The Ruger Downgrade & The SR9 Series

Published on January 28, 2020
Duration: 10:38

This video provides an in-depth review and comparison of Ruger's SR9 series pistols, particularly the SR9c, and contrasts them with other Ruger models and the Glock 19. The speaker, an experienced firearm enthusiast, discusses the historical pricing of the SR9c, its design evolution, and perceived shortcomings. Key points include the impact of the 'E-series' treatment on cost reduction, the ergonomics of different magazine options, and suggestions for a potential Gen 2 SR9. The review highlights the SR9 series' potential as strong competitors that Ruger may have under-supported.

Quick Summary

The Ruger SR9c has seen a significant price drop, now available for around $200, down from its original $350-$400 price point. This reduction is largely due to Ruger's 'E-series' treatment, which simplifies manufacturing with features like basic slide milling and a black-only finish to lower production costs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & First Handgun Purchase
  2. 00:21Post-Sandy Hook Market Conditions
  3. 00:48Reflecting on the Glock 19 Choice
  4. 00:54SR9c Price Drop Analysis
  5. 01:13Reasons for Price Drop: E-Series Treatment
  6. 01:24The Ruger 9E Explained
  7. 02:10SR9 & SR9c Current Availability & Price
  8. 02:20Cost-Saving Measures: Slide Finish
  9. 02:46Design Changes: End Plate
  10. 03:06Magazine Ergonomics: 10-Round Mag
  11. 03:48Magazine Ergonomics: 17-Round Mag
  12. 04:05Issues with 17-Round Magazines
  13. 04:25Missed Potential of the SR Series
  14. 04:34Ideal SR9 Pro Features
  15. 04:54Ergonomics vs. Ruger American & Security 9
  16. 05:03Ruger's Perceived Abandonment of SR Series
  17. 05:27Early Teething Issues & Publicity
  18. 05:45Ruger's Current Pistol Market Competitors
  19. 06:06Investment in the SR Series
  20. 06:11Additional Details: SR vs. Security 9 & American
  21. 06:34SR Series Features: Safeties & Disconnects
  22. 06:38Removing the Magazine Disconnect
  23. 06:44Magazine Disconnect Dangers
  24. 06:55Dislike for Security 9 & Ruger American
  25. 07:01Resurrecting the SR Series: Gen 2 Suggestions
  26. 07:06Gen 2 Suggestion 1: No Manual Safety
  27. 07:11Gen 2 Suggestion 2: No Loaded Chamber Indicator
  28. 07:23Gen 2 Suggestion 3: No Magazine Disconnect
  29. 07:31Gen 2 Suggestion 4: Standard Accessory Rail
  30. 07:39Gen 2 Suggestion 5: Better Sights
  31. 08:11SR Series Triggers
  32. 08:34First Shots with SR Series (9E)
  33. 08:40Gen 2 Suggestion: Threaded Barrel Option
  34. 08:42Aftermarket Support Limitations
  35. 08:50Ruger's Current Strategy: Security 9 Pro
  36. 09:08SR Series Potential vs. Current Offerings
  37. 09:29Conclusion: SR Series Potential
  38. 09:34Larabar Review (Outro)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has the Ruger SR9c fallen in price significantly?

The Ruger SR9c's price drop is largely due to Ruger applying an 'E-series' treatment, which simplifies manufacturing. This includes less complex slide milling, fewer serrations, a basic sight system, and a black-only finish, all aimed at reducing production costs and making the firearm more affordable.

What are the main differences between the Ruger SR9 and the 9E?

The Ruger 9E is an economy version of the full-size SR9. It features simpler slide milling, lacks front serrations, has simpler rear serrations, a basic sight system, and is only available in a black finish. The 9E is essentially a cost-reduced SR9.

What are the perceived drawbacks of the Ruger SR9 series magazines?

The 10-round magazine's finger rest extension is generally well-received, but the 17-round magazines, adapted from the full-size SR9, come with a sleeve that doesn't stay in place well. Without proper support, these larger magazines can lead to finger overhang and pinching during use.

What improvements would make the Ruger SR9 series a stronger competitor today?

For a potential Gen 2 SR9, suggestions include removing the manual safety and loaded chamber indicator, replacing the proprietary accessory rail with a standard 1913 Picatinny rail, and upgrading to factory high-visibility sights like tritium front posts. Eliminating the magazine disconnect is also recommended.

What are the issues with the magazine disconnect feature on Ruger firearms?

The magazine disconnect feature can be problematic, as dry-firing a Ruger firearm without a magazine inserted can potentially damage the firing pin. This is considered an unacceptable design flaw by many users and can be mitigated by removing the disconnect during disassembly.

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