S

INSTRUCTION
MANUAL
FOR

RUGER ®

LC9 AND LC380 ® ®

LIGHTWEIGHT COMPACT PISTOLS

– Rugged, Reliable Firearms® –

READ THE INSTRUCTIONS AND
WARNINGS IN THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY
BEFORE USING THIS FIREARM
© 2022 Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

This manual may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written
permission of Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

For Service on This Model Please Call:

(336) 949-5200 (See p. 33)
THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL SHOULD ALWAYS ACCOMPANY THIS FIREARM AND BE
TRANSFERRED WITH IT UPON CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP, OR WHEN THE FIREARM IS LOANED
OR PRESENTED TO ANOTHER PERSON

Ruger.com
CP-CM 11/2022 C R7
 State-By-State Warnings
Certain states require by law that their own specified warning notices
in larger-than-normal type be conspicuously included by the
manufacturer, distributor or retailer with firearms sold in that state.
Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. sells its products in compliance with
applicable laws and regulations. Because our products may be sold in
these states, we include the following:
California:
WARNING
“Firearms must be handled responsibly and securely stored to prevent
access by children and other unauthorized users. California has strict
laws pertaining to firearms, and you may be fined or imprisoned if you
fail to comply with them. Visit the Web site of the California Attorney
General at https://oag.ca.gov/firearms for information on firearm laws
applicable to you and how you can comply.
Prevent child access by always keeping guns locked away and unloaded
when not in use. If you keep a loaded firearm where a child obtains and
improperly uses it, you may be fined or sent to prison.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please call the
national suicide prevention lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).”

ADVERTENCIA
“Las armas de fuego deben manipularse de manera responsable y segura
para evitar el acceso de niños y otros usuarios no autorizados. California
tiene leyes estrictas relacionadas con armas de fuego, y usted puede ser
multado o encarcelado si no las cumple. Visite el sitio web del
Procurador General de California en https://oag.ca.gov/firearms para
obtener información sobre las leyes de armas de fuego que le son
aplicables y cómo puede cumplirlas.
A los niños los atraen las armas de fuego y las pueden hacer funcionar.
Ellos pueden causarses lesions graves y la muerte. Evite que los niños
tengan accesso a las armas de fuego guardándolas siempre con llave y
descargadas cuando no las esté utilizando. Si usted tiene un arma de
fuego cargada en un lugar en que un niño tiene acceso a ella y la usa
indebidamente, le pueden dar una multa o enviarlo a la carcel.
Si usted o alguien que conoce está pensando en suicidarse, llame a la
línea nacional de prevención del suicidio al 1-800-273-TALK (8255).”

2
Connecticut:
“UNLAWFUL STORAGE OF A LOADED FIREARM MAY
RESULT IN IMPRISONMENT OR FINE.”
Florida:
“IT IS UNLAWFUL, AND PUNISHABLE BY
IMPRISONMENT AND FINE, FOR ANY ADULT TO
STORE OR LEAVE A FIREARM IN ANY PLACE WITHIN
THE REACH OR EASY ACCESS OF A MINOR UNDER 18
YEARS OF AGE OR TO KNOWINGLY SELL OR
OTHERWISE TRANSFER OWNERSHIP OR POSSESSION
OF A FIREARM TO A MINOR OR A PERSON OF
UNSOUND MIND.”
Maine:
“ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD IS A
CRIME. IF YOU LEAVE A FIREARM AND AMMUNITION
WITHIN EASY ACCESS OF A CHILD, YOU MAY BE
SUBJECT TO FINE, IMPRISONMENT OR BOTH. KEEP
FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION SEPARATE. KEEP
FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION LOCKED UP. USE
TRIGGER LOCKS.”
Maryland:
“WARNING: Children can operate firearms which may cause
death or serious injury. It is a crime to store or leave a loaded
firearm in any location where an individual knew or should
have known that an unsupervised minor would gain access to
the firearm. Store your firearm responsibly!”

3
Massachusetts:
“WARNING FROM THE MASSACHUSETTS ATTORNEY
GENERAL: This handgun is not equipped with a device that
fully blocks use by unauthorized users. More than 200,000
firearms like this one are stolen from their owners every year in
the United States. In addition, there are more than a thousand
suicides each year by younger children and teenagers who get
access to firearms. Hundreds more die from accidental
discharge. It is likely that many more children sustain serious
wounds, or inflict such wounds accidentally on others. In order
to limit the chance of such misuse, it is imperative that you keep
this weapon locked in a secure place and take other steps
necessary to limit the possibility of theft or accident. Failure to
take reasonable preventive steps may result in innocent lives
being lost, and in some circumstances may result in your
liability for these deaths.”
“IT IS UNLAWFUL TO STORE OR KEEP A FIREARM,
RIFLE, SHOTGUN OR MACHINE GUN IN ANY PLACE
UNLESS THAT WEAPON IS EQUIPPED WITH A TAMPER-
RESISTANT SAFETY DEVICE OR IS STORED OR KEPT IN
A SECURELY LOCKED CONTAINER.”
New Jersey:
“IT IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE TO LEAVE A LOADED
FIREARM WITHIN EASY ACCESS OF A MINOR.”
New York:
“THE USE OF A LOCKING DEVICE OR SAFETY LOCK IS
ONLY ONE ASPECT OF RESPONSIBLE FIREARM
STORAGE. FOR INCREASED SAFETY, FIREARMS
SHOULD BE STORED UNLOADED AND LOCKED IN A
LOCATION THAT IS BOTH SEPARATE FROM THEIR
AMMUNITION AND INACCESSIBLE TO CHILDREN AND
UNAUTHORIZED PERSONS.”

4
North Carolina:
“IT IS UNLAWFUL TO STORE OR LEAVE A FIREARM
THAT CAN BE DISCHARGED IN A MANNER THAT A
REASONABLE PERSON SHOULD KNOW IS
ACCESSIBLE TO A MINOR.”

Texas:
“IT IS UNLAWFUL TO STORE, TRANSPORT, OR
ABANDON AN UNSECURED FIREARM IN A PLACE
WHERE CHILDREN ARE LIKELY TO BE AND CAN
OBTAIN ACCESS TO THE FIREARM.”

Wisconsin:
“IF YOU LEAVE A LOADED FIREARM WITHIN THE
REACH OR EASY ACCESS OF A CHILD YOU MAY BE
FINED OR IMPRISONED OR BOTH IF THE CHILD
IMPROPERLY DISCHARGES, POSSESSES, OR EXHIBITS
THE FIREARM.”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Please check with your licensed retailer or state police for
additional warnings which may be required by local law or
regulation. Such regulations change constantly, and local
authorities are in the best position to advise you on such legal
matters.

5
 FIREARMS SAFETY IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
SAFETY MUST BE THE FIRST AND CONSTANT
CONSIDERATION OF EVERY PERSON WHO HANDLES
FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION.

This instruction manual is designed to assist you in learning how to use

and care for your RUGER® LC9® or LC380® pistol properly. Please
contact us if you have any questions.
Only when you are certain you fully understand the manual and can
properly carry out its instructions should you practice loading, unloading,
etc. with live ammunition. If you have any doubts about your ability to
handle or use a particular type of firearm safely, you should seek
supervised instruction. Such personalized instruction often is available
from local firearm retailers, gun clubs or police departments. If none of
these sources can help, visit nra.org or write to the following address:

National Rifle Association

11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, VA 22030-7400

The person possessing a firearm has a full-time job. You cannot guess; you
cannot forget. You must know how to use your firearm safely. Do not use
any firearm without having a complete understanding of its particular
characteristics and safe use. Remember: There is no such thing as a
foolproof firearm.

