Ruger LCP II Review

So you have an awesome daily carry gun, but it’s full-sized. Usually that isn’t detrimental, but there are times you require deeper concealment or the ability to carry in a non-permissive environment. Or maybe you just need a backup gun due to the location you know you’re visiting or personal preferences. Either way, it’s a good idea to have a reliable little pocket pistol available, and that’s where the Ruger LCP II comes in. We put this gun through its paces at the range, as a concealed carry gun, and even as a boot gun—and one time we used it on a rattlesnake. Here’s what we found out about this popular pistol.

Ruger LCP 2

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Ruger LCP II Background

The 380 ACP chambered Ruger LCP II is the company’s improved version of the original LCP. That first LCP hit the market in 2008 and the second generation came out in 2016. The LCP II is labeled as a “light compact pistol” by Ruger and offers dimensions that most shooters would consider sub- or micro-compact. It’s made as a backup gun or pocket pistol and is favored by a lot of gun owners who prefer the 380 ACP for whatever reason.

This is a pistol that’s a definite improvement over its predecessor. The Ruger LCP II has it all from better ergonomics to improved grip texture and a trigger that’s miles superior to the old version. It is small which can create some difficulties for grip and accuracy but its size is by design—basically, if you need a tiny gun you can conceal fast and easily, this is your gun.

There are a decent number of holsters on the market for this gun that span the range of designs from pocket holsters to IWB (inside waistband) styles. Aftermarket accessories are rather few and far between, but you’re also not likely to need to change much on this gun. It’s definitely not the ideal option for first-time shooters but does neatly fulfill the niche of backup gun (BUG). And if you’d like to carry it in your boot or just on your ankle, you can.

Other Models and Colors

Ruger LCP II 22LR

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Ruger LCP2 380

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Features of the Ruger LCP II

As a pocket pistol this isn’t a gun that’s chock-full of extra features, because doing that would add bulk and negate its value as a truly small gun. It does have useful features, including:

1 Comfortable Grip

Aggressive but comfortable grip texture for a solid grip during use.

2 Front and Rear Serrations

Make racking the slide easier.

3 Integral sights

Remain in place regardless of bumps and scrapes.

4 Rounded Trigger Guard

For comfort and reduced snagging risk.

5 Safety Blade Trigger

As well as internal safeties.

6 Extension on Magazine

To reduce dangling pinky and improve grip.

Ruger LCP II—Our Take

As pocket pistols go, the Ruger LCP II is one of the better designs. It’s vastly better than the first LCP not just ergonomically but for accuracy. The LCP II makes a reliable backup gun that can be readily concealed using whatever method you want. It’s small enough that you’re not likely to get a full firing grip to the extent you might prefer when drawing it, but you can come close. This really is a gun meant for specific applications and that means it needs to be reviewed and considered from that standpoint rather than by comparing it to bigger models.

Shootability

The key to shootability with the Ruger LCP II is practice. Unless you’re already quite familiar with micros, you’re going to have an adjustment period getting used to how small it is. Your pinkie will dangle and your two-handed firing grip is going to overlap a lot more than it does on larger guns. That said, as a smaller pistol this gun works well. It has a nice fit and feel for its size and is designed in such a way that it isn’t difficult to master a firm grip during live fire.

Accuracy

Overall, this is an accurate gun for its purpose. The LCP II is meant to be the gun you’re going for at close ranges and it does that just fine. If you’re five yards or closer, you can deliver accurate shots. 10 yards and out accuracy degrades, but this isn’t meant to be a longer-distance gun at all. Judging the gun within the category of pocket pistols it is more accurate than many similar models.

Ergonomics

This is an extremely narrow gun with a grip designed for pocket carry, meaning it’s tiny. That doesn’t leave much room for your hands, let alone all your fingers. However, its well-designed for the size and has a nice, simple shape and good texture. Ruger took the time to add a pinkie rest to the magazine which helps your grip without adding bulk across the gun’s entire grip. It’s a relatively ergonomically made pistol that you end up liking even more if you try holding an original LCP first. Sometimes, comparison and contrast helps quite a bit with perspective.

Value

The Ruger LCP II offers exceptional value for a reliable sub-compact. It’s made well and according to exacting specifications, which is something Ruger has gained a good reputation for, and it’s durable enough to withstand regular use. You might be better served by finding a used model to reduce the price even more, but even the brand new LCP II in 380 ACP has good value.

Pros and Cons

Report Card
Reliabiltiy	The gun hasn’t had any failures regardless of type of ammo, so I’d say it’s reliable. That includes a few hundred rounds of target ammo and a wide variety of defensive loads.	A+
Shootability	I can’t in good conscience say this is a highly shootable gun in any context. It does get easier with consistent practice, but pocket pistols like this are a challenge for most gun owners. That doesn’t make it a bad gun, just one that’s a bit harder to master.	B-
Accuracy	You get reliable accuracy out of the LCP II at close ranges. That goes for slow, deliberate shots and rapid-fire. Venture beyond five yards and groups broaden pretty quickly. Keep this in mind when it comes to the rapid-fire you’re likely to do in a defensive situation. Of course, this is why we train, because shooting is a perishable skill and it’s important to stay on top of things.	B+
Ergonomics	This gun offers decent ergonomics that boost it above the feel of many similar-sized models. If I had to choose a pocket pistol from the numerous models I’ve run over the years, the LCP II would be high on the list. Smaller hands will make it a bit more comfortable to shoot, at least when it comes to frame size.	B+
Value	You get solid value from the LCP II. It’s of high enough quality it should offer fantastic longevity and it’s a great option for gun owners who need guns they can conceal easily. That makes it great for everything from a fast run to the corner store or for use as a regular backup gun.	A+

Ruger LCP 2

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Our Grade

B+

Reviewed by Kat Ainsworth-Stevens

Reader’s Grade

A

Based on 3 Reviews

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