Ruger LCR 38 Special Problems And Their Solutions
The Ruger LCR 38 Special is a lightweight, compact revolver designed for concealed carry. However, given its small size and limited design features, the Ruger LCR 38 Special has been known to have some issues that users should be aware of.
Some of the most common problems with Ruger Lcr 38 include Failure To Feed, Cylinder Problems, Trigger Stuck, Failure To Extract, and Reliability issues.
In this article will discuss some common problems associated with the Ruger Special revolver and what steps you can take to address them.
We will also provide some helpful tips on how to get the most out of your Ruger LCR 38 Special revolver experience.
Ruger LCR 38 Special Problems And Their Solutions
Contents
1. Failure To Feed
This problem can occur when the revolver’s cylinder fails to rotate correctly, and ammunition is not properly fed into the chamber.
This issue can be very dangerous and should always be taken seriously. Maintenance of this handgun is important in preventing this problem.
This includes cleaning the revolver regularly, inspecting it for abnormalities, and ensuring all parts are properly lubricated.
It’s also important to check that your ammunition works correctly and is compatible with your gun.
2. Cylinder Problem
Regarding the Ruger LCR 38 Special, users commonly encounter “cylinder problems.” This occurs when the gun fails to feed properly and results in misfires.
Several factors, such as improper loading of ammunition, poor cylinder timing, or incorrect alignment of the firing pin, can cause it.
One of the most important things you can do is check that the ammunition is properly loaded.
This includes ensuring that all rounds are seated correctly and that no foreign objects, such as dirt or debris, have become lodged inside the cylinder.
Another potential cause for this issue is poor cylinder timing. This occurs when the timing of the cylinder rotation is off, which can cause a misfire.
To diagnose this issue, you should first check that the cylinder is properly aligned and then slowly rotate it while observing its movements inside the frame.
You may need to adjust the timing if there are any signs of binding or uneven movement.
You should also check for any misalignment of the firing pin. This can result in a misfire if the firing pin is not correctly aligned with the cartridge’s primer in the chamber.
You’ll need to remove the cylinder and inspect it for any damage or possible alignment issues to correct this issue.
Once these have been fixed, you should be able to reassemble the gun and test it for proper functioning.
3. Trigger Stuck
This is a very common issue experienced by many gun owners, and it can be tricky to resolve due to the complexity of the firearm. Fortunately, we have some tips to help you unstuck your trigger quickly.
The most common cause of a stuck trigger is dirt or debris that has accumulated on some of the inner components of the gun.
To fix this, make sure to take apart your firearm and give it a thorough cleaning. Doing this should remove any of the buildup that is preventing the trigger from moving correctly.
If the trigger is still stuck after cleaning, check for any obstructions in the internal firing parts.
Your gun owner’s manual should provide detailed instructions on doing this correctly without causing further damage to your weapon.
If you’re uncomfortable disassembling the firearm, we recommend taking it to a local gunsmith for assistance.
They should be able to diagnose and repair any underlying problems that are causing the trigger to stay stuck.
4. Failure To Extract
Failure to extract is a common problem with Ruger 38 Special handguns. This issue arises when the spent casing of a previously fired round fails to be extracted from the chamber.
The result can vary depending on how severe the problem is, ranging from mild malfunctions to potentially dangerous jams or misfires.
The most frequent cause of this problem is insufficient lubrication on moving parts and an accumulation of fouling, debris, or residue in the firearm.
This can result in pressure buildup between the casing and chamber walls, preventing the extractor from properly removing it.
Fortunately, this issue can be easily remedied with regular maintenance and cleaning.
Proper lubrication should be applied to all moving parts before using the firearm and regularly inspected for fouling or residue build-up.
Also, the firing pin should be checked periodically to ensure proper contact with the primer of each cartridge.
5. Reliability issues
When it comes to firearms, reliability is paramount. The LCR 38 Special is no exception—it must perform as expected for its users to have the utmost confidence in their firearm.
