New Ruger American striker fired handgun in 9mm & 45 acp

[HCM]

http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2015/12/28/breaking-ruger-release-new-polymer-framed-striker-fired-ruger-american-pistol-9mm-45-acp/

So it looks like the SHOT leaks are starting. Ruger has a new polymer frame striker fired handgun with interchangeable backstraps and no finger grooves.

[El Cid]

I'd be surprised if they aren't submitting this for the FBI RFP. Seems to have most of the required features from what I can see.

[orionz06]

Looks like shit. I'm sure the locals here will praise it and it's ability to choot a boxa shells flawlessly.


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[Clay1]

One of the things that I always consider important is height of the bore above the hand. I just find low bore firearms to shoot flatter for me. I will have to hold one in my own hands before passing any type of judgement. I do find the beavertail a little different, but again, don't judge until I have at least held one.

[olstyn]

Is it me, or is the takedown lever gigantic?

[Kyle Reese]

One of the things that I always consider important is height of the bore above the hand. I just find low bore firearms to shoot flatter for me. I will have to hold one in my own hands before passing any type of judgement. I do find the beavertail a little different, but again, don't judge until I have at least held one.

I'd be willing to T&E one if Ruger sent me a 9mm variant and 10,000 rounds of ammo.

[olstyn]

I'd be willing to T&E one if Ruger sent me a 9mm variant and 10,000 rounds of ammo.

I'll bid lower. 5K rounds worth of 9mm components and a kydex OWB for it and I'll be happy to give it an honest review. :)

[HCM]

So is this supposed to replace the SR series ? The 9E?

[backtrail540]

It looks like they tried to update the old p series guns with polymer and a striker. Big and blocky.

[Danjojo]

Think they were trying to copy the Sig 320 without getting too carried away - if it is also internally similar (think it will be)...would explain why the bore axis is high-ish. At the least, grip angle and shape seem like an improvement over quite a few others.

[orionz06]

So is this supposed to replace the SR series ? The 9E?

It was said somewhere to address concerns with the SR series. The SR's didn't look too terrible.


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[45dotACP]

I'd be surprised if they aren't submitting this for the FBI RFP. Seems to have most of the required features from what I can see.

There only seems to be one problem with that...

FBI wants SIG

:D

[Cincinnatus]

I think it looks like a knockoff of a VP9.

I may be wrong, and they have their stuff together with this one; but buying a Ruger to me when there are the VP9 and the Sig 320, seems like buying a Taurus revolver when you could get a S&W gat.

[azerious]

https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/t31.0-8/1064126_1004948772909713_4257925692366412486_o.jpg
https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/t31.0-8/920671_1004948776243046_7704494837687414318_o.jpg
https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtf1/t31.0-8/12401929_1004948766243047_510487122331019397_o.jpg
https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/t31.0-8/12418832_1004948809576376_6341649108811496627_o.jp g

[Trooper224]

I find plain yogurt more exciting than anything Ruger comes up with in semi-auto pistols. I'm sure this will appeal to the PBR drinkers with confedrate flag tattoos, who equate Ruger with "murica!

[LSP972]

Looks like shit.

No kidding. What is it with those guys? While their products are generally high quality, and durable, I haven't seen a Ruger center-fire pistol yet that wouldn't make a freight train take a dirt road.

They were starting to "get it" with the SR pistols... and now this.

.

[Luke]

Wonder if the design guy from steyr left and went to ruger? And that take down lever looks huge!

[Hambo]

To me it looks like the love child of an SR and an HK/320/Walther/something. My wild guess is that SRs weren't selling like Ruger wants them to, so somebody said, "Hey, let's make it look like a gun that is selling!"

[rauchman]

While I wouldn't run out to get one, I don't think it looks much worse than some other offerings out there. As mentioned, Ruger autos, and revolvers for that matter, have a history of being reliable and durable, but somehow the autos miss the "cool" factor. The removable backstrap is a little different from most offerings I've seen. I kind of like how they approached it, although it looks like it would benefit greatly from some aggressive stippling. Curious to see reviews on the pistol.

[JTQ]

It was said somewhere to address concerns with the SR series. The SR's didn't look too terrible.


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But the SR guns have a thumb safety, which in the polymer, striker gun field is largely a niche product.

This gun looks to have dropped the thumb safety, I'm assuming the rear ambi lever is the slide release, which should make the gun more appealing to the majority of poly gun buyers.

[41magfan]

I so wished a few real "gun people" were involved in product design and development, but I suspect that will never change so long as Ruger's annual sales continue to number in the millions. I guess the bottom line will always have the final vote.

[psalms144.1]

Yes, that's one UGLY handgun. And, it's a Ruger. Having said that, and never having seen/held one, a couple of thoughts:

1. I initially thought the frame was two pieces, given the looks of there the grip and beavertail meet. Now seeing better photos, that "seam" is obviously where the backstrap/side panel unit meets the frame. Looks like there's plenty of air there, so it looks like a recipe for extreme "ouchiness"

2. The takedown lever is huge, and I can't understand it's overall design, but, hey, I don't design guns for a living

3. Is it just me, or does that trigger look flimsy? I will say, assuming we're seeing a ready-to-fire pistol in those photos, trigger reach looks pleasantly short. They've also molded in what looks like an overtravel stop in the bottom of the trigger guard, which is a nice touch, IMHO.

4. It does look like this pistol was designed with the FBI's RFP in mind, so I'm eagerly awaiting other FBI-focused releases from manufacturers I might actually spend money on.

5. Since my agency authorizes Ruger (and Taurus, saints preserve us) as personal weapons, I'm SURE I'm going to start seeing these on the line as "budget minded" folks look for something different...

[spinmove_]

This thing looks like an M&P and a TP9 had a baby. That being said, it looks like they've gotten rid of a lot of the ridiculous "safety features" that their SR series guns were plagued with. I'm definitely interested in seeing more from this gun. It'd be really cool to see this thing do well if it measures up in the quality, durability, and accuracy departments.

