Ruger LCRx in .357mag?

Published on May 23, 2014
Duration: 2:29

The Ruger LCRx in .38 Special is recommended over a hypothetical .357 Magnum version due to weight and recoil considerations. For short barrels (<2 inches), .357 Magnum offers minimal ballistic advantage over .38 Special +P, with the latter providing a better balance of power and shootability. A .357 Magnum LCRx would necessitate a heavier steel frame, negating the LCR's primary appeal of being lightweight for concealed carry.

Quick Summary

In short-barreled revolvers (under 2 inches), .357 Magnum doesn't achieve full powder burn, limiting its advantage. .38 Special +P offers similar ballistics with less recoil and flash, making it ideal for lightweight concealed carry firearms like the Ruger LCRx.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Ruger LCRx .357 Magnum Question
  2. 00:37Ballistics: .357 Mag vs .38 Spl +P in Short Barrels
  3. 01:13Design: Weight & Material Differences
  4. 01:41Conclusion: Why .38 Spl LCRx is Recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the ballistic differences between .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P in short-barreled revolvers like the Ruger LCRx?

In revolvers with barrels under two inches, .357 Magnum often fails to achieve full powder burn, significantly reducing its velocity and energy advantage. .38 Special +P ammunition, designed for these shorter barrels, can deliver nearly equivalent ballistic performance with less recoil and muzzle flash.

Why is the Ruger LCRx in .38 Special preferred for concealed carry over a potential .357 Magnum version?

The .38 Special LCRx utilizes a lightweight aluminum unibody frame, making it ideal for easy carry. A .357 Magnum variant would necessitate a heavier stainless steel frame to handle the increased pressure, negating the LCR's primary benefit of being exceptionally light.

Is a .357 Magnum revolver always more powerful than a .38 Special?

While .357 Magnum is inherently a more powerful cartridge, the difference is less pronounced in firearms with very short barrels (under 2 inches). Factors like barrel length, powder burn rate, and ammunition type mean that .38 Special +P can offer comparable performance in these specific compact handgun scenarios.

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