RUGER PC CHARGER
Posted May 19, 2023
The Ruger PC Charger is an intriguing addition to the highly regarded stable of firearms produced by the Ruger Corporation, and the first pistol-caliber carbine (PCC) designed to the modernized pistol concept of a semi-automatic firearm capable of firing from a magazine. Having arrived on the market in 2020, The PC Charger comes packing features that hint at its potential for success; a modular 660mm barrel that has a threaded muzzle, an A2 birdcage style flash hider/compensator, interchangeable magazine wells that can be adapted for use with either Glock magazines or the Ruger SR/Security line of magazines, a free-floating M-Lok handguard, adjustable iron sights, and an overall light weight of just 4 ¼ pounds.
With all this potential built into its lightweight frame, it’s no wonder that the Ruger PC Charger has quickly become an industry favorite, and has even garnered praise from shooters and hunters alike. The fact of the matter is that the Ruger PC Charger truly stands out in the overcrowded market of PCCs. It promises great performance at a great price, and more than delivers on that promise.
As for the overall design of the Ruger PC Charger, the gun simply oozes quality. The frame is made of glass-filled nylon, and gives the gun a very rigid feel. The carbon steel barrel is threaded for flash hiders, and the lightweight aluminum receiver keeps things light yet incredibly strong. The carry handle is adjustable and folds down for added convenience when carrying the gun. The Ruger PC Charger has a short length of pull (LOP) of just 6.5”, making it a perfect gun for the smaller shooter, and has an overall length of just 22”, making it a great PCC for navigating tight quarters. The magazine capacity is 10 rounds, and the gun can be loaded with anything from 22 LR to 9mm.
When it comes to the performance of the Ruger PC Charger, it really is hard to beat. The gun comes with a factory muzzle brake, and the adjustable A2 bird cage suppressor helps to keep felt recoil down and muzzle blast quiet. The free-floating M-Lok handguard provides flexibility in mounting accessories, and helps make the gun more accurate. The adjustable iron sights are simple and effective, and the gun’s recoil is surprisingly light. For even more accuracy, the gun is optics-ready, with an included Picatinny rail that provides a secure platform for mounting optics and other accessories.
The Ruger PC Charger is a great PCC, and it’s no wonder that it has been so well received by shooters and hunters alike. Not only does it have excellent performance that is sure to please even the most discerning shooters, but it also has a design that is both practical and attractive. The light weight and compact size make it a great choice for the smaller shooter, and the inclusion of adjustable sights and optics-ready Picatinny rail make it perfect for the target shooter and hunter alike. The fact that the Ruger PC Charger has so much going for it, at such a reasonable price point, makes it a great choice for anyone looking for an outstanding PCC.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• The Ruger PC Charger is a very lightweight and reliable pistol, making it great for personal and home defense.
• It has an easy takedown system that allows you to quickly and safely field strip and reassemble the pistol for cleaning or repairs.
• The reversible magazine release makes it ambidextrous and easy for either left or right-handed shooters.
• It also includes an adjustable rear sight and threaded barrel for attaching a suppressor or other accessories.
Cons:
• The Ruger PC Charger has a relatively short barrel and is limited in accuracy when shooting at extended distances.
• It has a limited selection of aftermarket parts and accessories, making customization more difficult than other firearms.
• The magazine is difficult to remove and replace with the gun in battery, as it requires removing the slide to access the magazine release.
• It is also more expensive than some other self-defense pistols, with an MSRP of $799.
Who Should Buy
Anyone looking for a reliable and relatively affordable semi-automatic pistol should consider purchasing the Ruger PC Charger. The Ruger PC Charger is well-suited for traning and target shooting, and can also be used by seasoned veterans as their everyday carry.
The Ruger PC Charger should not be purchased by someone who is uncomfortable using a semi-automatic pistol. Additionally, the Ruger PC Charger is not designed for hunting or protection against large animals.
Comparisons
| Feature | RUGER PC CHARGER | Glock 19X | H&K VP9 | Walther PPS M2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight (lbs) | 2.5 | 21.1 | 1.54 | 1.3 |
| Length (in) | 18.75 | 7.44 | 7.34 | 6.3 |
| Height (in) | 5.35 | 5.47 | 5.41 | 4.4 |
| Barrel Length (in) | 6.5 | 4.02 | 4.09 | 3.2 |
| Magazine Capacity | 17+1 | 19+1 | 15+1 | 6+1, 7+1, 8+1 |
| Action | Semi-Auto | Semi-Auto | Semi-Auto | Semi-Auto |
Features / Specs
-Barrel Length: 6.5 inches
-Caliber: 9mm Luger
-Overall Length: 16.5 inches (19.25 inches with stabilizing braces attached)
-Height: 8.75 inches
-Width: 2.14 inches
-Weight: Approximately 57 oz
-Magazine: Accepts all Glock Style Magazines
-Frame: Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
-Receiver: Alloy Steel
-Stock: 3 Position Collapsible
-Sight: LR-W01 Welded Base with Adjustable Iron Sights
-Trigger Pull: 5.5 - 7.5 lbs.
Popular Accessories
9MM
The most popular accessories for the Ruger PC Charger 9mm include:
- Extended Magazine
- Grips (rubber)
- Red Dot Sight
- Flashlight/Laser Combo
- OWB Kydex Holster
- Compensator
- Forward Grip
- Extended Magazine Base Plate
- Magazine Speed Loader
- Magazinewell Funnel
Accuracy
The Ruger PC Charger is considered to be one of the most accurate pistols in its class. It is a 9mm pistol that boasts a hard-coat anodized 10/22-style receiver, a threaded barrel, Picatinny rails, and adjustable rear and pillar sights. The pistol is accurate up to medium-range distances and features improved ergonomics that make it comfortable to use even in extended shooting sessions. Additionally, the PC Charger is exceptionally reliable, which means that it will reliably cycle rounds of differing weights and lengths without any issues. The PC Charger is ideal for concealed carry, home defense, or recreational shooting; it is a reliable and accurate weapon that even experienced shooters can trust in any situation.