6
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
State-By-State Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Nomenclature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Locking Device Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
General Information and Mechanical Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Ammunition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Operation of Manual Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Operation of Internal Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Operation of Loaded Chamber Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Operation of Magazine Disconnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
To Load and Fire (with magazine) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
To Unload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
To Extract and Eject a Chambered Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
To Clear a Malfunction (“Jam” or “Misfire”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
To Minimize Malfunctions (“Jams” or “Misfires”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 - 27
Reassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Check Your Pistol’s Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Magazine Inspection and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Care and Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Service and Parts Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Shipping Firearms for Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Ordering Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Exploded View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
The Basic Rules of Safe Firearms Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

“Ruger” is a registered U.S. trademark.

WARNINGS OF GREAT IMPORTANCE ARE

FOUND ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES:
Locking Devices 9 Unloading 20
Alterations 11 Slide Retraction 21
Lead Exposure 13 Malfunctions 22
Ammunition 13 Disassembly 23
Manual Safety 14 Lubrication 31
Loaded Chamber 16 Storage 32
Magazine Disconnect 17 Shipping 33
Firing 19 Parts Purchasers 34
Handling 19
OTHER CAUTIONS AND WARNINGS APPEAR
THROUGHOUT THE MANUAL.
7
 NOMENCLATURE
Slide’s open top design minimizes Dovetailed rear
possibility of jamming, enables shooter to sight adjustable
clear any malfunction easily by hand. for windage.
Cartridges can be loaded singly if desired. Flush profile hammer
Dovetailed front is visible in the ready-
sight. to-fire, semi-cocked
position.
Takedown pin.

Manual safety.

Slide Hold Open

Frame is a rigid one
allows the slide to be
piece nylon grip
locked to the rear to
frame reinforced with
positively view the
long glass fiber.
cartridge chamber.
The hold open is
spring loaded
downward so it is
Magazine latch permits released by pulling
positive retention and quick the slide slightly
removal of magazine. rearward.

Pistol grip is checkered

for a secure grip.

Loaded chamber indicator.

Extractor is designed for reliable Slide locks open after
extraction of cartridges and fired last round fired.
cases from chamber.

Internal, key-
activated, lock.

Single-strike, double-action only

mechanism provides that cocking and
firing can be accomplished with a
single pull of the trigger.

Checkered back and front straps

for secure grip.

8
 LOCKING DEVICE
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING – USE OF LOCKING DEVICES

• Always keep your firearm pointed in a safe
direction, including when you are installing or
removing your locking device.
• Always verify that your firearm is completely
unloaded before installing your locking
device.
• Do not install locking devices in the trigger
guard unless the instructions specifically
require it; otherwise, always keep your fingers
and locking device outside the trigger guard
during device installation and removal.
• Store firearms, ammunition and keys
separately and securely, away from children
and careless adults; do not store your firearm
with the keys in the locking device.
• Do not attempt to work the action of your
firearm with the locking device in place; this
may damage your firearm.
Do not store keys
• While locking devices are an important aid to
in lock. security measures, they are not a substitute for
safe firearm handling and proper storage.
Remember that any mechanical device can be
bypassed with enough time, knowledge,
determination and equipment.

LOCKING DEVICES MUST BE

USED SAFELY AND
RESPONSIBLY

It is important to use the locking device on your Ruger® firearm when

the firearm is stored or immediate use is not planned.
Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and your fingers outside the
trigger guard at all times!

9
To Install the Factory-Supplied Locking Device:
1. Remove the magazine from your pistol.
2. Open the action completely, and verify that the firearm is completely
unloaded and contains no cartridges or cartridge cases!
Use the slide stop to keep the action open during installation of the
locking device.
3. Insert the cable directly into your pistol as shown in Figure 1.
4. To lock: With the key turned to the farthest clockwise position, insert
the loose end of the cable into the lock. Turn the key
counterclockwise and remove the key.
5. Once the lock is securely closed, pull firmly on the lock to test the
connection and be sure it is locked. Do not leave or store your firearm
with the key in the lock! Store your locked unloaded firearm and the
key in secure, separate locations, away from ammunition, children,
and unauthorized adults.

Figure 1
Correct installation of the lock on
Ruger® LC9® & LC380® pistols.

10
 FIREARMS ARE DANGEROUS WEAPONS.
READ THE INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS
IN THIS MANUAL THOROUGHLY AND
CAREFULLY BEFORE USING.

WARNING - ALTERATIONS
This product was designed to function
properly in its original condition.
Alterations can make it unsafe. Do not
alter any part or add or substitute parts or
accessories not made or sold by Sturm,
Ruger & Co., Inc.

DO NOT ALTER ANY FIREARM

GENERAL INFORMATION
AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The RUGER® LC9® and LC380® are compact, single-strike, double-action
only, magazine-fed, recoil-operated pistols. The LC9® is chambered for the 9mm
cartridge, and the LC380® is chambered for the 380 Auto cartridge. The LC9®
and LC380® pistols incorporate a different “link-less” design in the barrel
locking/unlocking system than earlier Ruger P-Series pistols, and feature a
streamlined slide, and glass reinforced nylon and aluminum subframe grip frame.
The following are features with which users should be thoroughly familiar:
Action:The strong locked breech action of these pistols utilizes a tilting barrel
design in which the barrel and slide are locked together at the moment of firing.
After firing, the barrel and slide recoil to the rear a short distance while securely
locked together. After this initial movement, the barrel is cammed downward from
its locked position, permitting full recoil of the slide and the extraction and
ejection of the spent cartridge case. Upon return of the slide to its forward position
by the recoil spring, the barrel is cammed back upward into its locked position in
the slide.
The user of this or any autoloading pistol must always remember that when fired,
it automatically reloads and recocks itself, so that simply pulling the trigger will
fire the pistol again. Therefore, an autoloading pistol user must be particularly
conscious to always keep the pistol pointed in a safe direction.
Slide Hold Open: This allows the user to manually lock the slide open. Note: when
the last shot has been fired and the magazine is empty, the slide hold open
automatically holds the slide open. If a loaded magazine is inserted in the pistol
when the slide is closed and the slide is then retracted fully, the slide hold open
will not automatically hold open the slide. The user can actuate the slide hold
open mechanism to hold the slide open at any time by retracting the slide and
pushing the slide hold open up.

11
The slide hold open can be released by drawing back slightly on the slide. When
the slide is released, it will move forward under pressure from the recoil spring.
The slide hold open is held in place by a spring. Therefore, when there is a loaded
magazine in place and the pistol is jarred, the slide can fly forward and chamber
a cartridge. For this reason and as an essential safety practice, the user should
always be careful to keep fingers away from the trigger, and always keep the
pistol pointed in a safe direction.
Magazines: Use only GENUINE RUGER® FACTORY magazines designated for
your firearm. The use of incorrect magazines in any pistol will result in
malfunctions.

DAMAGED, NON-STANDARD, OR IMPROPERLY

ASSEMBLED MAGAZINES SHOULD NOT BE USED.
THEY CAN CAUSE THE PISTOL TO MALFUNCTION.

AMMUNITION
The RUGER® LC9® pistols are chambered for the 9mm cartridge. Do not
attempt to load any other cartridges into the magazine or chamber of the pistol.
The RUGER® LC380® pistols are chambered for the 380 Auto cartridge. Do
not attempt to load any other cartridges into the magazine or chamber of the
pistol.
The RUGER® LC9® and LC380® pistols are compatible with standard
factory ammunition loaded to U.S. Industry Standards, including hollow-point
loads loaded in brass or aluminum cases. No 9mm or 380 Auto ammunition
manufactured in accordance with NATO, U.S., SAAMI, or CIP standards is known
to be beyond the design limits or known not to function in these pistols.
Although the RUGER® LC9® pistol is capable of functioning with +P
ammunition, a steady diet of +P ammunition will shorten the endurance life of
these pistols. You should never shoot 9mm +P+ ammunition in your RUGER®
LC9®. There are no SAAMI or CIP pressure limits on 9mm +P+ and use of this
ammunition could result in serious injury. Do not use “+P+” ammunition.
Note on the LC380®: Do not use “+P” ammunition.

Note on the LC9®: Do not use “+P+” ammunition.

