RUGER LCR - 38 SPL - 1.875" - 5 RD
RugerWrite a Review
Ruger
RUGER LCR - 38 SPL - 1.875" - 5 RD
The Ruger LCR .38 Special is a purpose-built concealed carry revolver that combines aerospace-grade materials, innovative fire control engineering, and a compact 1.875" barrel into one of the most trusted lightweight revolvers on the market today.
- Monolithic frame crafted from aerospace-grade 7000 series aluminum for maximum strength and minimal weight
- Patented friction-reducing cam delivers a smooth, non-stacking double-action trigger pull
- Polymer fire control housing reduces overall weight and helps absorb felt recoil
- Extensively fluted stainless steel cylinder with PVD finish for long-lasting durability
- Hogue Tamer Monogrip cushions recoil and provides a secure, ergonomic hold
- Rated for .38 Special +P ammunition, offering enhanced defensive performance
Who This Is For
The Ruger LCR .38 Special is ideal for concealed carry permit holders, everyday carriers, and home defenders who want a reliable, low-maintenance revolver that is easy to draw, simple to operate, and comfortable to shoot. Its lightweight aluminum frame and snag-free profile make it an excellent choice for pocket carry, ankle holsters, or inside-the-waistband rigs — and it's equally well-suited for new shooters looking for a straightforward defensive firearm without complicated manual safeties.
Specifications
| Caliber | .38 Special +P |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 1.875" |
| Overall Length | 6.50" |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 13.5 oz |
| Frame Material | Aerospace-Grade 7000 Series Aluminum |
| Cylinder Material | High-Strength Stainless Steel |
| Cylinder Finish | PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) |
| Frame Finish | Matte Black |
| Action | Double-Action Only (DAO) |
| Sights | Pinned Ramp Front / U-Notch Integral Rear |
| Grip | Hogue Tamer Monogrip |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Ruger LCR .38 Special fire +P ammunition safely?
Yes. The Ruger LCR .38 Special is specifically rated for .38 Special +P ammunition, which operates at higher pressures than standard .38 Special loads. This makes it well-suited for modern defensive hollow-point ammunition such as Federal HST, Speer Gold Dot, or Hornady Critical Defense +P loads. While +P ammo is perfectly safe to use, extended practice sessions with +P rounds will cause more wear over time, so many shooters use standard .38 Special for range training and reserve +P loads for carry.
How does the Ruger LCR compare to other compact revolvers for concealed carry?
The Ruger LCR stands out from traditional J-frame style revolvers primarily through its patented friction-reducing cam system, which produces a notably smoother and more consistent trigger pull than many competitors. Its polymer fire control housing also helps reduce total weight and felt recoil. At roughly 13.5 ounces unloaded, it is among the lightest .38 Special revolvers available, and the Hogue Tamer Monogrip provides superior recoil management compared to hard rubber or wood grips found on comparable snub-nose revolvers.
What holsters and accessories are compatible with the Ruger LCR 1.875"?
The Ruger LCR has a large aftermarket support ecosystem. It is compatible with holsters designed for the LCR platform from major manufacturers including Galco, DeSantis, CrossBreed, Alien Gear, and Safariland, available in IWB, OWB, pocket, and ankle configurations. Speed loaders from HKS (Model 36-A) and Safariland Comp I are popular choices, as are speed strips for discreet reloading. Aftermarket grip options from Pachmayr, VZ Grips, and others are also widely available for customization.
- Caliber:
- 38 SPL
- Capacity:
- 5 RD
- Night Sights:
- No
- Barrel Length:
- 1.875"
- Action Type:
- Revolver
- Optics Ready:
- No
- Frame Material:
- Steel
- Slide Color:
- Black
- Frame Color:
- Black