Ruger Security-9 9mm
Model: 3810
Ruger Security-9 9mm
Model: 3810
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The Security-9 is the thinnest full-size 9mm in the category at 1.02" wide. Most full-size 9mms run 1.30-1.35" across. That 0.3" difference is immediately noticeable in an IWB holster or tucked in a nightstand drawer. The gun holds 15 rounds, weighs 23.8 oz, and runs a 4" barrel. The glass-filled nylon frame and alloy steel slide with black oxide finish are simpler materials than the polymer and nitride used on most competitors. A manual thumb safety provides a physical lockout, which some shooters prefer and others consider unnecessary.
Fifteen rounds is 2 rounds behind the 17-round standard set by the Glock G17 and most of its competitors. No optic cut, no night sights, no threaded barrel. The drift-adjustable rear sight is functional but basic. What surprises about the Security-9 is how well it runs despite the stripped-down spec sheet. Owners report reliable feeding with standard-pressure 9mm through thousands of rounds. Ruger's lifetime service policy covers all owners, not just the original purchaser. For a gun that lives on the nightstand or goes to the range monthly, the Security-9 does its job without complaint.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- At 1.02" wide, it is the slimmest full-size 9mm in the category. Most competitors run 1.30-1.35". The difference is noticeable in an IWB holster or in a small gun safe.
- Ruger's lifetime service policy covers all owners, not just the original purchaser. This matters for a gun likely to be passed between family members or bought secondhand.
- Fifteen-round capacity trails the 17-round standard set by the Glock G17, HK VP9, and most other full-size 9mms
- No optics cut. Adding a red dot requires slide milling, which undermines the gun's positioning as a straightforward, no-frills option
Category Rankings
How the Ruger Security-9 9mm ranks among full-size 9mm Luger handguns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ruger Security-9 reliable with defensive hollow point ammunition?
Owners report reliable feeding with most standard-pressure 9mm ammunition including common defensive loads like Federal HST and Speer Gold Dot. The feed ramp geometry handles hollow points well. Ruger recommends a 200-round break-in period with your chosen carry ammunition. The alloy steel barrel and slide hold up through thousands of rounds without significant wear.
What is the difference between the Security-9 and the Ruger MAX-9?
The Security-9 is a full-size gun: 4" barrel, 15 rounds, 23.8 oz, 7.24" long. The MAX-9 is a micro-compact: 3.2" barrel, 10-12 rounds, 18.4 oz, 6" long. The MAX-9 ships optic-ready. The Security-9 does not. The Security-9 is better for home defense and the range. The MAX-9 is better for concealed carry. They share Ruger's lifetime service policy but are otherwise different guns built for different purposes.
Does the manual safety slow down the draw?
It adds one step. The thumb safety must be swept down during the draw stroke before the trigger will fire. With practice, most shooters incorporate the sweep into their grip establishment and lose minimal time. Some owners remove or disable the safety after gaining experience, though this voids the Ruger warranty. If you train with the safety on, it becomes automatic. If you do not train regularly, the extra step is a real concern under stress.