A new Ruger LCR 38 Special currently costs between $500 and $759, depending on the exact model and dealer markup. The base LCR models and the exposed hammer LCRx configurations typically retail around $550 to $600 at most gun shops. Shooters can expect the lowest starting price for a brand new standard version to be right near $500 when found on sale. The final price varies heavily based on whether you choose the internal hammer, external hammer, a three inch barrel, factory installed laser grips, or fiber optic sights. On the used market, police trade in models and gently used revolvers generally sell for $350 to $450.
Ruger LCR 38 Special Price
| Ruger LCR Model | Caliber | Barrel Length | Finish | MSRP | Current Retail Price |
| LCR Standard (Model 5401) | .38 Special +P | 1.87″ | Matte Black | $759.00 | $550 to $600 |
| LCRx (Model 5430) | .38 Special +P | 1.87″ | Matte Black | $759.00 | $510 to $600 |
| LCRx 3-Inch (Model 5431) | .38 Special +P | 3″ | Matte Black | $759.00 | $590 to $650 |
| LCR with Crimson Trace Laser | .38 Special +P | 1.87″ | Matte Black | N/A | $550 to $650 |
| LCR with LaserMax Laser | .38 Special +P | 1.87″ | Matte Black | N/A | $450 to $500 |
Explaining The Table
Based on live retailer data, the lowest current price found for a new Ruger LCR 38 Special is around $450 for models on heavy clearance with a LaserMax sight, though standard iron sight models usually bottom out near $500. The highest retail price usually caps around $650 for the three inch barrel LCRx or models equipped with premium Crimson Trace laser grips.
The typical retail price for an average new model hovers around $550 to $600. When comparing MSRP to retail price, the Ruger MSRP is a flat $759 for most base models, but physical retailers consistently sell them $150 to $200 cheaper to remain competitive. Different models cost different amounts depending on the inclusion of lasers, upgraded fiber optic sights, and whether they feature an exposed hammer for single action firing.
How Much Does A Ruger LCR 38 Special Cost?
For a brand new Ruger LCR 38 Special, expect to spend an absolute minimum of $500 for a standard matte black model without any laser accessories. Most buyers will spend between $550 and $600 to secure standard internal hammer or exposed hammer versions at a local gun store. If you want a model featuring the longer three inch barrel or high end laser grips, retail costs run slightly higher in the $600 to $650 range.
Ruger LCR 38 Special Price By Model
The Ruger LCR family is split into two primary design choices, each bearing slightly different price structures based on retailer availability:
- Ruger LCR (Internal Hammer): Designed as a snag free concealed carry revolver with a double action only trigger. These are the most common configurations and typically retail from $550 to $600.
- Ruger LCRx (External Hammer): Features an exposed hammer allowing the user to cock the revolver for a crisp single action trigger pull. These generally retail from $510 to $600 for short barrel versions.
Ruger LCR 38 Special Price By Barrel Length
Barrel length plays a noticeable role in dictating the price, primarily separating the concealed carry models from target and trail models.
- 1.87 Inch Barrels: The standard snub nose length found on the vast majority of LCR models. Prices range widely based on sights and grips, spanning from $450 to $650.
- 3 Inch Barrels:Available exclusively on the LCRx models, providing a longer sight radius and slightly better ballistic performance. These models generally retail from $590 to $650.
Ruger LCR 38 Special MSRP vs Retail Price
The official Ruger MSRP is noticeably higher than what you will pay at a reputable gun shop. The standard matte black LCR (Model 5401) carries an MSRP of $759, but it reliably retails in the mid $500s.The exposed hammer LCRx lists for the identical $759 MSRP but is commonly sold around $510 to $600. Retail competition frequently drives the actual purchase price down, allowing buyers to save significant money compared to the factory price limits.
Why Is The Ruger LCR 38 Special Priced This Way?
The Ruger LCR 38 price sits firmly in the middle tier of the revolver market. It is more expensive than budget revolvers from Taurus or Charter Arms but cheaper than premium Smith & Wesson models. The price tag is driven by its innovative polymer fire control housing and aerospace grade aluminum frame, which drastically reduces the carrying weight. Additionally, the LCR features a friction reducing cam inside the trigger mechanism that provides an exceptionally smooth pull out of the box, requiring more complex engineering than standard budget revolvers.
Model Comparison
Comparing currently available Ruger LCR models showcases the differences that dictate the price:
- LCR Standard (Model 5401): 1.87 inch barrel, internal hammer, Hogue Tamer grip. MSRP: $759. Current Price: ~$550 to $600. Main difference: Snag free concealed carry design.
- LCRx (Model 5430): 1.87 inch barrel, external hammer, Hogue Tamer grip. MSRP: $759. Current Price: ~$510 to $600. Main difference: Allows for single action firing.
- LCRx 3-Inch (Model 5431): 3 inch barrel, external hammer, adjustable sights. MSRP: $759. Current Price: ~$590 to $650. Main difference: Longer barrel and adjustable rear sights for target shooting.
