Ruger Lightweight LC Carbine 5.7x28mm: First Look

Ruger has recently announced the lightweight, compact Ruger LC Carbine chambered in 5.7x28mm. Made in the USA of strong and lightweight materials, the Ruger LC Carbine was made for the range, backpacking, small game, or anywhere carbine would be appreciated. 

Ruger President and CEO, Chris Killoy, took time out at the range with the new LC Carbine and said, “I can’t describe how ergonomic the LC Carbine feels in your hands. You have to experience it on the range to really appreciate how it balances and moves. The controls are intuitive and conveniently located, and the lack of felt recoil makes it hard to put down.”

Even when using typical 40 grain 5.7x28mm jacketed bullets, Ruger notes that the carbine’s felt recoil is comparable to a .22 LR. Like the Ruger-5.7 pistol, the LC Carbine utilizes Ruger's proven Secure Action fire-control mechanism that combines a protected internal hammer with a bladed-safety trigger. The LC carbine also utilizes the same magazines and controls as the Ruger-5.7 pistol. Guns and Ammo contributor Kyle Lamb had some very high praise for the Ruger 5.7, which bodes well for the LC Carbine.

Ruger credits the compact nature of the carbine to its bolt-over-barrel design and feeding through the grip. The fluted, nitride-coated alloy steel barrel allows for the attachment of standard muzzle accessories. The 16.25” barrel features a reversible side-folding stock adjustable for length of pull and is compatible with Picatinny rail-mounted accessory stocks. The stock and Rapid Deploy adjustable sights can be folded for storage. 

Ruger LC Carbine 

• Cartridge: 5.7x28mm
• Capacity: 20+1 rds.
• Barrel: 16.25 in., 1:9-in. twist
• Overall Length: 28.7-30.6 in.
• Weight: 5 lb., 14 oz.
• Finish: Type III Hard Coat Anodized
• Sights: Adjustable folding sights
• Safety: Firing pin block; trigger lever; thumb lever
• MSRP: $979