[ShooterM9]

It is amazing to me, and a good thing actually, to notice how there is a seemingly never-ending stream of "new" firearms being released. I put "new" in quotes simply because there is nothing really "new" about this Ruger, but simply another polymer framed striker-action handgun.

But, taking a 30,000 foot view of things....the more the merrier! It's a good sign for the health of the American people's commitment to the Second Ammendment and firearms: regardless of whatever their government may be thinking or doing at the moment.

[BehindBlueI's]

Complaining a polymer striker fired gun is not aesthetically pleasing?

http://www.joeydevilla.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/golly.jpg

I think that's pretty standard for the market segment.

If it offers a lower cost and proves reliable, I don't see the issue. It's not a Taurus Curve or the like. It's a pretty tried and true basic design with whatever spin Ruger puts on it. Given that many folks have budget limitations that lead them to more questionable offerings, this can only be a win for the market at large if executed and priced well.

[Drang]

Complaining a polymer striker fired gun is not aesthetically pleasing?

I think that's pretty standard for the market segment.

If it offers a lower cost and proves reliable, I don't see the issue. It's not a Taurus Curve or the like. It's a pretty tried and true basic design with whatever spin Ruger puts on it. Given that many folks have budget limitations that lead them to more questionable offerings, this can only be a win for the market at large if executed and priced well.

This. I want to unlike it so I can like it again.

An inexpensive polymer handgun that is esthetically unpleasing? Who cares? pretty sure Ruger isn't going for the P-F.com demographic here.
If it's reliable and accurate and concealable, and the Cletii can be convinced to carry a Ruger instead of a Taurus or a Hi Point who cares?

[Glenn E. Meyer]

What's the price points? I know that will come out soon. A relatively inexpensive but decent 45 appeals to me. Of course, the ergonomics are terrible because I judged that from a picture and the trigger looks like a Glock trigger. :rolleyes:

[Beat Trash]

I've seen Chinese made BB guns in Wal Mart that looked better.

That slide stop sticks out like a bumper. The interchangeable back strap/grips look like they do not fit the gun. It look like there is a ledge or step down where the edge of the grip meets the frame. As if they mistakenly took the back strap from their 45 pistol and put it on the 9mm pistol.

One of our armor's is a HUGE Ruger fan. I'm sure we'll be seeing a T&E gun show up, just for him to play with. Then I have to listen to how this is the GREATEST pistol currently out there. Because it has a "Ruger" logo on it.

[45dotACP]

I'd be willing to pay 250 bucks for it if it is reliable.

To me, the 350 buck pistol market is occupied by the Canik TP9 and SD9. But it's about time there was a decent middle ground between those and Hi Point...

If it retails more than 250 dollars, I suspect it'll flop, barring some sort of phenomenal performance compared to its contemporaries.

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[ReverendMeat]

I'm confused by the branding. It looks like this is going to compete directly with the SR series, unless Ruger phases them out or lowers the price point, like S&W M&Ps vs. SDs. Which doesn't make sense because the "American" brand is supposed to be a budget-friendly "best bang for the buck" line of rifles. Unless these are functionally unique compared to the SR, I don't see why ruger didn't just do what they did with the LC9 and do a "SR Pro" with fewer silly safeties and whatever aesthetic differences are trending this month.

[okie john]

Yeah, it's ugly, but polymer handguns aren't known for their beauty.

I'll be interested to shoot one when/if they show up at one of my local ranges. If nothing else, it signifies that another big player is working to up their polymer handgun game, which will only make things better over time.


Okie John

[LockedBreech]

While their products are generally high quality, and durable, I haven't seen a Ruger center-fire pistol yet that wouldn't make a freight train take a dirt road.

LMAO. That's a new one on me.

I don't HATE this thing, but with Glock, Beretta, M&P, Sig, and now an HK VP9 on my shelf I can't imagine me personally having a niche for it that isn't occupied by something better.

Do we have pricing info yet? Didn't see it in the leak.


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[Maple Syrup Actual]

I don't really care what it looks like. Polymer pistols are all hideous.

I'll reserve judgement until I shoot it. Presumably it'll be available at media day.

[Luke]

If they are $250ish I think they will be a huge success.

[Maple Syrup Actual]

BBW porn is out there too, but I'm not one to watch it.

[frozentundra]

Internet gun forums hate new guns as much as Nancy Pelosi and Michael Bloomberg do.

It looks like they designed the rear sight by reading 1990's guns&ammo magazines.



BBW porn is out there too, but I'm not one to watch it. I had to force myself not to ask google wtf this means.


I hate this gun too. Tell the gun industry I want a g19 with an m&p grip(or an m&p size g19 that's very accurate). Or, if your feeling reallllly generous, a factory long slide version of same. With a snag rear sight.

[ShooterM9]

I read on the Internet that if you buy a case of Federal 124grain 9mm, you get one of these new Rugers for free.

[FPS]

I had a strong case of anti-Ruger snobbery, mainly from reading gun forums, and then I shot an SR9c when I was comparing a bunch of sub compacts. It is now my carry pistol. It lacks the refinements of some of my other pistols but it carries and shoots well for me and has had the least malfunctions of all my guns (I suspect the two I had were Freedom Munitions reload related). The gun was an upgrade for me compared with the Shield and its awful factory trigger.

So like a couple of others have noted, I'll reserve judgment until I actually get to shoot it.

[LockedBreech]

I had a strong case of anti-Ruger snobbery, mainly from reading gun forums, and then I shot an SR9c when I was comparing a bunch of sub compacts. It is now my carry pistol. It lacks the refinements of some of my other pistols but it carries and shoots well for me and has had the least malfunctions of all my guns (I suspect the two I had were Freedom Munitions reload related). The gun was an upgrade for me compared with the Shield and its awful factory trigger.

So like a couple of others have noted, I'll reserve judgment until I actually get to shoot it.

I EDC an LCP and it's sorta like a moped. Works but I don't really talk about it.


