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The Ruger EC9s, introduced by Ruger as a budget-friendly concealed carry option, has quickly gained popularity among everyday carriers since its release in 2018. With its compact size, 9mm chambering, and affordable price point, it’s a great choice for those looking for a reliable, easy-to-carry handgun. The Ruger EC9s 9mm is known for being lightweight and highly concealable, making it a practical option for self-defense.
However, like any firearm, the Ruger EC9s is not without its flaws. Despite its many benefits, users have reported some common issues that can affect performance. Read on to learn about the most common Ruger EC9s problems and, more importantly, how to solve them. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear idea of whether the Ruger EC9s is the right choice for you.
Meet Ruger EC9s: Main Specs & Problems Outlined
The Ruger EC9s is a compact, lightweight pistol designed for concealed carry. The Ruger EC9s comes with a 3.12-inch barrel and is chambered in 9mm, making it a practical choice for everyday defense. The Ruger EC9s 9mm has a 7+1 magazine capacity, fixed sights, and a glass-filled nylon frame, giving it a durable yet affordable build. It's not optics-ready, but it serves well as a reliable, budget-friendly Ruger pistol for personal protection.
Wanna learn more about the main features of the Ruger EC9s? Check out our detailed Ruger EC9s review to discover why this gun could be the right fit for your concealed carry needs.
Now, let’s talk about some of the most common issues that I’ve experienced with this model. In the following sections, we’ll go over problems like light primer strikes, magazine feed issues, and concerns with the trigger pull weight. These are the key issues many users encounter. Alright, without further ado, let's take a detailed look at the most troublesome Ruger EC9s issues and how they can be easily solved.
Ruger EC9s Problems: Ruger EC9s light primer strikes issue and how to fix it
One of the most common issues with the Ruger EC9s is light primer strikes. I’ve personally encountered this problem, and it’s something many other users have experienced as well. Essentially, the firing pin fails to strike the primer with enough force, causing the round to not discharge as expected. This issue typically happens intermittently, but it can be frustrating, especially in a self-defense scenario where reliability is crucial.
While the light primer strikes aren’t frequent for every Ruger EC9s owner, they can occur due to a variety of factors, such as debris buildup in the firing pin channel or a weakened striker spring. It’s an issue that can affect confidence in the pistol's overall performance, particularly when every shot counts.
How to solve Ruger EC9s light primer strikes problem
Solving the light primer strikes issue in the Ruger EC9s mainly revolves around proper maintenance and inspecting key components. The first step is to thoroughly clean the firing pin channel, as dirt and debris buildup can cause interference with the striker’s force. Regularly cleaning this area, especially after prolonged shooting sessions, helps prevent light strikes from occurring.
Another effective solution is to check the striker spring. If the spring has weakened over time, it might not provide enough force for reliable primer strikes. In this case, replacing the striker spring with a new one, or upgrading to a stronger aftermarket spring, can significantly improve the reliability of your Ruger EC9s. However, it’s important to avoid over-oiling the firing pin area, as excess oil can attract debris, worsening the issue.
Ruger EC9s Problems: Ruger EC9s magazine feed issue and how to fix it
One of the frequent problems reported by Ruger EC9s users is magazine feed issues. In my experience with the Ruger EC9s 9mm, this problem can manifest as failure to feed, where the next round in the magazine doesn’t properly chamber. This can lead to frustrating jams and interruptions during shooting sessions.
The issue is often linked to the magazine itself, where the follower or spring might not be functioning correctly. Some users have also noted that certain types of ammunition can exacerbate the problem, especially with hollow points or rounds that have slightly different dimensions. These feeding issues can make the gun less reliable in critical moments, which is a significant concern for a self-defense pistol like the Ruger EC9s.
How to solve Ruger EC9s magazine feed problem
To solve the Ruger EC9s magazine feed issue, the first step is to inspect the magazine for any visible damage or wear. The magazine spring or follower may not be functioning properly, causing rounds to fail to feed smoothly. In many cases, simply cleaning the magazine and ensuring it's free of dirt and debris can resolve the issue.
