Ruger LCR 9mm
Model: 5456
Ruger LCR 9mm
Model: 5456
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The Ruger LCR in 9mm is a five-shot, double-action-only snub revolver for people who want their revolver to share ammunition with their pistol. It weighs 17.2 oz with a 1.87" barrel and ships with three full moon clips that load the cylinder in one motion and pull the empties out together. Its rivals are the steel Smith & Wesson 940 and the other LCR chamberings.
The frame is 400-series stainless steel with a polymer fire control housing, and the fluted stainless cylinder has a PVD finish. The Ruger LCR .38 Special uses an aluminum frame, weighs 3.7 oz less and costs $120 less, but it needs .38 Special rather than your pistol's 9mm. The Smith & Wesson Model 940-3 is the all-steel J-frame answer in 9mm: 5.8 oz heavier, a 2.17" barrel, and $20 more. The Ruger LCRx .357 costs the same, adds an exposed hammer for single-action shots, and fires magnums and .38 Special, but you give up the shared pistol ammunition.
Buy the LCR 9mm if you already carry a 9mm pistol and want a backup or deep-carry revolver that shoots the same defensive loads. Skip it if you would rather not manage moon clips: the LCR .38 Special is lighter and loads loose rounds.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- Ruger's friction-reducing cam gives a smooth, non-stacking double-action pull, so the effort stays even through the stroke.
- The moon clips double as speed loaders and help eject spent cases, so a reload is a single motion.
- The Hogue Tamer Monogrip softens recoil, and the grip peg lets you fit other LCR grip styles if you want a smaller or longer grip.
- The system depends on moon clips. You need spares for practice, and a bent clip can bind the cylinder.
- Double-action only means no cocked-hammer shot for careful aim at distance, unlike the LCRx.
- The U-notch rear sight is part of the frame and cannot be adjusted or replaced, so a load that hits off the point of aim means changing loads or the front sight height.
Category Rankings
How the Ruger LCR 9mm ranks among compact 9mm Luger handguns.
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Alternatives to Consider
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the LCR 9mm need moon clips?
Plan on using them. Ruger ships three full moon clips that act as speed loaders and aid extraction, and the gun is designed around them.
Can I change the front sight?
Yes. The front is a replaceable pinned ramp, so you can install a brighter or night sight. The integral U-notch rear stays as is.
Can I put different grips on it?
Yes. The LCR uses a grip peg that accepts a variety of grip styles, so compact boot grips and longer grips both fit.
How is it different from the LCR .38 Special?
The 9mm uses a stainless steel frame and moon clips, while the .38 Special uses an aluminum frame and loose rounds or speed strips. The .38 is lighter; the 9mm shares ammunition with a 9mm carry pistol, which simplifies buying and practicing with one defensive load.