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[Sigfan26]

I EDC an LCP and it's sorta like a moped. Works but I don't really talk about it.


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That's signature line worthy!

[SAWBONES]

Looks like shit.

This seems to be generally true of Ruger's semiauto service pistols.

I think they typically look "clunky".

[CCT125US]

I was able to handle one today, and IMO they will sell very well. Ambi controls, 17 rd mag, changeable back straps, dare I say nice trigger (crisp and light, flatish face to it), short reset, flat captured mainspring, Novak sights, trigger pull not needed to strip, $ 110 less than Glock.
The beavertail created hot spots and needs to be much more rounded on the edges. Grip sides are not parallel and angular, think more like a P30, than P2000.
Can't sell till Thursday. Did not place a deposit....

[LSP972]

I EDC an LCP and it's sorta like a moped. Works but I don't really talk about it.



Internet win for today. Too funny.

.

[Appalachained]

I can't wait to shoot one. I don't have high hopes though because I've bought several of the latest and greatest striker fired polymers to come out and I still carry a Glock. If the trigger is decent and the bore axis ain't to high it might be a winner. You never know.


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[jh9]

Well, if it doesn't hit me in the face with brass it'll automatically be a step ahead of 2 of the last 3 Glocks I bought...

[jetfire]

I shot the SR-series pistols a ton for work, and I never understood all the hate they caught from gun-peeps. Once you removed the magazine disco, the triggers were decent and the guns were reliable and accurate. I reckon that Ruger being Ruger, the new American pistol will do three things in this order: 1) work, 2) be affordable, and 3) sell like water in July.

[Lester Polfus]

Here's a review, that talks both about what Ruger has done differently, and about any gaps around the grip inserts:

http://www.realguns.com/articles/783.htm

Ruger has impressed me lately. However it may not matter how good this gun is. They have always been an also ran when it comes to semi auto centerfire pistols, so that perception is something they have to overcome.

[Appalachained]

Here's a review, that talks both about what Ruger has done differently, and about any gaps around the grip inserts:

http://www.realguns.com/articles/783.htm

Ruger has impressed me lately. However it may not matter how good this gun is. They have always been an also ran when it comes to semi auto centerfire pistols, so that perception is something they have to overcome.

Interesting. I'll end up buying one just to see.


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[Appalachained]

Delete

[JonInWA]

That Real Guns review was nicely done and detailed. This could be a very credible candidate for the FBI, and others, with intended retail-market carry-over. It will be very interesting to see how it performs under testing protocols and field use. On it's face, with the information provided to date this gun certainly seems to be a viable contender. Performance and price points will be followed closely.

Best, Jon

[LockedBreech]

I wonder why it's not available in .40? I realize .40 is falling out of favor but it's still a pretty big seller to freaks and weirdos like me.

[The Apprentice]

5200looks alot like this tp9sa but with uglier adjustable backstraps. I bet ruger hired the guy that thought carbon fiber M&Ps looked cool.

[LockedBreech]

5200looks alot like this tp9sa but with uglier adjustable backstraps. I bet ruger hired the guy that thought carbon fiber M&Ps looked cool.

Hey, that's not nice, they had to drink a lot of Monster Energy to come up with that idea.

[El Cid]

I don't think it's ugly. It will be a while before I trust a Ruger semi-auto.

It is sad they went with Novak style rear sights. One handed manipulations will be tough.

[perlslacker]

It will be a while before I trust a Ruger semi-auto.

What was wrong with their P-series guns? Sure they were heavy bastards but they ran.

[Appalachained]

Wonder if the design guy from steyr left and went to ruger? And that take down lever looks huge!

Wilhelm Bubits works for Caracal now. He's the engineer. Looks are a byproduct. He originally worked for Gaston.


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[fixer]

The old P series guns were not pleasant to the eye either. This segment of the market is mostly about performance and cost.

I'm game to give one a try assuming it is in the sub $400 range and will have some promise of aftermarket support.

I've had 2 P-series and an SR9 and all three were good to go.

[El Cid]

What was wrong with their P-series guns? Sure they were heavy bastards but they ran.

Well first I did mis-speak. I love my Ruger 22/45! So long as I don't have to take it apart and reassemble it. Haha!

My last involvement with a P series Ruger was a good friend's P90 45ACP. I never enjoyed shooting it - found it top heavy and not very ergonomic. His also left dings in the primer of the chambered round after decocking. That was enough to keep me away.

[45dotACP]

This thread though: We start talking about clunky ruger autos and a Ruger p89 shows up in the local fun store for 199 bucks.

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[LockedBreech]

This thread though: We start talking about clunky ruger autos and a Ruger p89 shows up in the local fun store for 199 bucks.

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I knew a kindly old chap who ran a very successful range and gun store. Despite all his fancy guns under the glass his hip gun was a beat-to-snot P89 he said he'd never had a bobble from.


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[ranger]

We had a local IDPA state once where the end of stage was picking up a Ruger semiauto 9mm pistol and engaging 3 targets 2 rounds each. My best hits were with the Ruger 9mm. I sometimes look at my preferred pistol and wonder about that Ruger 9mm.............

[Wondering Beard]

Ed Head has a review in Downrange TV: http://www.downrange.tv/blog/ruger-american-pistols/36322/

[11B10]

Is it me, or is the takedown lever gigantic?


It's not you - I thought the one on my P320 was big (and it is) - but Ruger's is huge.

[jetfire]

It's not you - I thought the one on my P320 was big (and it is) - but Ruger's is huge.

Looks like a thumb rest to me.

[Casual Friday]

I'd hit it. I mean afterall, I did buy a SD9VE 3 years ago on a whim AND I still have it. YOLO, and buying a Ruger won't be the worst decision I made this week...

[fixer]

I'm digging this thing after reading the RealGuns review. The price point should put it a wee bit above the SR series. If this thing has widespread availability of magazines and at least a few good holsters (to start), and the possibility of a compact, I'm all in.