Used Ruger LCR 38 Special Price
Buying a used Ruger LCR is a common way to acquire a lightweight carry revolver for a lower cost. Because police departments occasionally issue them as backup weapons, police trade in models frequently enter the used market.
| Condition | Typical Price Range | Notes |
| New | $500 to $650 | Price highly dependent on laser grips and barrel length |
| Used – Good Condition | $399 to $450 | Often found as police trade ins with visible holster wear |
| Used – Excellent Condition | $450 to $500 | Gently used concealed carry models |
| Rare / Special Editions | $500+ | Models with unique copper cylinder finishes or colored grips |
Note: Used market figures are market observations based on recently sold listings rather than official pricing.
Ruger LCR 38 Special Price Compared With Other Revolvers
How does the Ruger LCR hold up against the competition in terms of pricing?
| Firearm | Caliber | Typical Current Price | Price Difference |
| Ruger LCR | .38 Special +P | $500 to $600 | N/A |
| Smith & Wesson 642 | .38 Special +P | $450 to $550 | Ruger is roughly $50 more expensive |
| Taurus 856 | .38 Special | $320 to $360 | Ruger is roughly $200 more expensive |
| Charter Arms Undercover | .38 Special | $310 to $350 | Ruger is roughly $200 more expensive |
What Affects The Price?
Several crucial factors influence how much a Ruger LCR 38 Special will cost:
- Laser Grips: Models equipped with Crimson Trace laser grips cost noticeably more than those with standard rubber Hogue Tamer grips.
- Barrel Length: The three inch LCRx models command a small premium over the standard snub nose versions.
- Sights: Factory installed fiber optic front sights usually bump the price up slightly compared to standard pinned ramp sights.
- New vs Used Condition:A used Ruger LCR 38 Special used price can drop closer to the $399 mark, especially if purchased as a police trade in.
- Retailer: Big box outdoor stores often have standard pricing, while smaller gun shops or online drop shippers may aggressively discount base models.
Ruger LCR 38 Special Price Pros
- Exceptional Trigger: The patented friction reducing cam provides one of the best double action trigger pulls in its class without needing custom gunsmithing.
- Lightweight Design:Weighing only 13.5 ounces, it is incredibly comfortable for all day concealed carry.
- Holds Value Well: Because of the Ruger brand reputation for durability, these revolvers retain a strong resale value on the secondary market.
Ruger LCR 38 Special Price Cons
- Middle Tier Cost: It is significantly more expensive than budget revolvers from Taurus, requiring a larger initial investment.
- Harsh Recoil: Because it is so lightweight, shooting heavy +P ammunition is physically punishing, which may deter shooters from practicing frequently.
- Five Round Capacity: Like most revolvers in its size class, it only holds five rounds, whereas some budget competitors like the Taurus 856 offer a six round cylinder.
Ruger LCR 38 Special Price: How Much Does It Cost?
A new Ruger LCR 38 Special costs between $500 and $759 depending entirely on the configuration and included sights.
The lowest researched price for a brand new standard model is near $450 for discontinued LaserMax combos, while standard models sit closer to $500. The highest researched retail price for a three inch LCRx is roughly $650. The Ruger LCR 38 Special MSRP range is a flat $759 across most baseline variations. If you are shopping the used market, typical prices sit reliably between $399 and $450 for police trade ins and standard trade ins.
FAQs
How much does a Ruger LCR 38 Special cost?
A new Ruger LCR 38 Special costs between $500 for basic models and $650 for versions with laser grips or three inch barrels.
How much is a Ruger LCRx 38 Special?
The exposed hammer Ruger LCRx generally retails for around $510 to $600 depending on the dealer.
What is the price of a Ruger LCR 38 Special revolver?
The current retail price spans from $500 to $650 for brand new models.
How much does a new Ruger LCR 38 Special cost?
You will spend at least $500 for a brand new standard model, up to $650 for laser equipped versions.
How much does a used Ruger LCR 38 Special cost?
Used models generally sell for $399 to $450, with police trade ins often providing the best deals at the lower end of that spectrum.
What is the MSRP of a Ruger LCR 38 Special?
The MSRP is $759 for both the internal hammer LCR and the external hammer LCRx base models.
Why is the Ruger LCR 38 Special so popular?
It utilizes a lightweight polymer fire control housing and an aerospace grade aluminum frame, combined with an incredibly smooth friction reducing cam trigger system.
Is the Ruger LCR 38 Special worth the price?
It is worth the price for buyers who want an exceptionally smooth trigger and a lightweight carry profile, though budget conscious buyers might find better value in cheaper all steel brands.
Does barrel length affect Ruger LCR 38 Special price?
Yes. The 3 inch LCRx models usually command a premium over the standard 1.87 inch concealed carry versions.
What is the cheapest Ruger LCR 38 Special?
The cheapest models are used police trade ins, which often retail for $399. For new models, standard matte black versions bottom out near $500.
What is the most expensive Ruger LCR 38 Special?
Models equipped with Crimson Trace laser grips or the 3 inch barrel LCRx are the most expensive, commonly retailing near $600 to $650.
How does Ruger LCR 38 Special price compare with a Smith & Wesson 642?
The Ruger LCR is generally slightly more expensive, typically costing $50 to $100 more than a new Smith & Wesson 642.
Can the Ruger LCR shoot +P ammo?
Yes, all modern production Ruger LCR revolvers chambered in .38 Special are factory rated to safely handle +P ammunition.