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As soon as the .380 pistols hit the market, we knew we could trust our lives on these babies. The Taurus TCP vs Ruger LCP .380 pocket pistols have the right weight and bulge to carry and conceal no matter what garment or gear you’re wearing. But could one be better than the other?
Ruger LCP & Taurus TCP - What are the Differences?
While we find LCP Ruger reasonably-priced for its caliber, Taurus TCP is cheaper when it comes to pricing. When it comes to design, Taurus TCP looks slightly better. During our shooting test, though, Ruger LCP’s grip felt better, especially with the magazine extension that allows your finger to rest.
However, LCP’s trigger didn’t feel quite right as we think it’s pushed too far. TCP’s trigger was impressive as we found it smooth and light. Taurus TCP’s slide movement was more precise as the slide was conveniently locked back after the last round. On the other hand, the slide serrations on the LCP Ruger is not as well-manufactured. The slide also didn’t lock after the final round was fired.
Specification Chart
Taurus TCP
- Brand: Taurus
- Model: 738 TCP
- Height: 3.7 in
- Weight: 10.2 oz
- Length: 5.2 in
- Trigger: DAO
- Barrel: 2.8 in
- Calibers: 380 ACP
- Capacities: 6 +1 (380 ACP)
Ruger LCP
- Brand: Ruger
- Model: LCP
- Height: 3.6 in
- Weight: 9.6 oz
- Length: 5.16 in
- Trigger: DAO
- Barrel: 2.75 in
- Calibers: 380 ACP
- Capacities: 6 +1 (380 ACP)
Similar Features
In-Depth Comparison
Design & Ergonomics
Taurus TCP & LCP Ammunition
Both TCP Taurus and LCP Ruger .380 pistols hold six rounds in the magazine.
With an available extended grip magazine, both can also hold 7 plus one round, making it 8.
The extended magazine still makes these pistols easy for concealed carry, and the added length makes it more comfortable to shoot.
If you’re looking for rifle ammo, why not check out 308 vs 458 SOCOM here?

Reliability
Accuracy of TCP & Ruger LCP
Trigger

The trigger on the Taurus TCP is a work of art, in our opinion. It’s light, smooth, and just the right size that we’re looking for. For a double-action-only gun, we were surprised to find a trigger this impressive, and within an affordable price range, too. With the Ruger LCP, we find the trigger weird and uncomfortable, to the point of being toy-like. It’s pushed forward too much that there’s no more space available for the firing finger. The trigger’s surface area is quite limited, as well.
If you want to try your hand at striker-fired handguns, check out this blog on Glock 43 vs Walther PPS M2.
LCP Ruger vs TCP Taurus Pricing
Sights - Ruger LCP or TCP Taurus?
Slide Operation

Ruger LCP Pros & Cons
PROS
- A bit lighter than Taurus TCP
- Reasonably-priced
- Manageable recoil
- Solid and ergonomic grip
CONS
- Long trigger pull
- Slide operation isn't smooth
Taurus TCP Pros & Cons
PROS
- More profound sights
- Short trigger pull
- Cheaper than Ruger LCP
- Smooth and precise slide operation
CONS
- Lacks finger rest on the magazine
- No Longer Produced