[Sigfan26]

Just handled one... Very impressed. Trigger was, dare I say it, awesome.

[SLG]

I've never been a fan of Ruger's auto's (except for the MK II's).

I love Ruger's SA Revolvers.

I like Ruger's DA Revolvers.

I like their single shot rifles. A lot.

Ruger has almost always built a high value for the buck gun. Before any other manufacturer, Ruger made solid guns at working man prices. A guy I tremendously respect said something like, "Ruger armed working class America more than any other gun maker." I think that's pretty fair.

I don't really care about this new one, but I suspect it will do well, and if it runs well, good for them and their buyers.

[Tamara]

Seventy-one comments and no mention of the lack of a .40 S&W version?

I are dissappoint, internets.

[Casual Friday]

I wonder why it's not available in .40? I realize .40 is falling out of favor but it's still a pretty big seller to freaks and weirdos like me.


Seventy-one comments and no mention of the lack of a .40 S&W version?

I are dissappoint, internets.

[Sigfan26]

The Blade Tech holster sent with the ones at the shop I was at listed fit as "Ruger American 9/40/45". It's coming. They just focused on the largest markets first, if I had to guess.

[Tamara]

smackdown

I not read so good. :/

[LockedBreech]

Seventy-one comments and no mention of the lack of a .40 S&W version?

I are dissappoint, internets.

Ugh you made me feel so mall ninja


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[45dotACP]

I've never been a fan of Ruger's auto's (except for the MK II's).

I love Ruger's SA Revolvers.

I like Ruger's DA Revolvers.

I like their single shot rifles. A lot.

Ruger has almost always built a high value for the buck gun. Before any other manufacturer, Ruger made solid guns at working man prices. A guy I tremendously respect said something like, "Ruger armed working class America more than any other gun maker." I think that's pretty fair.

I don't really care about this new one, but I suspect it will do well, and if it runs well, good for them and their buyers.

Can't hate any of this...

The Ruger Precision Rifle just showed up in my area and I am impressed with what I'm seeing. I've also spent some time behind a SR1911 and while you could shuck out a few bucks more for a Colt, it's a well thought out 1911 and I'd go for it if I were looking for a 1911 that I weren't gonna send to the smith, I'd go with a Ruger over a lot of its contemporaries...

I'd be interested to try out this new gat, but honestly I'm a Glock shooter so not ever holding or shooting one will be no great loss. Ruger has done some very cool stuff the past few years and not much of it was related to polymer framed striker fired guns. I hope it's a good gun and serves its purpose well, but it's ugly as a turd on fire.

That said, I shoot mostly glocks, so there is that...I'd turn some money into noise with one for shits and giggles.

[Chuck Whitlock]

Ed Head has a review in Downrange TV: http://www.downrange.tv/blog/ruger-american-pistols/36322/

From the linked article:

"The insert, or fire control chassis need not be removed for normal cleaning and maintenance. By the way, the chassis is the “gun”, the serial numbered part, and the serial number can be found by looking at the rear of the pistol between the frame and the slide."

So, the frame is akin to the Sig 320?

[Casual Friday]

I mosey'd on over to one of the Ruger forums and much to my surprise it doesn't seem to be very popular there. They don't see the need with the SR series already in the lineup, lol.

[Tamara]

They don't see the need with the SR series already in the lineup, lol.

I'll admit it's got me confused, too. The Original Gangsta Ruger P-series autos lasted over 25 years years before being finally phased out and completely supplanted by the SRs. How long is this thing supposed to sit in the catalog and compete against their own SR guns before one or the other goes away? The SR guns haven't even been on the market a full decade yet.

[JonInWA]

Ruger's had some significant management changes in the past few years. The SR series has had some issues as well. Throw into the mix the potential FBI contract, along with numbers of Glock shooters apparently allergic to the Gen3/4 fingergrooved frames, and there's the potential for a not insignificant market niche capture by Ruger. (and a relatively early demise of the SR series). While relatively unusual, Ruger has retired some series in a relatively short time, such as the P91, P93 P94, P97, and P345.

The P89 and P90 series hung in there for literally decades becaues they were (and I argue still are) efficacious and cost-efficient-both to manufacture and to acquire, use and maintain-they were both tremendously over-engineered for their cartridges.

All this somewhat presupposes that the American is in fact a decent, accurate and trouble-free platform. Ruger certainly has the manufacturing knowledge, resources, and marketing acumen and network to come up with a commercial and LEO viable and cost-effective pistol. While I doubt it'll be a user-friendly to detail disassemble as, say, a Glock, it'll probably be less so that a HK VP and probably on par with S&W's M&P. If Ruger can build in enough durability to obviate the need for user detailed disassembly, but keep it relatively simple and time-efficient for unit armorers, they may well have a winner. And that's before consideration of their low price point...

Best, Jon

[Clay]

The SR series has been very problematic, at least in the sample I see at my local range. Broken slide stops and extractors are quite common.

[LockedBreech]

I know it's not really relevant to the quality of the product but I really hate the name "American Pistol" as I did "American Rifle." Very cheesy.


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[GardoneVT]

Its a better business decision then it seems.

Ruger is well aware of the market reality that to get greater market share, you need LE/Military contracts and reputation . The SR series will never get that cred ,which relegates it to second-tier status in the marketplace against the Glock and M&P regardless of the weapon's merits. Taurus got a lot of mileage out of the 24/7 OSS being entered into the 2006 trials despite it being biblical dog-vomit.

From my perch, Ruger looks to be market-testing two paths for their handgun lineup. If the American handgun gets LE/military acceptance and thus greater sales, the SR is probably history. Conversely if the American doesn't get traction in the public-service market , it'll go away and the SR will remain.

From a wider market perspective, Glock and S&W better look out. Between Glock's well known "Brass to the Face" 9mms and S&W's well publicised "Minute of Stormtrooper" M&P9s , Ruger can carve out a nice market space provided this runs as advertised without any recalls or problems. Glock can advertise Perfection, but Ruger needs to acheive it if they want this product to work. If there's so much as one issue.....game over.