AMMUNITION (CARTRIDGES) NOTICE

WE SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DAMAGE
OR INJURY WHATSOEVER OCCURRING IN CONNECTION WITH, OR AS
A RESULT OF, THE USE IN RUGER® FIREARMS OF FAULTY, OR NON-
STANDARD, OR “RE-MANUFACTURED”, OR HAND-LOADED
(RELOADED) AMMUNITION, OR OF CARTRIDGES OTHER THAN THOSE
FOR WHICH THE FIREARM WAS ORIGINALLY CHAMBERED.

12
 WARNING - LEAD EXPOSURE
Discharging firearms in poorly
ventilated areas, cleaning firearms, or
handling ammunition may result in
exposure to lead and other substances
known to the State of California to
cause birth defects, reproductive harm,
and other serious physical injury. Have
adequate ventilation at all times. Wash
hands thoroughly after exposure.

SHOOTING OR CLEANING FIREARMS

MAY EXPOSE YOU TO LEAD

WARNING - AMMUNITION
Use only new, factory ammunition of the
correct caliber.
Death, serious injury, and damage can result
from the wrong ammunition, bore
obstructions, powder overloads or incorrect
cartridge components.
Always wear shooting glasses and hearing
protection.

IMPROPER AMMUNITION
DESTROYS FIREARMS

OPERATION OF MANUAL SAFETY

The LC9® and LC380® are equipped with a manual safety lever.
To engage the manual safety, point the pistol in a safe direction. Move the safety
lever upward fully to the “safe” position. Note that the pistol must be cocked to
engage the safety.
When the safety is moved fully upward to the “safe” position, the red oval on the
left side of the frame insert will be fully covered by the left safety lever and a
white oval will be visible. If any red is showing, the safety is not in the “safe”
position. Do not attempt to engage the safety while pulling the trigger.

13
The safety mechanism provides that the trigger cannot be pulled unless the
safety is disengaged. Like the 1911 pistols, the manual safety lever locks the slide
shut, ensuring that the pistol will be ready to fire when the safety is disengaged.
To disengage the manual safety, point the pistol in a safe direction and push the
safety lever fully downward. The red oval signifies that the safety is disengaged
and the pistol is ready to fire.
Additionally, the pistol has a separate firing pin block which will not allow the firing
pin to move forward and contact the cartridge until the operator pulls the trigger
with the safety off (in its “fire” position).
The safety should be in its “safe” position at all times except when the user is
deliberately positioned to fire at a selected target. When the safety is in the “fire”
position (safety lever down) the red oval is exposed just above the safety lever. See
Figures 2 and 3, below, which illustrate the two positions of the safety.

“SAFE” POSITION “FIRE” POSITION

Red oval exposed

Figure 2 Figure 3

WARNING - MANUAL SAFETY

Placing the safety in an intermediate position
between “safe” and “fire” can result in the user
thinking the pistol is in a safe or fire position
when it is not. Pulling the trigger with the safety
in an intermediate position may cause the pistol
to fire. Therefore, always move the safety fully to
its intended position and then check to be sure
it is where you want it to be. Unless the red oval
is fully covered by the safety lever, the safety is
not “ON.” Unless the red oval is fully visible, the
pistol is not absolutely ready to fire.

NEVER PUT SAFETY 1/2 ON

14
 OPERATION OF INTERNAL LOCK
Never rely upon any safety mechanism or mechanical device to justify unsafe or
careless handling of a firearm. When securing your pistol or to prevent
unauthorized access, you should completely unload the pistol and store it in a
firearm safe or use the key-operated external locking device supplied with your
pistol. (See Page 9.) However, for added security, and to comply with certain
state and local laws, your RUGER® LC9® and LC380® pistols are also
equipped with an internal lock. When actuated, this internal lock will secure the
pistol’s manual safety in the "on" or "safe" position.
Before activating the internal lock on your pistol, first visually inspect the
chamber and magazine to verify that they are empty and do not contain any
cartridges.
To activate the internal lock, place the manual safety in the "on" or "safe"
position (see Figure 2, p. 14). (Note that the pistol must be cocked to engage the
safety.) Next, place the internal lock key (supplied with your pistol) into the
internal lock keyway. (See “Nomenclature,” p. 8.) Rotate the key clockwise
(about 1/4 of a rotation from the fully unlocked position) until it stops. (See
Figure 4.) Remove the key and verify that the internal lock is engaged by
attempting to move the safety to the "off" or "fire" position. If the internal lock is
engaged, the trigger will move freely and will not function.
To deactivate the internal lock, place the internal lock key into the internal lock
keyway (see “Nomenclature,” p. 8) and rotate the key counterclockwise (about
1/4 turn from the fully locked position) until it stops. (See Figure 4.)
Be sure to store the internal lock key in a secure location, away from children
and careless adults. Do not store your firearm with the key in the internal lock
keyway. Never lock a loaded firearm – always unload the firearm before locking.

To engage
the internal
lock, rotate
the key
clockwise 1/4
of a rotation.

To deactivate,
rotate the key
counter-
clockwise 1/4
of a rotation.
NOTE: With internal lock engaged,
trigger will move freely and will not
function. Figure 4

15
 OPERATION OF
LOADED CHAMBER INDICATOR
You should always treat every firearm as though it is loaded and always keep the
muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Never rely upon any safety or mechanical
device to justify unsafe or careless firearm handling. In order to assist you in
determining the presence of a cartridge in the chamber of your RUGER®
LC9® or LC380® pistols, and to comply with state laws, theses pistols are
equipped with a loaded chamber indicator. The indicator appears on the top of
the slide. (See “Nomenclature,” p. 8.)
When the chamber is empty, the loaded chamber indicator should be flush with
the top of the slide. (See Figure 5A, below.)
When the chamber is loaded, the forward portion of the loaded chamber
indicator should protrude from the top of the slide. When the chamber contains
a cartridge, a red bar should be visible on either side of the loaded chamber
indicator. (See Figure 5B, below.)

OPERATION OF LOADED CHAMBER INDICATOR

Figure 5A
Indicator
Flush
With Top

Chamber Empty
Indicator Figure 5B
Protrudes “Loaded
From When Up”
Top -
Red Bar
Visible

Cartridge in Chamber
NEVER RELY ON YOUR MEMORY OR ANY LOADED CHAMBER
INDICATOR TO KNOW IF A FIREARM IS LOADED. ANY
MECHANICAL DEVICE CAN FAIL. ALWAYS VISUALLY CHECK THE
CHAMBER BY RETRACTING THE SLIDE AND EXAMINING THE CHAMBER
TO BE SURE WHETHER IT IS EMPTY OR LOADED.

16
 OPERATION OF MAGAZINE DISCONNECT
Your RUGER® LC9® or LC380® pistols are equipped with a magazine
disconnect. This device prevents firing if the magazine is removed from the
pistol. You will not be able to use your pistol as a single loader (unless you place
one cartridge in the magazine and insert it into the pistol) or to fire the pistol
with the magazine out of the pistol.

REMEMBER THAT A ROUND MAY STILL BE IN THE CHAMBER AND

THAT THE PISTOL MAY STILL BE LOADED EVEN IF THE MAGAZINE IS
REMOVED. AS SOON AS AN EMPTY MAGAZINE IS INSERTED, A
ROUND IN THE CHAMBER CAN BE FIRED BY PULLING THE TRIGGER.
BE CAREFUL! AS ALWAYS, YOU SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THE MAGAZINE
DISCONNECT OR ANY OTHER MECHANICAL DEVICE OR SAFETY TO JUSTIFY
CARELESS OR UNSAFE HANDLING OF ANY FIREARM.

Don’t rely on your memory or the word of others to know if a firearm or

magazine is loaded. Visually inspect the magazine and the chamber to be certain.

