Ruger LCR .38 Special +P 1.87in 5-Rd Revolver, Hogue Grip

The Ruger LCR .38 Special +P 1.87in 5-Rd Revolver with Hogue Grip is a lightweight, compact snub-nose built for everyday carry and backup roles. This five-shot revolver pairs a short 1.87-inch barrel with a polymer fire-control housing and friction-reducing cam to deliver a smooth, consistent double-action trigger pull—no stacking, no surprises. At just over 13 ounces unloaded, it disappears in a pocket or ankle rig, and the Hogue Tamer Monogrip soaks up recoil from +P loads. If you need a reliable, low-maintenance revolver that won’t print or weigh you down, this is it.

Manufacturer	Ruger
Model	LCR .38 Special +P
Material	Stainless steel cylinder and barrel shroud, polymer fire-control housing (per manufacturer specs)
Compatibility	.38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition
Finish	Black matte (polymer frame), stainless steel cylinder
Weight	13.5 oz unloaded (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Friction-Reducing Cam – This patented system smooths out the double-action trigger stroke, breaking clean at around 9 lbs. Why it matters: No stacking or gritty pull means you stay on target for faster, more accurate follow-up shots under stress.
• Polymer Fire-Control Housing – Encases the trigger mechanism and reduces overall weight by nearly 30% compared to all-steel frames. Why it matters: You get a full-size revolver feel in a package that won’t drag down your belt or pocket.
• Hogue Tamer Monogrip – Overmolded rubber with a palm swell and cushioned backstrap. Why it matters: It tames snap from +P loads without adding bulk, so you can shoot a full cylinder without flinching.
• Short 1.87-Inch Barrel – Compact enough for deep concealment, yet the fixed sights and 5-shot cylinder deliver reliable hits inside 15 yards. Why it matters: It’s a dedicated close-range tool that won’t snag on draw.
• Corrosion-Resistant Materials – Stainless steel barrel and cylinder with a matte finish resist sweat and moisture. Why it matters: Daily carry means exposure to humidity and body oils—this gun won’t rust out on you.

Who It’s For

This revolver is built for EDC carriers who want a lightweight backup or primary deep-conceal piece. It’s also ideal for new shooters who prefer a simple point-and-shoot platform without safeties or slide manipulation. If you carry in a pocket holster, ankle rig, or belly band, the LCR’s sub-14-ounce weight and snag-free profile make it a no-brainer.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Ultra-lightweight at 13.5 oz—disappears in a pocket or ankle holster.
• Pro: Smooth, consistent DA trigger with no stacking, thanks to the friction-reducing cam.
• Pro: Hogue Tamer grip handles +P recoil better than any stock snub-nose grip I’ve tried.
• Con: Fixed sights are basic—good for defensive ranges but not precision work beyond 15 yards. You’ll want to practice with your specific load to know your point of aim.

Comparison: Ruger LCR vs. Smith & Wesson 642 vs. Taurus 856

Feature	Ruger LCR .38 +P	S&W 642 .38 +P	Taurus 856 .38 +P
Weight (unloaded)	13.5 oz	14.3 oz	22 oz
Capacity	5 rounds	5 rounds	6 rounds
Trigger Pull (DA)	~9 lbs (smooth)	~12 lbs (stacking common)	~10 lbs (gritty)
Grip	Hogue Tamer Monogrip	Standard rubber (often swapped)	Rubber (basic)
MSRP	$592	$489	$369

The Ruger LCR edges out the 642 with a smoother trigger and better grip out of the box. The Taurus 856 holds one more round but weighs nearly 9 oz more—too heavy for pocket carry. For an EDC revolver, the LCR’s weight-to-trigger ratio is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is the Ruger LCR .38 Special +P rated for +P ammunition?

Yes. Per Ruger’s specs, the LCR is rated for +P loads. The stainless steel cylinder and reinforced frame handle the extra pressure without issue. That said, I’d still practice mostly with standard .38 Special to keep wear minimal, and carry +P for defense.

What holsters work best with the Ruger LCR 1.87-inch barrel?

Most snub-nose holsters designed for a 2-inch barrel will fit. For pocket carry, try a pocket holster with a thumb break or a kydex IWB holster. The Hogue grip is slightly wider than stock, so check the holster’s width tolerance before buying.

How does the Ruger LCR compare to the Smith & Wesson 642?

The LCR is about 0.8 oz lighter and has a noticeably smoother trigger thanks to the friction-reducing cam. The 642 has a slightly lower price point, but many shooters end up swapping the grip and trigger springs. The LCR’s Hogue Tamer grip is better for recoil management right out of the box.

Can I use .38 Special wadcutter or semi-wadcutter ammo in the LCR?

Yes. The LCR’s cylinder chambers handle standard .38 Special wadcutters and semi-wadcutters without issue. The short barrel may reduce velocity a bit, but at close ranges they’re reliable and accurate.

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Related categories:
Revolvers | Everyday Carry Gear | Holsters

Last updated: April 2026