[ranger]

I think there is a big opportunity for a well priced, name brand, 9mm auto with all the new gun owners coming to market. If this new Ruger gains a positive reputation and is priced below Glock and S&W - much less HK and SIG - it may do very well indeed. I do not work at a LGS but I can see new gun owners coming into the shop and sliding down the counter until they hit the shelf with brand new Ruger 9mm that undercuts the other "name" brands.

We had a great thread recently on the S&W SDVE 9mm that is in that sweet spot for new shooters - less than $300.

[Kirk]

I may pick one up for the heck of it.

I love my MP9L with Apex everything, but if it is producing 1.5" groups at 25 yards like I've read, I'd give it a try

[azerious]

Been looking at the reviews, this is actually looking REALLY good!

Kudos to Ruger for stepping up their game

[ShooterM9]

Has anyone posted the article and video by Jeff Quinn on the Ruger American Pistol yet?

http://www.gunblast.com/Ruger-AmericanPistol.htm

Take it with a grain of salt, because Jeff Quinn is basically a paid shill for Ruger, who wines him and dines him. Quinn never met a firearm he didn't like and has admitted that he never does a negative review of any firearm, but ....

FWIW.

PS - By the way, Quinn acts like he is in his seventies, but he is actually only 56 years old! If he would shave off all that scraggly hair on his face he calls a beard he may not look like some backwoods geezer.

[Nephrology]

Has anyone posted the article and video by Jeff Quinn on the Ruger American Pistol yet?

http://www.gunblast.com/Ruger-AmericanPistol.htm

Take it with a grain of salt, because Jeff Quinn is basically a paid shill for Ruger, who wines him and dines him. Quinn never met a firearm he didn't like and has admitted that he never does a negative review of any firearm, but ....

FWIW.

PS - By the way, Quinn acts like he is in his seventies, but he is actually only 56 years old! If he would shave off all that scraggly hair on his face he calls a beard he may not look like some backwoods geezer.

His review lists the MSRP at $579. Does that strike anyone as a tad high?

Assuming a street price of ~450 they will still have a hard time competing against S&W unless the gun truly impresses the right tactical wunderkinder. That said, if it functions reliably, is duty-pistol accurate and has no serious fleas when it comes on the market, it might represent a competitor to Glock/S&W, both of whom have had issues with their 9mm pistols that may make it worth a hard look. We'll see I suppose.

[Peally]

Meh it's another average looking poly pistol. I'm not complaining about having more options out there for shooters.

It can't be as bad as the abortion that was the Remington R51.

ETA: Keep in mind that they just chucked out the Ruger Precision Rifle to raving reviews as well. Ruger isn't what I immediately associate with "super innovative", but lately they seem to be doing just fine churning out quality firearms compared to budget companies like Kel-Tec or Taurus. I wouldn't sell your VP9s and Tangfos for this thing, but don't assume it's a piece of garbage right out of the gate.

[Clobbersaurus]

Some words from the Ruger CEO...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UI-nEvHtLPc

EDIt...yes I know his grip is um, shall we say, not optimal, but he's a pencil pusher, give him a break! ;)

[Rosco Benson]

Ruger will sell a ton of these. It seems to have a solid set of features. The pointless thumb safety of the SR isn't present. I won't carry a pistol with a thumb safety that I leave off (and hope that it stays that way). Murphy never sleeps.

The cosmetics of the pistol aren't really ugly to me...just a little odd. There seems to be a recurring theme of triangle shapes. No stranger than the goofy wavering cocking serrations on a S&W M&P.

I haven't kept up on IDPA rules, but given that the striker is not further "cocked" by trigger movement, it'll have to compete in EDP instead of SSP. This made me recall that, during the founding and early days of IDPA, Ken Hackathorn said that they wanted the "guy with a Ruger autopistol and an Uncle Mike's holster' to have a classification to compete in.

I hope they sell fabulously well for Ruger. Each new person getting a "high capacity" pistol is one more person who will probably raise a ruckus when the anti-gunners yammer about taking them away.

Rosco

[Rosco Benson]

ETA: Keep in mind that they just chucked out the Ruger Precision Rifle to raving reviews as well. Ruger isn't what I immediately associate with "super innovative", but lately they seem to be doing just fine churning out quality firearms compared to budget companies like Kel-Tec or Taurus. I wouldn't sell your VP9s and Tangfos for this thing, but don't assume it's a piece of garbage right out of the gate.

What with all the Ruger products that have come out the last 10-15 years that are CLEARLY people-shooters, they should hook a generator to ol' Bill Ruger's body and make enough electricity to power their factory as he spins in his grave.

Rosco

[HCM]

What with all the Ruger products that have come out the last 10-15 years that are CLEARLY people-shooters, they should hook a generator to ol' Bill Ruger's body and make enough electricity to power their factory as he spins in his grave.

Rosco

The funny thing about that is the "classics" the "Ruger Classics"were based on were originally people shooters - Mauser bolt action, SA revolver, falling block singe shot rifle - all started as people shooters.

[Casual Friday]

I'll admit it's got me confused, too. The Original Gangsta Ruger P-series autos lasted over 25 years years before being finally phased out and completely supplanted by the SRs. How long is this thing supposed to sit in the catalog and compete against their own SR guns before one or the other goes away? The SR guns haven't even been on the market a full decade yet.

I would be confused too if they were just marketing it towards their current clientele, but since the SR series will never be adopted by an LE and it appears that's what they are intending this pistol for it makes sense to me. Then again so did late night Taco Bell on New Years Eve.

[Gadfly]

I hope they improve the finish. That bluing used on thier mags rusts if you stare at it too long. Even their stainless is less than stainless. That said, the finish on my 1970s 10/22 and mini 14 holds up much better than any of the bluing on the mags.

[Rosco Benson]

The funny thing about that is the "classics" the "Ruger Classics"were based on were originally people shooters - Mauser bolt action, SA revolver, falling block singe shot rifle - all started as people shooters.

