When it comes to concealed carry, the Ruger LCR .38+P stands out as my all-time favorite revolver. It’s compact, lightweight, and reliable, making it a no-brainer for daily carry. The polymer frame combined with the aluminum cylinder housing keeps the weight down, which is critical for all-day wear. At just under 14 ounces, I can carry it in a holster or even a pocket without feeling weighed down.
1. Simple Yet Effective Design

One of the things I appreciate most about the LCR is its simplicity. The design strips away unnecessary frills and focuses on what matters: functionality. This revolver isn’t about impressing anyone at the range with flashy features. Instead, it’s about having a reliable self-defense tool that performs when it matters most.
2. Compact But Comfortable

At first glance, the Ruger LCR might seem too small for a comfortable grip. But the oversized rubber grip changes everything. Unlike many other compact revolvers that sacrifice comfort for size, the LCR’s grip fits naturally in my hand. The textured surface provides a secure hold, even during extended practice sessions.
3. Hammerless Design for Seamless Carry

The hammerless, double-action-only configuration of the LCR is a feature I’ve come to love. Without an exposed hammer, there’s nothing to snag on clothing or holsters, making it ideal for concealed carry. The smooth design ensures a quick draw, whether I’m pulling it from a pocket holster or waistband rig.
4. Superior Trigger Performance

One of the standout features of the Ruger LCR is its trigger. Many revolvers have a heavy, uneven trigger pull, but not this one. The LCR’s trigger offers a consistent and smooth pull from start to finish, making it easier to stay on target. Whether I’m shooting slowly for accuracy or practicing rapid follow-up shots, the trigger never disappoints.
5. Perfect for Self-Defense

The Ruger LCR was built with self-defense in mind. It’s not a precision target revolver, and that’s okay. The short barrel and simple sights are optimized for close-range encounters, where quick reaction and reliability are key. For me, that’s exactly what I want in a carry gun.
6. Recoil? No Problem

Shooting .38+P rounds out of a lightweight revolver might sound intimidating, but the LCR handles recoil surprisingly well. The rubber grip does an excellent job of absorbing the shock, making even hotter defensive loads manageable. I’ve shot plenty of compact revolvers that felt punishing, but the LCR is different. It’s comfortable enough to shoot regularly, which is crucial for staying proficient.
7. Range Performance

At the range, the Ruger LCR delivers consistent accuracy for its size. Most defensive encounters happen within 21 feet, so that’s the distance I practice at. The revolver performs reliably, grouping shots where I need them to go. It’s not a precision instrument, but it doesn’t need to be. For its intended purpose, the LCR hits all the right marks.
8. Easy to Carry

What makes the LCR my favorite is how easy it is to carry. Whether I’m using a pocket holster or a slim waistband rig, the revolver disappears under my clothing. Its lightweight design and compact frame make it the kind of gun you can carry all day without noticing it. That’s a huge win for me because if a gun isn’t comfortable to carry, chances are you won’t carry it at all.
9. Reliable and Safe

The double-action-only trigger adds an extra layer of safety. The heavier trigger pull means it’s unlikely to fire unintentionally, especially with a quality holster covering the trigger guard. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially for new shooters or anyone worried about safe carry practices.
10. A Worthwhile Investment

Yes, the Ruger LCR .38+P comes with a price tag in the $575-$600 range, but in my opinion, it’s worth every penny. You’re getting a revolver that’s lightweight, reliable, and comfortable to shoot – qualities that are hard to find all in one package. For anyone serious about concealed carry, this revolver is a solid investment.
Why It’s My Favorite

After years of trying different carry guns, the Ruger LCR .38+P has earned its place as my go-to revolver. From the smooth trigger to the lightweight design, every feature feels intentional and well-executed. While I appreciate other guns in my collection, none strike the perfect balance of comfort, reliability, and performance quite like this one. For me, the Ruger LCR is more than just a revolver – it’s peace of mind in a compact, carry-friendly package.
Your Experiences

If you’ve tried the Ruger LCR .38+P, how does your experience compare? Are there features you’d like to see improved? What qualities do you prioritize most in a concealed carry firearm – comfort, reliability, or firepower? Why? Do you prefer revolvers or semi-automatic pistols for concealed carry? What influenced your decision?

Raised in a small Arizona town, Kevin grew up surrounded by rugged desert landscapes and a family of hunters. His background in competitive shooting and firearms training has made him an authority on self-defense and gun safety. A certified firearms instructor, Kevin teaches others how to properly handle and maintain their weapons, whether for hunting, home defense, or survival situations. His writing focuses on responsible gun ownership, marksmanship, and the role of firearms in personal preparedness.