TO LOAD AND FIRE (WITH MAGAZINE)

Practice this important aspect of safe firearm handling with an unloaded pistol
until you can perform each of the steps described below with skill and
confidence. But before you do anything with the pistol, first read completely
through this manual.
1. Be certain the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction. (See “The Basic Rules of
Safe Firearms Handling,” p. 38.)
2. Press the magazine latch and remove the magazine from the frame.
NOTE: The magazine is designed to fall free of the frame when the pistol is
held in the normal firing position, but you should always prevent possible
damage to the magazine by not letting it drop to the ground unless rapid
reloading is absolutely necessary.
3. For the LC9®, place seven (7) or fewer 9mm cartridges into the magazine
from the top.
For the LC380®, place seven (7) or fewer 380 Auto cartridges into the
magazine from the top.
4. Insert the magazine into the frame, taking care that the magazine is locked
in place by the magazine latch. Slamming the magazine into the frame
forcibly is not necessary.

17
5. Hold the pistol firmly in the shooting hand but do not touch the trigger.
Keep the pistol pointed in a safe direction. With the thumb and forefinger of
the other hand grasp the top of the slide and pull the slide to the rear as far
as it will go (see Figure 6, below). Use care to not place any part of your hand
in front of the muzzle (see “Slide Retraction Warning,” p. 21). When released,
the slide will fly forward to strip the top cartridge from the magazine and
chamber it. The hammer automatically moves to the semi-cocked position as
the slide moves forward.
WARNING: The pistol is ready for instant use when the trigger is pulled once
the slide moves fully forward. Be careful!

Keep Hand Away From Muzzle!

Figure 6
Retracting the slide.

6. Engage the safety by pushing the lever up until it clicks into the cut in the
slide.
7. If the pistol is not to be used immediately, the magazine should be removed
and the chamber unloaded.
8. The pistol is ready for instant use. When the pistol is in the “semi-cocked”
mode, the first shot can be fired double-action by pulling the trigger all the
way to the rear, which fully cocks and releases the hammer and then fires the
pistol. Subsequent shots are fired in the same way by releasing and then
pulling the trigger until the magazine is empty, the hammer being semi-
cocked by the slide as it recoils from each shot. After a shot is fired, the
trigger must be allowed to move fully forward. If the trigger is pulled before
the trigger mechanism fully resets (two “clicks”) the hammer may or may not
fire the cartridge.

18
 WARNING - FIRING
The slide automatically opens and shuts
quickly while firing. Keep face and hands
away from rear. Hot brass is ejected
quickly and can burn you. Always wear
shooting glasses, hat with a brim, and hearing
protection.

SLIDE OPENS FAST -

HOT BRASS EJECTED

9. Immediately following the firing of a shot, and if a subsequent shot is not to

be fired at once, remove the magazine and lock the slide back using the slide
hold open. Be sure the chamber is empty. If the slide is shut, the shooter
should always assume that there is a cartridge in the chamber! Don’t rely on
your memory to know if a firearm or magazine is loaded. With the pistol
pointed in a safe direction, visually inspect the magazine and chamber.

WARNING - HANDLING
Do not load the pistol until you are ready to use it, and
unload it immediately when you have completed
shooting. (See “Unloading Warning” on page 20.)
If dropped or struck, the pistol may fire. Keep chamber
empty unless actually firing!
For maximum safety when carrying the pistol with a
loaded magazine in place, the chamber should be
empty, the slide should be closed and safety engaged. If
placed into a holster, check it to be sure that the slide
is not retracted far enough to chamber a cartridge from
the magazine.
The user should never depend on any mechanical
device to justify careless handling or permitting the
pistol to point in an unsafe direction. The shooter
should always be alert to the possibility of accidental
discharge. The only absolutely safe pistol is one in
which the slide is open, the chamber is empty, and
there is no magazine in the firearm.

ANY FIREARM
MAY FIRE IF DROPPED

19
 WARNING - UNLOADING
Removing the magazine does not unload pistol! To
unload, first remove magazine, then pull slide to rear,
eject chambered cartridge, and visually inspect
chamber to be sure it is empty. Always point the
pistol in a safe direction when loading or unloading.
Removing the magazine should prevent the pistol
from firing – but never rely on this or any other
mechanical safety device to justify careless handling
of any firearm.

REMOVING MAGAZINE
DOES NOT UNLOAD CHAMBER

TO UNLOAD
WARNING: This sequence must be followed exactly as outlined. Failure to do so
can result in the chamber being unintentionally loaded with a live cartridge!
1. The muzzle of the pistol must be pointing in a safe direction at all times, and
fingers should be outside of the trigger guard.
2. Remove the magazine from the pistol by pushing in on the magazine latch.
REMEMBER that even though the magazine has been removed, a live round
remaining in the chamber can still be fired (see “Unloading Warning,” above).
3. Hold the pistol firmly and grasp the slide. Retract the slide to its rearmost
position briskly to extract and eject any chambered cartridge. Always double
check visually that the chamber, breech-face, and the interior of the frame
are clear of any live rounds. When the slide is fully retracted, push upward on
the slide hold open, then allow the slide to move forward until it comes to
rest with the rear projection of the slide hold open resting in the notch on
the lower left side of the slide.

CORRECT UNLOADING SEQUENCE

20
 WARNING - SLIDE RETRACTION

The slide should always be pulled

rearward (“retracted”) by pulling the
rear portion of the slide. Always keep
fingers away from trigger!

Never put any part of your hands or

body over the muzzle while retracting
the slide for loading, unloading,
inspection, or clearing a malfunction.

KEEP HANDS
AWAY FROM MUZZLE AND
FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER
WHEN RETRACTING THE SLIDE

4. To close the slide, again check to be sure the chamber and breech-face are empty.
Pull the slide to its rearmost postion and release it. The slide will snap forward.
Keep fingers out of ejection port on top of slide!
5. If the magazine contains cartridges, they can be removed by sliding each cartridge
forward and out of magazine, one at a time, until the magazine is empty.
6. Push empty (unloaded) magazine into frame until magazine latch locks it in
place.

TO EXTRACT AND
EJECT A CHAMBERED CARTRIDGE
When the pistol is fired, the same gas pressure that drives the bullet forward also acts
through the cartridge case to push the slide to the rear. The action causes extraction
and ejection of the fired cartridge case. If the shooter wishes to eject a chambered
cartridge manually, follow the procedure “To Unload,” p. 20. When the slide is
operated by hand, there can be a failure to extract the cartridge from the chamber, or
a failure to eject the cartridge clear of the pistol. These failures usually are the result
of the slide not being pulled rearward vigorously. The firearm user must:
1. Always visually check the chamber and the breech-face after opening the slide to
eject a chambered cartridge. If the slide is not vigorously retracted when being
operated by hand, the extracted cartridge can be “ejected” into the magazine-well
of the grip frame or remain held to the breech-face by the extractor.
2. Thoroughly clean the chamber and the extractor as often as necessary.

21
If an empty magazine is in the pistol when the slide is being hand retracted to
extract a cartridge, the cartridge may drop on top of the magazine or remain
held to the breech-face by the extractor. Then when the slide goes forward, the
cartridge will be chambered again! Remember — always remove the magazine
before clearing the chamber, and visually ensure that no cartridges remain in the
firearm.

TO CLEAR A MALFUNCTION
(“JAM” or “MISFIRE”)
1. Be certain the muzzle is continually pointed in a safe direction.
2. If the misfire is the result of a cartridge not firing or unusual report (either
louder or quieter than normal), keep the pistol pointed in a safe direction for
30 seconds prior to ejecting the chambered round or retracting the slide.
3. If possible, remove the magazine. It may be necessary to manually remove a
jammed cartridge that has only been partially stripped from the magazine. If
so, use extreme care. Lock the slide open with the slide hold open before
attempting to clear the jam. Drawing the slide fully to the rear may bring the
jammed cartridge along. Keep your face away from the ejection port during
this operation. When attempting to clear a jam, use only wood “tools” so that
the cartridge will not be damaged or the primer ignited. A 3/16” wooden
dowel with a point on one end is useful.
4. Visually check to make sure that all cartridges have been removed from the
pistol. Safely dispose of any cartridges involved in a malfunction incident. Do
not use damaged ammunition in any firearm.
5. Using a cleaning rod, inspect the bore and chamber to ensure that they are
not obstructed. Failure to detect and correctly remove a bore obstruction
can result in serious injury!