True that. Ol' Bill just seemed to think that the common folk didn't need big magazines or easily concealable revolvers and autopistols. He even pitched a high-capacity magazine ban idea to the congresscritters of his day. I wouldn't buy any of their stuff after that.

I'm glad that subsequent management understands that self-defense is not an evil concept. I can, once again, purchase their products without enriching someone who thinks I'm a serf or something.

Rosco

[pangloss]

Some words from the Ruger CEO...

EDIt...yes I know his grip is um, shall we say, not optimal, but he's a pencil pusher, give him a break! ;)

Interesting video. In 2011, I used Ruger's "voice of the customer" to suggest that they make an AK-47/74 or some closely related variant thereof. About 45 minutes later I received an e-mail from Mike Fifer saying that it would be unlikely for Ruger to make any AKs while he runs the company. As a bit of explanation, he said that as young man he spent some time in the Navy hunting Russian submarines under the north pole. Apparently hunting Russian submarines biases one against Russian small arms. Regardless, I was very impressed with his quick response, even if we're stuck with "Ruger American Rifles" and not "Ruger Russian Rifles." (The alliteration in "Ruger Russian Rifle" sounds better, even if it is un-American).

A few months later, I used the voice of the customer again, but that time to suggest that Ruger put the single shot Ruger No. 3 back in production, at least for limited runs. I already have a Ruger No. 1, but I would love a No. 3. Fifer never replied to that e-mail, but a few weeks later a box from Ruger appeared on my doorstep. The box had a really nice Ruger baseball cap and a thank you note for letting them know of my fondness for Ruger single shots. Again, I was impressed because I knew some one was really reading the suggestions, but I gave the cap to my dad. I'm not sure how the Ruger American pistol will play out. Had I not convinced my dad to buy a Glock 17 a few years ago, I could see him buying a Ruger American. He loves that cap and still regrets selling a Ruger bolt action he owned before I was born.

I own several Glocks, but I do sometimes buy other pistols out of curiosity. To my shame, I was one of the people who fell for the Taurus 24/7 OSS (then quickly traded it toward Gen4 G17), so maybe with the right cover picture on G&A, I might buy a Ruger American. If it does well in the Army pistol trials, it'll definitely get a lot of people to take their centerfire autoloading pistols more seriously. Right now I'm very tempted by the Sig P320, which are selling for ~$450 on Gubroker. I'm not sure what it would take for me to want to spend that $450 on a Ruger American instead of a P320.

[Tamara]

True that. Ol' Bill just seemed to think that the common folk didn't need big magazines or easily concealable revolvers and autopistols.

"No honest man needs a handgun smaller than a canned ham."

[Trooper224]

All plastic fantastic have a face only a mother could love, so looks shouldn't be a concern. As long as it's reliable and and accurate it will capture a certain share of the market. Other than that, it's just another Bic Lighter posing as a handgun.

[Nephrology]

All plastic fantastic have a face only a mother could love, so looks shouldn't be a concern. As long as it's reliable and and accurate it will capture a certain share of the market. Other than that, it's just another Bic Lighter posing as a handgun.

Grandpa? you post on pistol-forum too?? :D

[RJ]

Um, recognizing I represent the great unwashed, I actually kind of like it how it looks.

The mag release is...on both sides, right? And there are two slide catches/releases? So it kind of looks lefty-friendly to me. The design cues / angles seem harmonious, or at least cohesive.

17 rounds? Picatinny rail? Field strip w/o trigger? All this is good. If it shoots reliably and well, ejects adequately, and has reasonable and affordable accesories, I think it should sell well.

I paid $549 for my M&P FS9 in Nov 2013; I think a $400-$500 price point with street pricing lower, maybe $350-$450, and it should do very well.

Does anyone know if they have a Compact version of this?

(Edit: added it to my pistol comparison list.)

PISTOL SIZE COMPARISON

H Sig Sp2022 Length 7.4" Height 5.7" Barrel 3.9" Width 1.4" 15 Rds

S Ruger American Length 7.5" Height 5.6" Barrel 4.2" Width 1.3" 17 Rds

S M&P FS9 Length 7.6" Height 5.5" Barrel 4.3" Width 1.2" 17 rds

S HK VP9 Length 7.3" Height 5.4" Barrel 4.1" Width 1.3" 15 rds 25.6 oz

H Sig P229. Length 7.1" Height 5.4" Barrel 3.9" Width 1.5" 10/13 Rds

CZ P-07 Length 7.2" Height 5.3" Barrel Width 1.5" 15 Rds

S Sig P320 C Length 7.2" Height 5.3" Barrel 3.9" Width 1.3" 15 rds

S Walther PPQ Length 7.1" Height 5.3" Barrel 4.0" Width 1.3" 15 Rds

H Sig P239 Length 6.6" Height 5.1" Barrel 3.2" Width 1.2" 8 Rds

S Glock 19 Length 7.4" Height 5.0" Barrel: 4.0" width 1.2" 15 rds

[Joe in PNG]

Looks better (to me at least) than the CZ P09, Walther PPX, or any XD.

[FPS]

MAC gives it a "meh"


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxqL9L-0sN8

[azerious]

Held one today and took it apart....ALOT of little parts and areas inside that dirt can penetrate and hang out. Mag release felt chintzy. Grips felt "OK" but as nice as I thought they would. I wouldn't NOT own one....but for their $529 price tag, Glock all the way sorry :(

[GardoneVT]

I don't understand the emphasis on looks with a gun of this category. Want a pretty 9mm that works for under $500 bucks? Snag a used Beretta or Sig.

Otherwise, Glocks included, you're buying a tool. Way I see it reviewing this guns looks is like critiquing the aesthetics of a Lowe's brand hammer .

[Trooper224]

MAC gives it a "meh"


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxqL9L-0sN8

How does it handle the plate steel impact test?

