Wonder 9's of the past the Ruger P Series - P85 and P95.

Published on December 8, 2022
Duration: 18:20

This video provides a detailed look at the Ruger P85 and P95 pistols, often referred to as 'Wonder Nines.' It covers their historical context, design evolution from investment-cast steel to polymer frames, and offers a step-by-step guide to field stripping both models. The presenter highlights their reliability and value as durable handguns suitable for various purposes.

Quick Summary

The Ruger P85 and P95, often called 'Wonder Nines,' were popular semi-automatic pistols from the 1980s and 90s. The P85 featured an investment-cast steel frame, while the P95 evolved to a lighter polymer frame with improved ergonomics. Both are known for their reliability and double-action/single-action operation, making them enduringly popular on the used market.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction to Wonder Nines
  2. 00:30The Glock's Impact
  3. 01:07Defining a Wonder Nine
  4. 01:41Ruger P Series Introduction
  5. 02:18Ruger P85 Overview
  6. 03:54P85 Operation and Features
  7. 04:53P85 Accuracy and Ergonomics
  8. 05:41P85 Controls and Safety
  9. 06:01P85 Value and Availability
  10. 06:28Ruger P95 Introduction
  11. 06:47P95 Design Changes (Polymer Frame)
  12. 07:04P95 Controls and Sights
  13. 07:30P95 Acceptance and Era
  14. 07:48P95 Accessory Rail
  15. 08:13P95 Action and Disassembly Prep
  16. 08:31P95 Magazine Details
  17. 08:47P95 Operation and Safety
  18. 09:14P95 Shootability and Preference
  19. 09:32P95 Modern Relevance
  20. 10:12Comparing P85 and P95 Packaging
  21. 10:24P85 Field Stripping
  22. 11:16P85 Slide Removal
  23. 11:44P85 Frame and Components
  24. 12:03P85 Drop Link Mechanism
  25. 12:11P85 Recoil Spring and Barrel
  26. 13:33P85 Reassembly and Function Check
  27. 14:03P85 Complete
  28. 14:10P95 Field Stripping Preparation
  29. 14:35P95 Magazine and Loader
  30. 14:38P95 Disassembly
  31. 15:13P95 Slide Removal
  32. 15:15P95 Components (Nested Springs, Captive Rod)
  33. 15:29P95 Action Type (Browning High Power Style)
  34. 15:43P95 Frame and Rails
  35. 15:52P95 Reassembly
  36. 16:31P95 Function Check
  37. 16:44Conclusion and Final Thoughts
  38. 16:52Viewer Engagement and Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What defined a 'Wonder Nine' handgun in the 1980s and 1990s?

A 'Wonder Nine' was a semi-automatic handgun typically chambered in 9mm, featuring a double-stack magazine for higher capacity, and operating in both double-action and single-action modes. These pistols were popular for their balance of firepower and shootability during that era.

How did the Ruger P95 differ from the earlier P85 model?

The Ruger P95 introduced a polymer frame, making it lighter and improving ergonomics over the P85's investment-cast steel frame. It also adopted a Browning High Power-style action and featured nested recoil springs, while both models offered ambidextrous controls.

Are Ruger P85 and P95 pistols still a good value today?

Yes, despite being out of production, Ruger P85 and P95 pistols are considered excellent value on the used market, often available for around $200-$300. They are praised for their reliability, durability, and shootability, making them solid choices for budget-conscious buyers.

What is the general process for field stripping a Ruger P85 or P95?

Field stripping involves ensuring the pistol is unloaded, removing the magazine, locking the slide to the rear, and then manipulating a specific pin or lever (ejector lock on P85, take-down pin on P95) to remove the slide from the frame, followed by removing the barrel and recoil assembly.

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