WARNING - MALFUNCTIONS
Any autoloading pistol may occasionally
malfunction. If a cartridge hangs up, jams, or
binds when being chambered, do not attempt to
force it into the chamber by pushing or striking
the slide. Carefully remove it.
Most failures of a cartridge to feed or to chamber
properly are caused by a damaged magazine,
incorrect firearm handling, insufficient
lubrication, or improper ammunition.
Whatever the cause, the user of the pistol must,
above all, recognize that any cartridge jam can
result in a potentially very dangerous situation of
a cartridge discharging before it is properly
chambered. If this happens, the cartridge case
may rupture and its fragments fly out of the
ejection port of the pistol with sufficient force to
cause serious injury. Always wear shooting
glasses!

HITTING PRIMER
CAN BURST CARTRIDGE
22
 TO MINIMIZE MALFUNCTIONS
(“JAMS” or “MISFIRES”)
1. If it appears that the jam was caused by the type of ammunition being used,
try another brand, type, or lot number. Remember — use only factory
ammunition of the correct caliber.
2. If changing ammunition does not at once eliminate malfunctions, then the
following steps should be taken:
a. Thoroughly clean the pistol, paying particular attention to the removal of
accumulated grease and dirt. Use a bristle brush and solvent to remove
grease and fouling from the breech-face, extractor, chamber, and feed
ramp area immediately behind the chamber.
b. Check to be sure that the magazine spring firmly returns the magazine
follower to the top of the magazine.
c. Check the magazine lips to be certain that they are free of nicks and burrs
and that they are not deformed or cracked.
d. Remove excess oil and solvent from all cleaned components, load the
magazine, and try the pistol again. Make sure you are following the
correct loading and firing sequence as described in this manual.
e. If none of the above steps is effective, try a different magazine of Ruger
manufacture. If a new magazine does not function correctly, return the
pistol and magazine to the Ruger Customer Service Department. (See
“Shipping Firearms For Repair” on page 33.)
f. Alterations to the pistol or use of non-Ruger magazines and accessories
may cause malfunctions. See “Alteration Warning” on page 11.

DISASSEMBLY
Be sure pistol is unloaded!

WARNING – DISASSEMBLY

3
Always unload a firearm
before cleaning, lubrication,
2 disassembly or assembly.

1
UNLOAD BEFORE DISASSEMBLY

23
1. Keep pistol pointed in a Figure 7
safe direction. Press the
magazine latch and
withdraw the magazine
from butt of pistol (see
Figure 7).

2. Pull slide to the rear and Figure 8

lock in the open position
by pushing upward on the
slide hold open.
(See Figure 8)

Keep Hand Away From Muzzle!

3. Inspect the chamber and Figure 9

verify that it is empty (see
Figure 9).

24
 4. Retract the slide slightly Figure 10
and release it (see
Figure 10). This will 1
disengage the slide stop
and allow the slide to 2
move fully forward.

5. Using a finger or a “soft” tool, push the takedown plate down (see Figure 11A)
to expose the takedown pin (see Figure 11B).

Takedown pin
exposed.

Figure 11A Figure 11B

6. The slide must be pushed back approximately 1/16” before you can insert the
Ruger key into the slot on the right side of the frame (see Figure 12A). Now push
the takedown pin out the left side of the pistol (see Figure 12B).

Figure 12A Figure 12B

25
7. Move the slide assembly Figure 13
forward and separate it
from the grip frame (see
Figure 13).

8. Compress the Figure 14

recoilspring assembly
slightly to disengage it
from its seat against
the barrel lug, and
remove it completely
(see Figure 14).

9. Remove the barrel. It will Figure 15

be necessary to move the
barrel forward slightly and
then down and back to
extract it from the slide
(see Figure 15).

26
10. The pistol is now disassembled for cleaning (see Figure 16).
NOTE: An on-line video demonstrating the disassembly and reassembly of the
RUGER® LC9® pistol can be viewed by going to Ruger.com/TechTips.

Figure 16

27
 REASSEMBLY
1. Be certain chamber and magazine are empty.
2. With slide held upside down, replace barrel and push it rearward into its
locked position.
3. Replace the recoil spring assembly into position. The rear end of guide rod
seats against barrel lug.
4. Replace slide onto frame and place in its “closed” position, as if the pistol
were fully assembled.
5. Make sure that the take down plate is fully pressed downward. Pull the slide
slightly rearward to allow the pin to clear the slide. Insert the take down pin
into the frame insert making sure that it is flush with the frame insert. Move
the take down plate upward until it snaps into place.
6. Replace empty magazine in frame through butt of pistol.

CHECK YOUR PISTOL’S FUNCTION

Be sure the pistol is unloaded!
Periodic inspection of any firearm is important to ensuring its safe operation. It
is important to clean and inspect your firearm after each range session or
whenever the firearm has been exposed to sand, dust, moisture, humidity, or
other adverse conditions. Proper maintenance increases the longevity of your
firearm and will allow early detection of worn or broken parts.
Prior to each use, visually inspect the firearm to ensure no components are
damaged, missing, loose, bent, cracked, chipped, or peened. If you observe
excessive wear, you should stop using your pistol and contact customer service
or a trained certified gunsmith to evaluate its condition and replace any worn
parts if necessary.
After any disassembly and reassembly, it is important to verify that the action is
working correctly before any live firing is attempted.
FIRST, BE SURE THERE IS NO AMMUNITION IN THE CHAMBER OR THE
MAGAZINE AND KEEP THE PISTOL POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION!
1. CHECK THE FUNCTION OF THE SLIDE: With the safety in the “FIRE” position,
magazine removed from the firearm, and the slide forward, pull the slide to
the rear and let it move forward quickly two times.
• The slide should move freely all the way to the rear and close completely
under force of the recoil spring.
• Insert an EMPTY magazine and pull the slide to the rear. Release the
slide. The slide should be held open by the slide stop.
• Remove the magazine. The slide should remain open.
• Pull the slide fully to the rear and release it. The slide should move freely
forward to its closed position.

28
2. CHECK THE FUNCTION OF THE MANUAL SAFETY AND MAGAZINE DISCONNECT: With the
magazine removed from the pistol, cycle the slide open and closed to ensure
the internal hammer is cocked. Do not insert the orange inert magazine until
instructed to do so.
• Move the manual safety to “SAFE” and attempt to pull the trigger. The
trigger should move rearward very slightly and stop. The hammer should
not fall.
• Move the manual safety to “FIRE” and attempt to pull the trigger. The
trigger should move rearward very slightly and stop. The hammer should
not fall.
• Keeping the manual safety in the “FIRE” position, insert the orange inert
magazine into the pistol and pull the trigger. The trigger should move
fully rearward and the hammer should fall.
• Keeping the trigger pulled to the rear, cycle the slide to reset the
hammer. Slowly release the trigger. The trigger should move forward and
you will hear/feel the trigger reset. The hammer should not fall.
• With the orange inert magazine still in the pistol, move the manual safety
to the “SAFE” position and attempt to pull the trigger. The trigger should
move partially rearwards and stop. The hammer should not fall.
If any of the above function checks fail or if you are uncertain, please consult a
competent gunsmith or contact Ruger Customer Service at 336-949-5200 for
further firearm inspection before using the firearm.

