.357 Magnum LCRx --- new model from Ruger

[PT7]

Ruger has recently released (2019) a new revolver in their LCRx series. It is a 3-inch .357 Magnum. I've read quite a number of Folk out there have been waiting for this barrel length as opposed to the 1.87" snubby.

I have a 3-inch LCRx in .38 Special + P caliber, and it is a perfect, lightweight CCW/SD revolver. The configuration of these two models is identical; just the caliber and weight differences. My .38 Special is 15.7 oz., and the .357 is 21.3 oz. Not at all a heavy revolver to carry in an IWB holster or a shoulder rig.

Here is a Ruger photo to check out for those who like the .357 Magnum caliber in a wheel gun. My LCRx is great to handle/shoot. I'd bet this new .357 model is a cut above.

PT7

Ruger .357 Magnum LCRx_model 5444.jpg

[Mistered]

In spite of the polymer 'fire control housing' I like it - and might have to take a look at one. I have been wanting a mod 60 Smith in 3" for some time - specifically a 60-4 in .38 Special (kind of a rare model) but they are hard to find.
Anyway regardless I am a fan of Ruger, owned many and I'll definately give this a look. The adjustable sights are a big plus as well.

[GFK]

My wife may go for it. She claims my S&W 65-5 is too heavy for her. I has often thought about getting a Ruger though.

[PT7]

My wife may go for it. She claims my S&W 65-5 is too heavy for her. I has often thought about getting a Ruger though.

S&W make really good revolvers. I had an S&W Performance Center .38 special + P, 1.87'' snubby, and thought it was top-quality.

Is your model 65 a K-frame? Probably also made in stainless steel? So I'd think the weight might be 33-35 oz. easy. That's kinda heavy for a lot of Folk. If she were interested, just a reminder that the .38 Special + P like I have is even lighter than this new .357 Magnum, unless of course she's looking at specifically the .357 caliber. I've read both models have steel cylinders. But my .38 frame is made from aluminum, and the .357 frame is stainless steel. Think those are the main weight considerations.

I'm not an ad for Ruger. But this LCRx is an excellent D/A revolver for me, and I plan to have it for a long time.
If you do check one out, let me know what you and your wife think about it. And ask me whatever questions you might have. I'll try to give you an answer, if I know.
PT7

[BigAl52]

I like it and maybe its because they are new. But the price of them seems a little steep to me. Saw them on GB for 600 plus

[markiver54]

I love my S&W's, but that does look like a sweet wheel gun. I guess it's a good thing my wife doesn't let my leash stretch too far.

[BigAl52]

The leash aint bad Mark its that choke collar its hooked to that will get ya

[markiver54]

got that right!!

[GFK]

My wife may go for it. She claims my S&W 65-5 is too heavy for her. I has often thought about getting a Ruger though.

S&W make really good revolvers. I had an S&W Performance Center .38 special + P, 1.87'' snubby, and thought it was top-quality.

Is your model 65 a K-frame? Probably also made in stainless steel? So I'd think the weight might be 33-35 oz. easy. That's kinda heavy for a lot of Folk. If she were interested, just a reminder that the .38 Special + P like I have is even lighter than this new .357 Magnum, unless of course she's looking at specifically the .357 caliber. I've read both models have steel cylinders. But my .38 frame is made from aluminum, and the .357 frame is stainless steel. Think those are the main weight considerations.

I'm not an ad for Ruger. But this LCRx is an excellent D/A revolver for me, and I plan to have it for a long time.
If you do check one out, let me know what you and your wife think about it. And ask me whatever questions you might have. I'll try to give you an answer, if I know.
PT7

Thanks PT7. I am no expert, but I think it is a J-Frame (has a small butt). As I understand it, it is based on a Lady Smith. So, I guess the thought was a woman might use it. I put a wider grip on it (fits better and more manly ). The one it came with was small. We were at a gun show, and she picked up a revolver (Ruger I think). It was a light weight frame, and she told me that it was the right weight for her. It was too light for me. But, she was not ready to let go the money (less than $500 if I recall correctly). Below is what she compared it too. I may do a .38 Special. But, reaction time and firing time come to mind, if it has to be used. A .38 Special +P may not be a bad way to go though.

S&W.jpg

[PT7]

Yeah, the S&W Lady Smith is built on a J-frame, and that's what the LCRx is also. BTW, I'm not an expert either.

Anyway, the best way to really know/learn about a new-to-me-revolver is to try to find one at an LGS to handle. It took me a while to locate this model, and finally was successful at the KCKS Cabelas. That company almost exclusively sells their firearms at the MSRP. After I was satisfied with handling the LCRx there, I found a decent price at Bud's Gun Shop in KY.

So I looked it over pretty carefully, and the Hogue Tamer grip felt really good in my hand. The light weight was about a after my last D/A revolver, which was a Ruger SP101 .357 Magnum, 4.2" barrel, stainless seal @ almost 30 oz. The LCRx cut my belt carry weight by 50%!! In spite of the LCRx not being all stainless seal, it is a solid, well-built revolver.

I guess you might tell I'm satisfied with it....both for looks and easy all-around functionality. My kind of revolver!
PT7

A .38 Special +P may not be a bad way to go though.