It was in 1949 that Sturm, Ruger & Company, Incorporated, more commonly known as Ruger, was founded by William B. Ruger and Alexander McCormick Sturm. Since then, the Connecticut-based arms manufacturer has been recognized as a leader in centerfire and rimfire handguns and rifles and renowned for their reputation regarding both reliability and durability. It is that reputation that leads the company to produce firearms like the Ruger LCR. More importantly, it is that very same reputation that allows the company to build on successful firearms like the LCR and produce firearms like the Ruger LCR-357, which is surely seeking to rival its predecessor in terms of both quality and popularity.

As noted while penning the description for the Ruger LCR, modern manufacturers seem to be increasingly interested in reducing the dimensions and weights of their products. The original Ruger LCR is a shining example of that trend. After all, it is in the name (Light Compact Revolver). The Ruger LCR-357 makes no attempts at deviating from that formula and offers up all of the features that made the original LCR such a success. Let us take a minute and explore some of those features.

The most noticeable feature, and the one that plays most significantly in the light weight of the revolver, is its use of polymer in its construction. The lower frame assembly, dubbed the fire-control housing by Ruger, is manufactured using a lightweight polymer that serves to reduce both recoil and weight. This is complemented by a monolithic frame made from blackened 400 series stainless steel. And though the cylinder is also made from stainless steel – never a bad idea – it is fluted, serving to further reduce the overall weight. Not only that, but it is treated with Ruger's Target Grey® finish for enhanced durability and rated for +P ammunition.

So the Ruger LCR-357 is light, but what about its performance? The LCR-357 is built using a patent pending friction-reducing cam. What does that mean? It means that the fire control system features an optimized cam that provides a smooth, non-stacking trigger pull – perfect for self-defense.

The Ruger LCR-357 is one of the company's smallest and lightest offerings to date, featuring a 1.875-inch barrel and an overall length of just 6.5 inches. As noted, the frame is manufactured from stainless steel and the fire control housing is manufactured from polymer. Coupled with a fluted stainless steel cylinder, the LCR-357 weighs in at a meager 17.1 ounces. Other features include a notched rear sight, a pinned ramp front sight and a Hogue® Tamer™ grip that is replaceable with a variety of aftermarket grip styles. And did I mention the fact that the Ruger LCR is a cleared for ownership in both California and Massachusetts?

After its debut, the Ruger LCR was met with universal praise and critical acclaim – after all, it did win a major award. With the recent release of the Ruger LCR-357, we expect much of the same. As such, it is probably a good idea to grab one while we have one. Consider the LCR-357 for:

- Concealed carry and personal protection

- Sport shooting

- Recreational shooting

- Collections

- Much more…