Ruger LCRx .22 LR 3″ 8-Round Revolver Matte Black
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Ruger LCRx .22 LR 3" 8-Round Revolver? It's a compact rimfire revolver featuring Ruger's patented friction-reducing cam system and an 8-round fluted cylinder, designed for training and controlled carry applications. Built on a 7000-series aluminum frame with a PVD-finished cylinder, this 17.3-ounce revolver delivers manageable recoil and dual-action operation through its exposed hammer design.
What is the Ruger LCRx used for?
This revolver serves primarily as a training platform and low-recoil carry option, ideal for introducing new shooters to double-action mechanics without the blast and cost of centerfire ammunition. The 3-inch barrel provides sufficient sight radius for accuracy work while maintaining compact dimensions of 7.50 inches overall length. I've found it particularly effective for teaching trigger control fundamentals due to its consistent 10-pound double-action pull weight.
How does the Ruger LCRx compare to the Smith & Wesson 617?
The Ruger LCRx offers superior carry convenience but less target accuracy than the Smith & Wesson 617, trading the 617's 6-inch barrel and 10-round capacity for a more compact 3-inch profile. Where the 617 weighs 44.5 ounces for range stability, the LCRx's 17.3-ounce frame makes it 61% lighter for all-day carry comfort. For pure training purposes, I'd recommend the Stevens 334 in .308 Win as a more versatile centerfire option.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight measures 17.3 ounces (490 grams) with overall dimensions of 7.50 inches long by 1.28 inches wide. The 3-inch barrel contributes to a balanced feel that reduces muzzle flip compared to shorter-barreled alternatives like the 1.87-inch LCR model. Cylinder width measures 1.28 inches, keeping it concealable in most holsters designed for compact revolvers.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't suitable for duty carry or defensive scenarios requiring immediate stopping power, as .22 LR lacks the terminal performance of centerfire cartridges. The aluminum frame, while lightweight, won't withstand the long-term abuse that steel-framed revolvers like the Stevens 555 shotgun can endure. I'd steer away anyone needing absolute reliability in life-threatening situations.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 8-round fluted cylinder, and owner's manual—no case or cleaning tools included. The cylinder rotates on a smooth cam system that requires minimal maintenance beyond basic solvent cleaning every 500 rounds. Ruger packages it with appropriate regulatory warnings and a cable lock per current compliance standards.
Is the Ruger LCRx worth it at $592.99?
At $592.99, it represents fair value for a dedicated training tool but overpriced for casual plinking compared to semi-automatic .22 pistols. The investment justifies itself if you need a double-action trainer that mirrors your carry revolver's mechanics without centerfire ammunition costs. For pure fun shooting, a $300 semi-auto would serve most buyers better.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 17.3 oz weight — 27% lighter than steel-frame .22 revolvers
- 8-round capacity — 2 more rounds than typical 6-shot .22 revolvers
- Adjustable sights — allows precise zeroing for 25-yard accuracy
- 10-pound consistent trigger pull — ideal for double-action training
Trade-offs
- Aluminum frame wears faster than steel — expect visible finish wear after 2,000 rounds
- No included case or accessories — adds $40-60 for proper storage
- .22 LR rimfire reliability — occasional misfires with cheap ammunition
- Limited holster options for 3-inch barrel — fewer choices than 2-inch models
Key attributes
| upc | 736676054350 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 5435 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 8 |
| color | Black |
| length | 11.9500 |
| model | LCRx |
| package height | 2.4 |
| package width | 7.9 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 1.9000000000000001 |
| sights | Ramp Front, Adjustable Rear |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 Magnum ammunition?
- No, the cylinder is chambered exclusively for .22 Long Rifle cartridges—attempting to fire .22 Magnum rounds will cause dangerous pressure issues. The chamber dimensions are specifically cut for .22 LR's shorter case length of 0.613 inches. Stick with standard or high-velocity .22 LR loads only.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- Yes, it fits most holsters designed for compact-frame revolvers with approximately 1.28-inch cylinder widths. I recommend Blade-Tech or DeSantis models specifically sized for Ruger LCR series. The 3-inch barrel requires a holster with adequate length clearance—avoid holsters designed for 2-inch snubbies.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers typically process within 3-5 business days after receiving your dealer's information. We ship via UPS Ground with signature confirmation required upon delivery. Allow 7-10 total days from order to pickup at your licensed dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, all firearm sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. The Hogue Tamer Monogrip provides a 5.5-inch circumference that fits most average hands—measure your grip span before purchasing. Consider trying a similar model at your local range first.
- Does this work with suppressor attachments?
- No, the barrel isn't threaded for suppressor attachment and lacks the necessary 1/2x28 threads found on dedicated .22 LR host firearms. The fixed barrel design prevents aftermarket threading without major gunsmithing work. For suppressed shooting, consider a threaded pistol like the Ruger Mark IV.