Unfortunately, some customers have experienced misfires or failure to fire when using this particular model of the Ruger LCR.
Maintaining your firearm properly is important to ensure that your experience with this pistol is as reliable and safe as possible. Regularly clean the gun and inspect its components for signs of wear.
Use only the recommended ammunition in your gun to help minimize any potential misfires or failures to fire.
6. Front Sight Misalignment
When it comes to the Ruger Special, a particularly common problem is that of front sight misalignment.
This issue can lead to significant inaccuracy when aiming with this revolver and could be dangerous in certain circumstances.
Fortunately, some steps can be taken to rectify the issue. Firstly, checking that the barrel and frame of the gun are perfectly aligned is key.
If there is any misalignment present, it should be addressed before attempting to fix the front sight.
This can usually be done by loosening particular screws and adjusting their positions a small amount with a screwdriver or Allen wrench until alignment is restored.
If the barrel and frame are already properly aligned, then you can start to look at adjusting the front sight itself.
This is a delicate operation, and it is important not to apply too much pressure when turning the set screws on either side of the sight.
3 Best Alternative Guns of Ruger LCR 38 Special
The Ruger LCR is an iconic revolver designed and manufactured by Sturm, Ruger & Co. It has been a popular choice for personal protection, target shooting, and home defense since its release in 2009.
However, other options are available when selecting a revolver for self-defense or recreational shooting.
Here, we compare three alternative guns of Ruger 38 Special—Taurus 605, Chiappa Rhino, and Smith and Wesson Model 638.
Taurus 605:
This revolver offers a 5-round capacity and a comfortable grip, making it a popular choice for concealed carry. It also has a transfer bar safety system for added protection.
Also, the Taurus 605 is competitively priced compared to other options on the market.
Chiappa Rhino:
Known for its unique design and low recoil, the Chiappa Rhino is a great option for those who prioritize comfort while shooting.
Its streamlined barrel aligns with the bottommost chamber, resulting in a lower bore axis that reduces muzzle flip. It also allows for quicker follow-up shots.
Smith and Wesson Model 638:
Like the Ruger LCR, the Model 638 is a compact and lightweight option for concealed carry.
It has a durable stainless steel cylinder and barrel and an exposed hammer for easy single-action shooting. The Model 638 also has a 5-round capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I fix the trigger pull issue?
If you are experiencing a heavy or rough trigger pull, try cleaning the trigger mechanism and applying a light lubricant to improve the smoothness of the trigger pull.
What should I do if my handgun is frequently misfiring?
It is important to check your ammunition first. Ensure you are using good quality, factory-made ammunition without reloads or damaged rounds.
If the issue persists, having your firearm inspected by a qualified gunsmith is recommended.
Should I choose a Ruger 38 Special or a Taurus revolver?
Ultimately depends on your preferences and needs. Both brands offer quality firearms, so handling and shooting both models is recommended to determine which one feels more comfortable and suits your shooting style.
How can I improve the accuracy of my Ruger LCR 38 Special?
Improving accuracy can be achieved through regular practice, proper grip, and a consistent shooting technique.
Experimenting with different types of ammunition and finding the one that performs best in your firearm can also help enhance accuracy.
What is the difference between .38 and .38 Special?
The main difference between .38 and .38 Special is the length of the cartridge case. The .38 Special has a longer case, allowing for more powder and a higher velocity than the .38.
This results in a slightly more powerful round. Additionally, the .38 Special is typically used in revolvers, while the .38 may be found in various firearms, including semi-automatic pistols.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ruger LCR 38 Special handguns have had some reported problems but remain incredibly reliable.
Many of the issues that have been reported are minor and can easily be overcome with proper maintenance and storage.
As with any gun, it is important to follow all safety protocols outlined by the manufacturer when handling a Ruger LCR 38 Special handgun.
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