Ruger LCR .357

When we premiered Ruger’s polymer-framed LCR .38 snubbie back in March 2009, a lot of us figured a subsequent .357 version was pretty much a given. It was, and we recently got our hands on one. 

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The only real visual cue that you’re dealing with the .357 version is, naturally, the longer five-shot cylinder—distinctively fluted, as is that of the standard version (plus a ramped front sight). The weight difference is a scant 3.6 ounces, 17.10 vs. 131/2, thanks to the steel “upper” on the magnum version. The .357 LCR features Hogue Tamer monogrips—they were a nice touch on the original .38, but they’re considerably more important here if you intend on using magnums. And the use of magnum ammo is a real consideration. A lot of fans of two-inch (OK, 1.8-inch) revolvers don’t have any intention of going beyond Plus-P .38s (or standard-pressure loads, for that matter).

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