29
 MAGAZINE INSPECTION AND CARE
Check the magazine frequently. The magazine follower must move freely and
have adequate tension so that each cartridge is quickly raised to the feeding
position. The magazine lips should be clean and free of cracks, dents, or nicks, so
that cartridges are held in their proper feeding position.
If the magazine becomes dirty, it should be disassembled and thoroughly
cleaned. The following disassembly instructions apply:
Snap-On Base - Unload magazine first. Use a punch (your Ruger key will work in
a pinch) to press in on the magazine spring seat where it protrudes into the hole
in the magazine floorplate. Slide the magazine floorplate toward the front of the
magazine. Be careful to prevent the forcible ejection of the magazine spring seat
and compressed magazine spring.
Withdraw the magazine spring seat and magazine spring
from the magazine body. Turn magazine upside down to
allow the follower to drop out of the magazine; remove the
follower. Reassemble in reverse order, being careful to
insert the spring in the correct orientation (see Figure 17).
When cleaning is necessary, use a solvent that will not rust
the metal components or adversely affect the magazine
body. After the magazine has been soaked to loosen foreign
matter, be certain to shake it vigorously (with the loading
opening away from you) to remove solvent or residue from
within the magazine. Penetrating oils and solvents inside a
magazine can “kill” or weaken cartridge primers or powder
which can result in failures to fire or other possibly
dangerous malfunctions, such as leaving a bullet in the
bore!
After cleaning, always check to be certain that the magazine
follower movement and tension are correct, and that no
solvent or debris remain. Improper reassembly of the
magazine can cause failure to feed, which is a potentially
dangerous malfunction. If cleaning does not restore proper
tension, or if you experience a problem with the magazine, Figure 17
don’t use it. Get a new one.

30
 CARE AND CLEANING
Make Sure Firearm Is Unloaded!

BEFORE CLEANING, BE CERTAIN THE PISTOL AND ITS MAGAZINE CONTAIN

NO CARTRIDGES. (See “Unloading Warning,” p. 20)
At regular intervals, or whenever the pistol has been exposed to sand, dust,
extreme humidity, condensation, immersion in water, or other adverse
conditions, disassemble, clean, and oil it. Proper periodic maintenance is
essential to the reliable functioning of any firearm.
An on-line video demonstrating the proper cleaning procedure of the RUGER®
LC9® pistol can be viewed by going to Ruger.com/TechTips.
To clean the pistol, proceed as follows:
1. Disassemble (fieldstrip) the pistol to the extent described on pages 23 - 27.
2. Using a cleaning rod, run a properly sized, solvent-wetted patch through the
bore several times. Then attach a solvent-wetted bristle brush to a cleaning
rod and run it back and forth the full length of the bore as many times as
necessary to remove grease and dirt from the bore and chamber. Clean bore
with dry patches and examine. Bore fouling can contribute to reduced
accuracy, and grease accumulation in the chamber can interfere with proper
feeding of cartridges from the magazine.
3. Using powder solvent on a clean patch or bristle brush, remove powder
residue from all components of the pistol. After cleaning, run a dry patch
through the bore, then follow with a patch that is very lightly oiled. Wipe all
surfaces clean with cloth, then wipe all surfaces with a patch or cloth that has
been very lightly oiled.
4. NOTE: Only a light application of oil is needed to provide adequate
lubrication of moving parts and to prevent rust. Excess accumulations of oil
tend to attract particles of dust and dirt and may congeal in cold weather,
which can interfere with the safe and reliable function of the pistol.
5. Before firing, remove all oil and grease from the bore.

WARNING - LUBRICATION
Firing a pistol with oil, grease, or any other material even
partially obstructing the bore may result in damage to the
pistol and serious injury to the shooter and those nearby.
Do not spray or apply lubricants directly on ammunition. If
the powder of a cartridge is affected by the lubricant, it may
not be ignited, but the primer firing may push the bullet
into the bore where it may be lodged. Firing a subsequent
bullet into the obstructed bore may damage the pistol and
cause serious injury or death to the shooter and those
nearby. Use lubricants properly. You are responsible for the
proper care and maintenance of your firearms.

IMPROPER LUBRICATION
DESTROYS FIREARMS

31
 STORAGE
FIREARMS SHOULD NOT BE STORED LOADED!

USE THE LOCKING DEVICE SUPPLIED WITH THE PISTOL TO

RENDER IT INOPERATIVE FOR SAFE STORAGE.
(SEE PAGE 9)

Do not keep the pistol stored in a leather holster or case. Leather attracts
moisture, even though the holster or case may appear to be perfectly dry.

WARNING – STORAGE
• Never place or store any firearm in
such a manner that it may be
dislodged. Firearms should always be
stored securely and unloaded, away
from children and careless adults.
• Use the locking device supplied with
the pistol for storage. The use of a
locking device or safety lock is only one
aspect of responsible firearms storage.
• For increased safety, firearms should
be stored unloaded in a location that is
both separate from their ammunition
and inaccessible to children and any
other unauthorized person.

STORE SECURELY & UNLOADED

32
 SERVICE AND PARTS POLICY
If you have any questions with regard to the performance of your RUGER® LC9®
or LC380® pistol please contact our Customer Service online at Ruger.com or
call the Customer Service Dept. at 336-949-5200. Fully describe all circumstances
and conditions involved. If you should return your pistol to the factory for repair, or
order parts for it, please comply with the following suggestions for prompt service:

WARNING—BEFORE SHIPPING ANY FIREARM,

BE ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN THAT IT AND ITS
MAGAZINE ARE UNLOADED. DO NOT SHIP
CARTRIDGES WITH A FIREARM.

SHIPPING FIREARMS FOR REPAIR:

NOTE: You must obtain a Repair Authorization Number before returning your
firearm. An authorization number can be obtained by contacting Customer
Service online at Ruger.com or calling the Customer Service Department at 336-
949-5200. Firearms should be sent prepaid. We will not accept collect shipments.
Any RUGER® LC9® or LC380® pistols returned to the factory for service or
repair should be sent to: Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc., Customer Service
Department, 200 Ruger Road, Prescott, AZ 86301-6181.
The Federal Gun Control Act, as well as the laws of most states and localities, do
not prohibit an individual (who is not otherwise barred from purchasing or
possessing a firearm) from shipping a firearm directly to the manufacturer for
repair. However, before you ship your firearm to us, be certain that your state or
locality does not have a law or regulation which will prohibit you from receiving
the firearm (or any included magazines) from us after it has been repaired. If
such receipt is prohibited, please have a federally licensed firearms dealer ship
the firearm to us. If your firearm is sent to us by a dealer, it will be returned to
that dealer after being repaired. If a handgun (pistol or revolver) is shipped by an
individual who does not hold a Federal Firearms License, it must be shipped for
overnight delivery via U.P.S., Federal Express, or other, similar private overnight
service. NOTE: Persons who do not hold a Federal Firearms License are
prohibited by Federal law from shipping a handgun by U.S. Mail. Handguns
mailed in violation of the law may be impounded or confiscated by the Post
Office and the non-FFL may be subject to prosecution.
Please do not include holsters, custom grip panels, or accessories with a firearm
being shipped to the factory for service. DO NOT SEND FIREARM BOXES OR
LITERATURE THAT YOU CONSIDER TO BE COLLECTOR’S ITEMS – THESE
ARE INVARIABLY DAMAGED OR DESTROYED IN SHIPMENT. Always insure
your shipment.
Enclose a letter which includes your name, address, telephone number, firearm
serial number and model, and repair authorization number. Describe in detail
the trouble you have experienced with your firearm, or the work you wish to
have done. Merely stating that the firearm “needs repair” is inadequate
information. Please enclose copies of any previous correspondence.

33
All work performed is subject to a minimum labor charge and charges for shipping and
handling. Most models can be reblued, but custom gunsmithing service or nonstandard
alterations are NOT AVAILABLE from Ruger Customer Service Departments. Please
contact the Customer Service Department for pricing information. In states that have a
magazine capacity limitation, DO NOT RETURN so-called “high capacity” magazines as
Ruger may not be able to return the magazine to you.

WARNING –PARTS PURCHASERS

• It is the purchaser’s responsibility to be
absolutely certain that any parts ordered from
the factory are correctly fitted and installed.
• Firearms are complicated mechanisms and
IMPROPER FITTING OF PARTS MAY RESULT
IN A DANGEROUS MALFUNCTION, DAMAGE
TO THE FIREARM, AND SERIOUS INJURY TO
THE SHOOTER AND OTHER PERSONS.
• The purchaser and installer of parts must
accept full responsibility for the correct
adjustment and functioning of the firearm
after such installation.

