The Ultimate Firearms Destination for the Gun Lifestyle

Ruger Max-9 First Look on RECOILtv



At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Learn More

The Ruger Max-9 enters the pack to compete against the Sig P365, the Springfield Hellcat, and similar firearms. Iain takes a look at the new defensive-focused handgun, from sights to trigger, to where the Max-9 saves money. Known for bringing blue-collar value to their self-defense handguns and pistol caliber carbines, Ruger has thrown their hat in the pool of optics-ready sub-compact EDC pistols.

 

 

When compared side-to-side with the Hellcat and P365, the Ruger Max-9 sat between them as far as triggers go, and the sights far exceed what some ship with. Let's take a look as the spec sheet from Ruger again:

  • Striker-fired with a short, smooth trigger pull, clean break and positive reset.
  • Slim, lightweight and compact for personal protection while still providing a capacity of up to 13 rounds of 9mm Luger ammunition.
  • Rugged construction with through-hardened alloy steel slide; one-piece, precision-machined fire control chassis; and high-performance, glass-filled nylon grip frame.
  • Medium-textured grip frame provides a secure and comfortable grip.
  • Tritium fiber optic day/night front sight for high visibility and drift adjustable rear sight.
  • Optic ready for direct mounting of co-witnessed JPoint and Shield pattern micro red dot sights.
  • Cold hammer-forged barrel results in ultra-precise rifling that provides exceptional accuracy and longevity.
  • Safety features include integrated trigger safety, internal striker blocker and inspection port that allows for visual confrmation of a loaded or empty chamber.
  • Reversible magazine release.
  • Also includes: two nickel-Teflon coated magazines and finger grip extension floorplate that can be added to the magazine for comfort and improved grip.

Ruger Max-9 cover

Find out more about the Ruger Max-9 at: ruger.com


More from Ruger

Why you can trust RECOIL


Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. 

Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. 

At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. 

Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products.


Enter Your E-Mail to Receieve a Free 50-Target Pack from RECOIL!

NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOIL

For years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included).

Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.

You want this. Trust Us.

Add a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to the Free
Newsletter
×