when using your pistol’s laser sight in stressful situations.

Grips

There are many grips available on the market that fit this gun. The Ruger LCP II has an excellent grip for ergonomics which makes it easier to hold and shoot compared to its predecessor. The two models both feature interchangeable backstraps so you can customize their grip to your liking.

Magazine Loader

It’s recommended to use an aftermarket magazine loader when shooting a Ruger LCP and LCP II gun. The manufacturer doesn’t provide one with your purchase so you can choose from several options including the Tuff Quickloader which has an extended baseplate and features a reliable thumb-activated mechanism for easy loading without damaging your magazines.

Cleaning Kit

There are many cleaning kits available on the market for this model. The original model has a smooth trigger and it’s harder to clean compared to the Ruger LCP II. If you want an easier time cleaning your pistol, choose from one of many excellent options available for this gun including Pachmayr’s All-Inclusive Cleaning Kit which comes with 22 pieces that have been carefully selected for firearm care.

FAQs

Important Note:

Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.

There are several options available on the market that fit these guns such as Crimson Trace lasers sights for both versions. You can also find holster options, grips, magazine loaders, and cleaning kits for both models.

Important Note:

Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.

 There are many options on the market including Ruger LCP II Crimson Trace Laserguard, Taurus Curve, and P238 Elite. The original version has many models including Ruger LCP LaserMax Centerfire, Taurus TCP, and SIG P238.

Important Note:

Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.

The original model holds six and the new version has a seven-round capacity.

Important Note:

Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.

The main difference between these two models lies in their size and weight. Ruger LCP is a smaller, lightweight pistol that features a smooth trigger and doesn’t have an external safety. The LC380 has a longer grip which makes it easier to hold compared to its predecessor.

Important Note:

Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.

 It’s recommended to use a Kydex or nylon holster when carrying a Ruger LCP. You can choose from many great options including the DeSantis Nemesis which is one of the most popular holsters for this model on the market today.

Conclusion

Both of these pistols are great for beginners and pros alike because they’re easy to use, reliable, accurate, durable, ergonomic, and customizable with aftermarket accessories. They both have a smooth trigger and don’t come with external safety. The Ruger LCP II is more accurate thanks to its better grip, lighter trigger pull, and improved slide lock while the original model has interchangeable backstraps for customizing your grip even further. Hope this blog post will help you to select the best Ruger LCP vs LCP II for your purpose.

Our Research Process

Our curated list of products has been provided to you by our experienced team of researchers and writers at Ballachy who have tested and scrutinized product recommendations on the market. Our experience in the field, in-depth research and hands-on approach has allowed us to objectively analyse products for years and continuously providing value for buyers who are looking to get accurate and unbiased reviews. If you would like to know more about our research methods, we welcome you to visit our page here detailing how our recommendations are done. Furthermore, as we are always looking keep our guides updated and welcome any feedback from readers regarding different experiences or recommendations to adjust our list. If you consider that we have missed on some important recommendations, please let us know here, so we can add-on any valuable feedback.

Author Profile

Gabriel TackettGabriel Tackett
Gabriel Tackett is an experienced shooter and hunter for over 15 years with a degree in Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) officer for 10 years And his passion lies in teaching others how to safely enjoy the hobby by recommending the best practices & products in the gun industry.