PARTS MUST FIT CORRECTLY

ORDERING PARTS
Please contact the Prescott, Arizona Customer Service Department for parts
availability and current prices. All parts orders for the RUGER® LC9® and
LC380® pistols should be sent to: Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc., Customer
Service Department, 200 Ruger Road, Prescott AZ 86301-6181, 336-949-5200. We
cannot comply with open account or C.O.D. requests. Payment in full via credit card
(Visa, MasterCard, or Discover only), money order or certified bank check (no
personal checks or cash, please) is required before any service will be performed.
Please provide your credit card number, your name as it appears on the credit card,
the expiration date and the 3-digit security code. All parts orders are subject to a
minimum charge and charges for shipping and handling. Order parts by Part Name
and specify the model and entire serial number of the firearm for which the parts
are being ordered. There is a minimum labor charge plus a shipping and handling
charge if the parts are factory fit. All factory fit parts are fit on an exchange basis only.
We will not return the replaced parts. Please contact the Customer Service
Department for pricing information.
Because it is a serial numbered component, the RUGER® LC9® and LC380®
frame insert is defined as a “firearm” by Federal law and is not sold as a separate
component.
*Parts designated by an asterisk must be factory fit. These parts are fit on an
exchange basis only. We will not return the replaced parts. We will not return any
part that is broken, malfunctioning, badly worn or has been modified. See “Warning -
Parts Purchasers,” above.

WARNING: A firearm containing broken, malfunctioning, or badly

worn parts should not be fired!

34
 RUGER® LC9® and LC380®
PARTS LIST
Design, prices and specifications subject to change without notice.
SPECIFY MODEL, CALIBER, AND SERIAL NO. WHEN ORDERING
(See Exploded View on Page 37)

Key No. Part Name

† 1 Frame Insert
2 Trigger Pivot
3 Trigger
4 Slide Hold Open
5 Trigger Bar
6 Hammer
7 Hammer Roll Pin
8 Hammer Spring
9 Blocker Lever
10 Hammer Pivot Pin
11 Magazine Disconnect
12 Magazine Disconnect Spring
13 Trigger Pin
14 Trigger Spring
15 Ejector Housing
16 Manual Safety Detent Plunger
17 Hammer Pivot Detent Spring
18 Manual Safety Spring Guide
19 Manual Safety Puck
20 Manual Safety
21 Firing Pin Blocker Lifter Spring
22 Manual Safety Detent Spring
23 Slide Stop Spring
24 Take Down Plate
* 25 Slide
26 Extractor Spring
27 Extractor Plunger
28 Firing Pin
29 Extractor
30 Loaded Chamber Indicator
31 Front Sight
32 Firing Pin Blocker
33 Loaded Chamber Indicator Spring

* PARTS SO MARKED MUST BE FACTORY FITTED

† The Frame Insert is a serial-numbered component and is defined as a
“firearm” by Federal Law and is not sold as a separate component.

35
 Key No. Part Name
34 Firing Pin Retainer
35 Loaded Chamber Indicator Pin
36 Pawl, Hammer Dog & Crane Latch
Spring Plunger
37 Firing Pin Blocker Spring
38 Rear Sight
39 8-32 NC -2A X .187 Hex Soc Flat Pt –
With Patch
40 Firing Pin Spring
41 Takedown Pin0
* 42 Barrel
43 Magazine, Complete
44 Magazine Floor Plate, Extended
45 Frame Insert Pin, 2 Req’d
46 Hammer Catch Pin
47 Guide Rod
48 Recoil Spring, Outer
49 Recoil Spring, Inner
50 Hammer Catch
51 Hammer Catch Spring
†† 52 Grip Frame
53 Hammer Anchor Pin
54 Hammer Spring Seat
55 Magazine Latch
56 Magazine Latch Spring

* PARTS SO MARKED MUST BE FACTORY FITTED

†† The Grip Frame is a part of the Frame Insert and is not offered for sale.

36
RUGER® LC9®
and LC380®
EXPLODED VIEW

37
 THE BASIC RULES OF SAFE FIREARMS HANDLING
We believe that Americans have a right to purchase and use firearms for lawful
purposes. The private ownership of firearms in America is traditional, but that
ownership imposes the responsibility on the gun owner to use his firearms in a
way which will ensure his own safety and that of others. When firearms are used
in a safe and responsible manner, they are a great source of pleasure and
satisfaction, and represent a fundamental part of our personal liberty.
Firearms do not cause accidents! Firearms accidents are almost always found to
have been the result of carelessness or ignorance on the part of the shooter of
the basic rules of safe gun handling.
The following rules must be observed by gun users at all times. Safe gun
handling is not just desirable, it is absolutely essential to your safety, the safety
of others, and the continuation of gun ownership and sport shooting as we know
it today.
1. LEARN THE MECHANICAL AND HANDLING
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE FIREARM YOU ARE USING.
Not all firearms are the same. The
method of carrying and handling
firearms varies in accordance with the
mechanical provisions for avoiding
accidental discharge and the various
proper procedures for loading and
unloading. No person should handle
any firearm without first having
thoroughly familiarized himself with
the particular type of firearms he is
using, and with safe gun handling in
general.

2. ALWAYS KEEP THE

MUZZLE POINTED IN A
SAFE DIRECTION.
Be sure of the bullet stop behind your
target, even when dry-firing. Never let
the muzzle of a firearm point at any
part of your body or at another person.
This is particularly important when
loading or unloading a firearm. In the
event of an accidental discharge, no
injury can occur as long as the muzzle
is pointing in safe direction. A safe
direction means a direction that will
not permit a discharged bullet to
strike a person, or to strike an object
from which the bullet may ricochet.

38
A safe direction must take into account the fact that a bullet may penetrate a
wall, ceiling, floor, window, etc., and strike a person or damage property. Make
it a habit to know exactly where the muzzle of your gun is pointing whenever
you handle it, and be sure that you are always in control of the direction in
which the muzzle is pointing, even if you fall or stumble. Keep your finger off
the trigger until you are ready to shoot.

3. FIREARMS SHOULD BE UNLOADED WHEN NOT IN USE.

Firearms should be loaded only when

you are in the field or on the target
3 range or shooting area, ready to shoot.
Firearms and ammunition should be
securely locked in safes, racks or
cabinets, or by using the locking
2 device supplied with the firearm when
not in use. Ammunition should be
safely stored separate from firearms.
Store your firearms out of sight of
visitors and children. It is the gun
owner’s responsibility to be certain
1 that children and persons unfamiliar
with firearms cannot gain access to
firearms, ammunition, or components.

4. BE SURE THE BARREL IS CLEAR OF OBSTRUCTIONS

BEFORE SHOOTING.
Even a bit of mud, snow or excess
lubricating oil or grease in the bore
may cause the barrel to bulge, or
even burst on firing, and can cause
injury to the shooter and bystanders.
Be sure that you are using
ammunition of the proper caliber
and loading for the gun you are
using. If the report or recoil on firing
seems weak, or doesn’t seem quite
right, CEASE FIRING IMMEDIATELY,
unload your firearm, and check to be
sure that no obstruction has become
lodged in the barrel. Never try to
shoot an obstruction out!

39
 5. BE SURE OF YOUR
TARGET BEFORE YOU
SHOOT.
Don’t shoot unless you know exactly
where your bullet is going to strike.
Be sure of the bullet stop behind
your target, even when dry-firing with
an unloaded gun. If you are in the
field hunting, do not fire at a
movement or noise. Take the time to
be absolutely certain of your target
before you pull the trigger.

6. WEAR SHOOTING
GLASSES AND HEARING
PROTECTION WHEN YOU
SHOOT.
All shooters should wear protective
shooting glasses and adequate
hearing protection when shooting.
Exposure to shooting noise can
damage hearing, and wearing adequate
eye protection when shooting is
essential.