[Trooper224]

Grandpa? you post on pistol-forum too?? :D

I'm someone's grandpa, but I will niether confirm nor deny that I am yours. ;)

[Casual Friday]

With flat base plates, the Sig SP2022 is 5.25" in height.


Um, recognizing I represent the great unwashed, I actually kind of like it how it looks.

The mag release is...on both sides, right? And there are two slide catches/releases? So it kind of looks lefty-friendly to me. The design cues / angles seem harmonious, or at least cohesive.

17 rounds? Picatinny rail? Field strip w/o trigger? All this is good. If it shoots reliably and well, ejects adequately, and has reasonable and affordable accesories, I think it should sell well.

I paid $549 for my M&P FS9 in Nov 2013; I think a $400-$500 price point with street pricing lower, maybe $350-$450, and it should do very well.

Does anyone know if they have a Compact version of this?

(Edit: added it to my pistol comparison list.)

PISTOL SIZE COMPARISON

H Sig Sp2022 Length 7.4" Height 5.7" Barrel 3.9" Width 1.4" 15 Rds

S Ruger American Length 7.5" Height 5.6" Barrel 4.2" Width 1.3" 17 Rds

S M&P FS9 Length 7.6" Height 5.5" Barrel 4.3" Width 1.2" 17 rds

S HK VP9 Length 7.3" Height 5.4" Barrel 4.1" Width 1.3" 15 rds 25.6 oz

H Sig P229. Length 7.1" Height 5.4" Barrel 3.9" Width 1.5" 10/13 Rds

CZ P-07 Length 7.2" Height 5.3" Barrel Width 1.5" 15 Rds

S Sig P320 C Length 7.2" Height 5.3" Barrel 3.9" Width 1.3" 15 rds

S Walther PPQ Length 7.1" Height 5.3" Barrel 4.0" Width 1.3" 15 Rds

H Sig P239 Length 6.6" Height 5.1" Barrel 3.2" Width 1.2" 8 Rds

S Glock 19 Length 7.4" Height 5.0" Barrel: 4.0" width 1.2" 15 rds

[Jim Watson]

I haven't kept up on IDPA rules, but given that the striker is not further "cocked" by trigger movement, it'll have to compete in EDP instead of SSP. This made me recall that, during the founding and early days of IDPA, Ken Hackathorn said that they wanted the "guy with a Ruger autopistol and an Uncle Mike's holster' to have a classification to compete in.


Rules change. We now have:
8.2.1 Stock Service Pistol Division (SSP)
8.2.1.1 Handguns permitted for use in SSP must:
8.2.1.1.1 Have a minimum annual production of 2,000 units. Discontinued models must have had a total production of 20,000 units.
8.2.1.1.2 Be semi-automatic.
8.2.1.1.3 Be double action, double action only, or striker fired.

There are getting to be so many striker fired guns that the quasi double action of a Glock was no longer deemed definitive.
Surely Ruger can crank out 2000 of a new model this year to be official. In practice, I have never heard of production rate being checked.

I wonder if they will submit it to USPSA and IPSC for Production. They should.

[TiroFijo]

MAC gives it a "meh"

I would say, to me it looks more like thumbs down, with polite wording...

[Maple Syrup Actual]

Watched the video...it's a clunky polymer 9mm that may take skin off the web of your hand and beats the shit out of one knuckle.

They better be glad Glock doesn't have Smith and Wesson's patent infringement lawyers.

[RJ]

MAC gives it a "meh"


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxqL9L-0sN8

Just watched this. I like it a lot less now, especially at a $579 MSRP.

[GJM]

I would say, to me it looks more like thumbs down, with polite wording...


Watched the video...it's a clunky polymer 9mm that may take skin off the web of your hand and beats the shit out of one knuckle.

They better be glad Glock doesn't have Smith and Wesson's patent infringement lawyers.


Just watched this. I like it a lot less now, especially at a $579 MSRP.

I didn't watch the whole video, but enough to know this pistol doesn't add anything to the assortment of striker pistols that interest me. How come someone on the design team at Ruger couldn't figure out a 9mm that hurts to shoot is a bad thing?

[CCT125US]

I didn't watch the whole video, but enough to know this pistol doesn't add anything to the assortment of striker pistols that interest me. How come someone on the design team at Ruger couldn't figure out a 9mm that hurts to shoot is a bad thing?

That would require someone on the design team actually shooting / holding it with a proper grip..... which based on my handling of it takes about 2 seconds.

[Kyle Reese]

Interesting video. In 2011, I used Ruger's "voice of the customer" to suggest that they make an AK-47/74 or some closely related variant thereof. About 45 minutes later I received an e-mail from Mike Fifer saying that it would be unlikely for Ruger to make any AKs while he runs the company. As a bit of explanation, he said that as young man he spent some time in the Navy hunting Russian submarines under the north pole. Apparently hunting Russian submarines biases one against Russian small arms. Regardless, I was very impressed with his quick response, even if we're stuck with "Ruger American Rifles" and not "Ruger Russian Rifles." (The alliteration in "Ruger Russian Rifle" sounds better, even if it is un-American).

Wow..

[JonInWA]

I had a chance to handle both the 9mm and .45 ACP Ruger American pistols at a Ruger-stocking gunshop last week. I was offered a chance to fire them as part of Ruger's product line intro program availed to select dealers, but just didn't have the time. I was impressed with the overall ergos and especially the triggerpull on both-short, crisp, with a discernible reset point. There appeared to be a bit of a magazine issue with the .45 ACP gun, as it wouldn't go fully into battery with the magazine inserted-probably a minor magazine follower issue.

While I don't necessarily see the Americans as Glock 17/21 HK VP9/40 killers, they do on their face seem to be credible efforts. Street price at the volume shop I visited was $450 as I recall.

Best, Jon

[GardoneVT]

I didn't watch the whole video, but enough to know this pistol doesn't add anything to the assortment of striker pistols that interest me. How come someone on the design team at Ruger couldn't figure out a 9mm that hurts to shoot is a bad thing?

It is just one video. When it comes to firearms and ergonomics, one man's dessert is another mans broccoli.

