The Ruger LCP Max is one of the newest additions to the Ruger line of pistols. Chambered in .380 ACP, the LCP Max is a great little subcompact pistol that is designed for concealed carry and self-defense.
Released in 2021, the LCP Max is an updated version of the original LCP pistol that came out in 2008. The biggest difference between the two pistols is the new Max model has a longer barrel and slide. This gives the gun more accuracy and stopping power. The LCP Max also has an improved trigger pull and a better grip.
These notable improvements aside, the LCP Max isn’t without its problems. Some consumers who invested in this pistol have found themselves experiencing a number of issues. This isn’t to say that the Ruger LCP Max isn’t a great gun, but like any mechanical device under lots of stress, issues can arise. We’re here to help you solve them.
If you’re one of the many gun owners who bought a Ruger LCP Max and is experiencing problems, this guide is for you. We’re breaking down the most commonly reported issues and offering tips on how to fix them.
Ruger LCP Max Specs
| Caliber | 380 AUTO |
| Capacity | 10+1 or 12+1 |
| Length | 5.17″ |
| Height | 4.12″ |
| Weight | 10.6 oz. |
1. Firing Pin Breakage
One of the most common problems with the Ruger LCP Max is firing pin breakage. The firing pin is a small metal piece that strikes the primer of a cartridge, causing it to detonate.
Any time a firearm’s firing pin breaks, it is cause for concern. If the firing pin in your LCP Max breaks, it could result in the primer not being struck hard enough to detonate the cartridge. This could lead to a misfire. And in some cases, the breakage is so severe that it can render the gun useless.
If that has happened to you, it’s important to take action right away. The last thing you want is to be in a self-defense situation where your firearm fails to fire because of a broken firing pin.
How to Fix It
To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace the firing pin. You can do this yourself if you’re mechanically inclined and have the proper tools. Or, you can take it to a gunsmith or firearms dealer and have them do it for you.
There are a few other things that you can do to prevent firing pin breakage, as well. First, make sure that you’re using high-quality ammunition. Second, clean your gun regularly and inspect the firing pin for wear and tear. Finally, avoid dry-firing your pistol as much as possible.
2. Problems Chambering Correctly
Another common problem with the Ruger LCP Max is that it may have problems chambering correctly. This can be caused by a number of things, including a dirty gun, incorrect ammunition, or even a damaged magazine.
When a firearm chambers properly, it means that the round is seated correctly in the chamber and that there is enough space for the round to be fully supported by the chamber walls. If there is not enough space, or if the round is not seated correctly, it can cause a number of problems.
The most common problem is that the gun will not fire. The round may get stuck in the chamber and not allow the firing pin to strike the primer (see above). In some cases, the round may fire, but the bullet will not exit the barrel. It goes without saying, but this can be extremely dangerous.
Another problem that can occur is that the round may become wedged in the chamber and cause a buildup of pressure. This can cause the gun to explode, which is equally dangerous.
How to Fix It
If you’re having problems chambering correctly, the first thing you should do is clean your gun. A dirty gun can cause all sorts of problems, including chambering issues. Once you’ve cleaned your gun, inspect the ammunition.
Make sure that you’re using the correct ammo for your gun. Finally, check the magazine. If it’s damaged, replace it.
3. Light Strikes
Another common problem with the Ruger LCP Max is light strikes. A light strike is when the firing pin doesn’t strike the primer hard enough to detonate the cartridge. This can happen for a number of reasons, including a weak firing pin spring or dirt buildup on the firing pin itself.
Light strikes are a serious problem because they can lead to misfires. And in a self-defense situation, a misfire could cost you your life.
How to Fix It
There are a few different things you can try to resolve a light strikes issue. First, clean the firing pin and make sure there’s no dirt or debris blocking it.
Second, try replacing the firing pin spring with a stronger one. Finally, if those two things don’t work, you may need to replace the firing pin itself.
Such a task is typically best suited for the gun manufacturer. But if you’re experienced with firearms and have the right tools, you may be able to do it yourself.
4. Extractor Problems
The extractor is a small metal part that holds the bullet in the chamber and is responsible for ejecting the spent casing when the gun is fired. The Ruger LCP is known to have extractor problems, which can cause misfires and jams.
How to Fix It
When extraction issues arise, it is often due to a weak or broken extractor spring. This can be easily fixed by replacing the spring with a new one.
Another potential cause of extractor problems is dirt or debris buildup in the channel that the extractor sits in. This can be cleaned out with a toothpick or other small object.
Some LCP Max owners have had success using different ammunition. So if your current brand isn’t working well, it may be worth trying a different one.
Another possible fix for extraction failure is to apply grease to the gun’s cylinder. This can help to smooth out the action and may make it easier for the extractor to do its job.
Lastly, you may need to polish any roughness present on the extractor itself. This can be done with a fine file or emory cloth. If you aren’t comfortable doing this yourself, you can take it to a gunsmith or gun shop, and they can do it for you.
5. Jamming
The LCP Max enjoyed improved reliability when compared to its predecessor, but some users have still reported issues with the firearm jamming. This is typically caused by a dirty or misaligned magazine. However, there are other potential culprits that could be at play, as well.
How to Fix It
Be sure to clean your magazines on a regular basis and check that they are properly aligned before use. You can also try using a different brand of ammunition to see if that makes a difference.
If the problem persists, you could have a spring malfunctioning. To fix this, you’ll need to take the gun apart and clean or replace the offending component.
Another possible solution is to polish the LCP Max’s feed ramp. This will help the rounds slide into position more smoothly and could potentially solve your problem.
Some users have reported fixing this issue by correcting their shooting style. So you might try getting a better, firmer grip on your firearm in case you’re limp-wristing while firing. Making a minor adjustment like this could make all the difference.
6. Rusting
Another reported problem that’s been making the rounds is rusting. While alloy steel is a highly durable metal, it is not impervious to rust. In fact, any metal is susceptible to rusting if the right conditions are present.
There are a few possible causes of this. First, it could be that the gun wasn’t properly cleaned before being stored. Second, it’s possible that the gun was exposed to moisture somehow.
It’s also possible that the manufacturer is to blame. If subpar materials were used in the production of the gun, it’s more likely to rust.
If you find that your Ruger LCP Max is rusting, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem.
How to Fix It
First, you can clean the gun thoroughly and make sure it’s properly oiled. This will help to prevent further rusting.
If the rusting is severe, you may need to sand down the affected areas and re-finish the gun. This is a more drastic measure, but it may be necessary if the other methods don’t work.
You can also try using a rust converter. This is a chemical that will convert the rust into a different compound that isn’t as prone to rusting.
Finally, you can try using a Rust Inhibitor. This is a product that will help to prevent rust from forming in the first place.
Ruger LCP Max FAQs
One potential fix for a Ruger LCP Max that fails to eject is to clean the firearm. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the ejector spring.
If your Ruger LCP Max is having magazine misalignment problems, the first thing you should do is make sure that the magazine is properly inserted. If the magazine is properly inserted and the problem persists, you may need to adjust the tension on the magazine release.
To do this, simply loosen the two screws that hold the release in place and then adjust the release until the problem is corrected. Once you have adjusted the tension, be sure to retighten the screws so that the release does not come loose.
There are several potential causes for a Ruger LCP Max to fail to fire. The most common cause is a misfire due to a bad primer or cartridge.
Growing up, John loved learning about the components of firearms and what makes them work, which still intrigues him to this day. He’s a very outdoorsy person, and he loves fishing, hunting, and skeet shooting. He is a firm believer in the Second Amendment and the right to bear arms.
