Need some Ruger LCP ammo? According to Michael Bane’s blog, a major ammunition manufacturer will bring a new .380 loading to the market that is specifically designed for the Ruger LCP. This is exciting, as two current problems exist with the current crop of ammunition and the LCP.
The first problem is the .380 ACP cartridge is an underpowered chambering. Generally, the .380 loads are weaker than what is available for the .38 Special. For self-defense, you need all the bang you can get.
The second problem is I have been getting some reports that the LCP is ammunition sensitive. Some popular cartridges are not feeding properly. This, of course, is a HUGE problem if it extends to the entire line of LCP’s and not just a few examples. One of the reports was posted as feedback here (scroll all the way down).
Time will tell who brings what to the market. However, Bane has a lot of good contacts and I expect this information is very reliable. I expect we will see a variety of Ruger LCP ammo loads in the near future.
There are a number of smaller ammunition manufacturers who are producing .380 ACP ammo and I imagine they are testing the loads in the LCP. Â They might not market the loads as “Ruger LCP ammo,” but I suspect that they are definitely testing it since it is such a popular handgun. Â After all, if your ammo doesn’t work in one of the most popular concealed carry pistols, why would anyone buy it?
Update – November 2008: Hornady has introduced a new line of ammunition: Critical Defense. The Hornady Critical Defense ammunition is designed for self-defense from small handguns like the Ruger LCP. I’m not sure this is the ammunition that Bane was hinting at, but it certainly fits. More information about the Critical Defense ammo can be found here.
36 replies on “Ruger LCP Ammo”
I’ve had my Ruger LCP for several months now firing about 600 rounds through it. I had a FTF problem at first. This was identical to the FTF problem I had with my Kel-Tec PF-9. For both pistols my gunsmith polished the feed ramp and I’ve not had a failure since. I’ve run cheap and pricey ammo through it, HP and FMJ. This little jewel does just what I ask of it; conceals and fires on demand. During summer months wearing shorts, t-shirt and sandles the LCP easily conceals in my pocket. With an Uncle Mike’s pocket holster you completely hide the silhouette and protects clothing and thigh from rubbing. Naturally as the weather cools the LCP is put away for its big brothers; 9mm, .357 mag, and ultimately my .45 when heavy coats are worn.
Ramon,
Thanks for the feedback! Now, maybe we can get Ruger to just polish the feed ramps before they leave the factory?
I had serious issues with the Ruger LCP FTF when firing the Cor-Bon PowRBall 70 1210.3 it consistently jams. I like the feel of this little gun but a not willling at this time to stake my life on this weapon miss firing would someone recommend a good defensive round for this weapon.
I’ve gotten a lot of feedback on the LCPs and the ammo it likes. The -best- source on ammo and these guns is over at the ProArms Podcast. Massad Ayoob and several others all had the chance to run several of the LCP through their paces. Some interesting information about what ammo worked for them came out. It is worth checking out.