- Alfred Mendoza
- June 2, 2023
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?
Table of Contents
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.
Many find the extended magazine harder to conceal carry, but we think it adds a substantial length to make the grip better and more comfortable to hold on to.
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
Taurus TCP or Ruger LCP: Here’s Our Pick
When we tested Taurus TCP vs Ruger LCP on the range, we found both .380 concealed carry pistols to be functional and reliable. But there are unique differences that make the TCP stand out. Aside from the more modern look, we are impressed with its excellent trigger, smooth slide lock, and very profound sights. Not to mention that it’s cheaper by around $50 when compared to LCP Ruger. We recommend you take a look at Taurus TCP if you’re in the market for a new pocket handgun.
Are you looking for more concealed carry pistols? Read about Glock 19 and HK P2000 here.
Our #1 Recommendation
Taurus TCP
- Cheaper price range
- Impressive slide lock
- Reliable and accurate sights
- Smooth and light trigger
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