7. NEVER CLIMB A TREE OR

FENCE WITH A LOADED
FIREARM.
Put the firearm down carefully
before climbing a fence, and unload
it before climbing or descending a
tree or jumping over a ditch or other
obstruction. Never pull or push a
loaded firearm toward yourself or
another person. When in doubt, or
whenever you are about to do any-
thing awkward, unload your gun!

40
 ,
8. DON T SHOOT AT A
HARD SURFACE OR AT
WATER.
Bullets can glance off many surfaces
like rocks or the surface of water and
travel in unpredictable directions
with considerable velocity.

9. NEVER TRANSPORT A
LOADED FIREARM.
Firearms should always be unloaded
before being moved or placed in a
vehicle. A suitable carrying case or
scabbard should be used to carry an
unloaded firearm to and from the
shooting area.

10. AVOID ALCOHOLIC

BEVERAGES WHEN
SHOOTING.
Don’t drink until the day’s shooting
is over. Handling firearms while
under the influence of alcohol in any
form, or medications that could affect
your judgement or coordination,
constitutes a criminal disregard for
the safety of others.

41
 A BRIEF ACCOUNT OF AN EXTRAORDINARY
ACHIEVEMENT: RUGER® FIREARMS
Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc., had its beginning in a small machine
shop occupying a rented frame building in Southport, Connecticut. In
January, 1949, with an initial investment of only $50,000 and an idea,
William B. Ruger and Alexander M. Sturm started production of a .22
caliber autoloading pistol–a design which was so successful that it
became the cornerstone upon which one of the most comprehensive
lines of sporting firearms ever made in America was established. After
Alex Sturm’s death in 1951, William B. Ruger continued to direct the
Company until his death in 2002. William B. Ruger, Jr. continued to
provide guidance, which helped make this Company a sound and
successful enterprise, until his retirement in 2006. The Company has
continued to prosper, under new management and guidance from our
Board, with new products and fresh perspectives.
Ruger, in this relatively short time, has established itself as a leading
small arms design organization, developing a unique and broad line of
fine quality sporting, military and police firearms to become one of the
world’s most famous producers of revolvers, pistols, rifles and shotguns.
Since 1949, Ruger craftsmen have built many millions of firearms.
During its five decades of growth and progress under the leadership of
William B. Ruger, the Company developed a business philosophy and
implemented policies which represent a constructive influence in the life
of modern America. From the beginning, Ruger played a positive role in
conservation efforts and has supported the interests of shooters through
such groups as the National Rifle Association, National Shooting Sports
Foundation, and many regional sportsmen’s organizations.
The Company has always endeavored to market its firearms for
constructive and recreational purposes, to emphasize the traditional and
responsible aspects of shooting, to render meaningful public services,
and to encourage shooters in constructive, responsible, and safe
participation in the shooting sports. Its motto, “Arms Makers For
Responsible Citizens®,” exemplifies this Company philosophy.
Today, Ruger® is particularly mindful of those elements which have
contributed to the creation of its success, and extends heartfelt thanks to
its many loyal employees and customers.

Instruction manuals for all Ruger® firearms,

can be downloaded from our website at:
Ruger.com
42
NOTES

43
 WHY NO WARRANTY CARD HAS BEEN
PACKED WITH THIS NEW RUGER® FIREARM
The Magnuson-Moss Act (Public Law 93-637) does not require any
seller or manufacturer of a consumer product to give a written
warranty. It does provide that if a written warranty is given, it must be
designated as “limited” or as “full” and sets minimum standards for a
“full” warranty. Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. has elected not to
provide any written warranty, either “limited” or “full”, rather than to
attempt to comply with the provisions of the Magnuson-Moss Act and
the regulations issued thereunder. There are certain implied
warranties under state law with respect to sales of consumer goods. As
the extent and interpretation of these implied warranties varies from
state to state, you should refer to your state statutes. Sturm, Ruger &
Company wishes to assure its customers of its continued interest in
providing service to owners of Ruger® firearms.

STURM, RUGER & Company, Inc.

200 Ruger Road
Prescott, Arizona 86301 U.S.A.
Ruger.com
Arms Makers For Responsible Citizens®
A COPY OF THE INSTRUCTION MANUAL FOR ANY RUGER®
FIREARM IS AVAILABLE FROM THE FACTORY FREE ON REQUEST, OR IT MAY
BE DOWNLOADED FROM OUR WEBSITE AT RUGER.COM.
THESE INSTRUCTION MANUALS CONTAIN IMPORTANT
WARNINGS WHICH MUST BE UNDERSTOOD
BEFORE USING THESE FIREARMS.
The Following are Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. Trademarks: “All-Weather,” “Bisley,” “Gold Label,” “I’m a Ruger American,”
“LC6,” “LCR-357,” “LC380CA,” “LC Carbine,” “Mark II,” “Mark III,” “Mark IV,” “MAX-9,” “Model 96,” “P345,” “P345D,”
“P345PR,” “P85,” “P89,” “P90,” “P91,” “P93,” “P94,” “P95,” “P97,” “PC Carbine,” “R.I.O.S.,” “Ruger-5.7,” “Ruger Marksman
Adjustable,” “Ruger 77/50,” “Ruger 10/17,” “Security-Six,” “Service-Six,” “77/357,” “SFAR,” “Single-Seven,” “Speed-Six,”
“SR45,” “SR-556C,” “SR-556VT,” “Super Bearcat,” “Target Grey,” “10/22-FS,” “This is Ruger. This is America.,” “Tri-Flex,”
“22 Charger,” “22/45,” “22/45 RP,” and “Your Next Handgun.”
The Following are Registered U.S. Trademarks Belonging to Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.: “AC-556,” “AR-556,” “Arms
Makers For Responsible Citizens,” “Bearcat,” “Blackhawk,” “BX-15,” “BX-25,” “BX-Trigger,” Eagle - solid logo design, Eagle
Hard “R” logo holding gun, Eagle ‘R’ - soft ‘R’ & hard ‘R’ logo design, Eagle w/‘SR’, Eagle w/soft ‘R’ linear logo design, Eagle
w/hard ‘R’ linear logo design, Eagle w/soft ‘R’ stacked logo design, Eagle w/hard ‘R’ stacked logo design, Eagle w/soft ‘R’
linear logo design & “Rugged, Reliable Firearms” below logo, Eagle w/hard ‘R’ linear logo design & “Rugged, Reliable
Firearms” below logo, “EC9s,” “Elite 452,” “GP100,” “Hawkeye,” “It’s Mine and It’s American,” “It’s Mine. And It’s
American,” “LC380,” “LC9,” “LC9s,” “LC9s Pro,” “LCP,” “LCR,” “LCRx,” “M77,” “Match Champion,” “Mini-14,” “Mini
Thirty,” “9E,” “Old Army,” “Power Bedding,” “Redhawk,” “RUGER,” “Ruger American,” “Ruger American Pistol,” “Ruger
American Pistol” flag design, “Ruger American Rifle,” “Ruger American Rimfire,” “Ruger Custom Shop,” “Ruger Hunting” -
phrase & logo design, “Ruger Precision,” “Ruger Precision Rifle” - phrase & logo design, “Ruger 77/17,” “Ruger 77/22,”
“Ruger 77/44,” “Ruger SP101,” “Ruger 10/22 Takedown” phrase & logo design, “Ruger Titanium,” “Ruger 22/45 Lite,”
“Ruger Vaquero,” “Rugged, Reliable Firearms,” “Security-9,” “Silent-SR,” “Single-Nine,” “Single-Six,” “Single-Ten,” the “SR”
Design, “SR9,” “SR9c,” “SR40,” “SR40c,” “SR-22,” “SR22,” “SR-556,” “SR-556 Takedown,” “SR-762,” “SR1911,” “Super
Redhawk Alaskan,” “10/22,” & “Wrangler.”