[ReverendMeat]

I like it a lot less now, especially at a $579 MSRP.

Just checked with my former LGS, they have 'em priced at $440 fwiw.

[olstyn]

It seems grabagun's monthly giveaway is the 9mm. I figured I might as well enter, not that I ever win. :P

[YVK]

I handled one today. Mag catch barely usable. Trigger felt stiff. Didn't like it.

[5pins]

A friend of mine shooting the Ruger at 100 yards.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjBPd99D2gg

[tcba_joe]

The only real interesting feature of this gun is it's use of a serialized chassis system like the P250/P320 (and the Berretta guns). At this point, I personally think it needs to be a standard design point on all new polymer guns.

[MGW]

Shouldn't this be the Ruger American? Not mine by the way.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/06/8a82784a1ffac838d0907d1278f13348.jpg

[45dotACP]

(Adjusts 1911 nerd glasses) The Ruger SR1911 sure is a heck of a good choice if you're looking for an entry level gun. The night watch models are kinda cool, and I recall a high level 1911 smith working on one and giving it good marks as a base gun for a build.

That said, back to the plastic fantastics. I'm interested in these serialized chassis guns. It's an idea that's been growing on me.

Sent from my VS876 using Tapatalk

[Buckshot]

Ruger does have confusing marketing at times, but I bet the longterm course will be the American becoming the flagship polyauto & the SR-9 hanging on in its 9E form as a budget gun to compete with the SD9.
As much of a fuggly bastich all the P series guns were, I've never repaired a broken one (had to reassemble a bunch of 'em for customers though). I really haven't seen any problems with the SR-9 series over the years, but I don't have any customers running them as hard as we see done with Glocks, M&Ps, Sigs or HKs. The SR-9s usually sit ignored in our sales counter unless a customer has actually shot one before.

[Trooper224]

I handled one of these tonight. Typical Ruger, big, chunky and with the ergonomics of a Freightliner. Oh, the trigger was junk too. It was a rental and the range staff told me Ruger had sent ammo along with it and anyone could shoot five rounds for free. I passed on free ammo if that tells you anything.

[GJM]

Five round torture test, they must lurk on PF.

[LSP972]

Five round torture test, they must lurk on PF.

Yeah. A whole five rounds? Wow; sign me up.;)

.

[perlslacker]

Typical Ruger, big, chunky and with the ergonomics of a Freightliner.

You ever been in the cab of a Freightliner Cascadia? They're actually pretty comfortable.

[LockedBreech]

What I find the most frustrating is that I think that with their sales figures Ruger really could build a competitive service pistol if they wanted to and didn't cut corners, on the level of any of the major players. They've built some really solid revolvers and rifles.

[HCM]

I finally got to handle a Ruger American today. I was not at all impressed. MAC was correct about the grip time. The grip itself didn't feel bad though it's a little slick, but the transition from the rounded M&P-ish grip to the Square blocky tang feels weird and annoying. I can see it being even more annoying in live fire.

The trigger was nothing to write home about either. It was best described as springy, like one of those toy guns that shoot little plastic disks.

It seems solid enough and I'm sure it will function but I've personally been a lot more impressed with the Smith & Wesson SD9 and the Camic TP -9, both of which cell about $100 or more under the estimated street price for the Ruger American. I'm certainly not a Ruger Peter, I really like the rifles room fires and revolvers but this thing is a disappointment.

[Drang]

I finally got to handle a Ruger American today. I was not at all impressed. MAC was correct about the grip time. The grip itself didn't feel bad though it's a little slick, but the transition from the rounded M&P-ish grip to the Square blocky tang feels weird and annoying. I can see it being even more annoying in live fire.
That should be easy to fix, either by Ruger or by the aftermarket.

The trigger was nothing to write home about either. It was best described as springy, like one of those toy guns that shoot little plastic disks.
Better or worse than the stock M&P?

[Trooper224]

Five round torture test, they must lurk on PF.

I thought about firing off the five rounds then throwing it down range and having it recorded, just so I could do my own Youtube-esque torture test.

[HCM]

That should be easy to fix, either by Ruger or by the aftermarket.

Better or worse than the stock M&P?

I thought the trigger worse than a stock M&P.

The square portion of the tang is part of the frame, not the grip insert, so I'm not sure how the aftermarket is going to fix it.

[Drang]

The square portion of the tang is part of the frame, not the grip insert, so I'm not sure how the aftermarket is going to fix it.
I misunderstood.

[Robert Mitchum]

The owner of the range I go to let me try one today.. 9mm model.
Did not feel anything in my Knuckle or any discomfort shooting it.
Have large hands and do wrist rolls with 85 pound dumbbells so nothing feels that bad to me.
I am not a Ruger fan or hater never owned one so did not know what to expect.
I liked it and for the price think it is well made and fairly accurate... the owner of the range said it has over 1000 rounds so far with no problems.
The indoor lighting and my 63 year old eyes this was the best I got at 25 Meters
.
12 round group 5" Center to Center with 115 grain Ball Wall Mart Crap.

5423

[RJ]

I thought the trigger worse than a stock M&P.



Ugh. That is not good news.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Casual Friday]

I briefly looked at one of these today SHOT. Curiously, while it's a striker fired gun with a fully tensioned striker, it does not employ a firing pin block. The lead designer of the gun is here and I plan on talking to him about how the firing mechanism works and why a firing pin block is not needed.

"Booger hook bang switch" FTW!

[Maple Syrup Actual]

I thought it shot pretty well, actually. There's a more positive reset on the .45 for some reason. But if you're prepared to flip and press, I don't know, I think the Ruger works fine. I couldn't tell anything about durability or reliability in the few mags I ran through each gun (obviously) but I didn't find it at all difficult to shoot.

I definitely didn't notice it beating on my thumb knuckle or anything.

[Buckshot]

Only handled it at SHOT, but ergonomically its a loser in my book. I'd certainly choose an SR-9 over it if those were my choices.