If cleaning doesn’t help, consider replacing the magazine or the spring with a new one. Sometimes, aftermarket springs provide more reliable feeding. It’s also important to test the Ruger EC9s 9mm with different types of ammunition. Some users find that using round-nose bullets instead of hollow points can significantly reduce feed issues.
For a detailed guide on fixing magazine feed problems, check out this Ruger forum discussion where other EC9s owners share their experiences and solutions to this common issue.
Ruger EC9s Problems: Ruger EC9s trigger pull weight issue and how to fix it
A common issue with the Ruger EC9s that many users, myself included, have experienced is its relatively heavy trigger pull weight. The trigger pull on this model is around 6 pounds, which can feel stiff, especially for those accustomed to lighter triggers. This heavier pull can make it difficult to maintain consistent accuracy, particularly during longer shooting sessions, as it requires more effort to fire each round.
The extra pressure needed to pull the trigger can lead to shooter fatigue, which in turn can affect the precision of follow-up shots. This is especially problematic in self-defense situations where quick and accurate shots are crucial. Additionally, for those who use the Ruger EC9s as an everyday carry pistol, this trigger weight can make it less comfortable to shoot frequently, as users may struggle with accuracy and control. The trigger weight is one of the primary complaints from EC9s owners, especially those seeking a smoother shooting experience.
How to solve Ruger EC9s trigger pull weight problem
To solve the Ruger EC9s trigger pull weight problem, the most straightforward solution is to upgrade the trigger components. Installing a lighter aftermarket trigger or replacing the factory trigger spring with a reduced-power spring can significantly decrease the pull weight, making the Ruger EC9s 9mm more comfortable to shoot. These aftermarket parts are relatively easy to find and install, often resulting in a smoother, more manageable trigger pull.
Another option is to have the trigger polished by a gunsmith, which can help reduce the friction between the internal components, leading to a slightly lighter and smoother pull. However, for those looking to keep the modifications minimal, frequent use and proper lubrication of the trigger mechanism can gradually make it feel less stiff over time.
Ruger EC9s Problems: Choosing the right Ruger EC9s holster
Choosing the right Ruger EC9s holster is essential for ensuring comfort, accessibility, and secure retention, especially given the compact nature of this pistol. With its slim profile and 3.12-inch barrel, the Ruger EC9s is designed for concealed carry, which means the holster must provide easy access without compromising discretion. When shopping for Ruger EC9s holsters, here are a few key factors to consider.
- Intended Use: Whether you're carrying the Ruger EC9s for self-defense, range use, or daily concealed carry, the holster must match the purpose. Concealed carry holsters should offer a low profile and good concealment.
- Shooter’s Experience: For newer shooters, holsters with adjustable retention or additional safety features may provide peace of mind, ensuring the gun stays securely in place.
- Preferred Carry Style: Consider whether you prefer IWB (inside the waistband), OWB (outside the waistband), or pocket carry. IWB holsters are popular for concealed carry due to their discretion, while OWB holsters might offer easier access.
- Materials: Leather holsters offer comfort and durability, molding to the body over time, while kydex holsters provide rigidity and better moisture resistance, ideal for more active use.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a Ruger EC9s holster that fits your specific needs, ensuring both comfort and reliability in your everyday carry setup.
Best Ruger EC9s holsters by Craft Holsters
When looking for the best Ruger EC9s holster, Craft Holsters is the go-to choice. Known for their high-quality, custom fit holsters, Craft Holsters offers the perfect blend of comfort, retention, and quick draw capabilities, all crafted from premium leather at a reasonable price. Each holster is specifically designed to fit the Ruger EC9s, ensuring both security and accessibility for everyday carry.
One excellent option is the Ruger EC9s Open Top IWB Holster - Lynx. This holster is crafted from premium Italian leather, providing a comfortable and secure fit for concealed carry. Its open-top design allows for a quick draw, while the custom molding ensures excellent retention, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize both discretion and fast access to their Ruger EC9s.
Another great option is the Ruger EC9s Open Top Holster - Panther, a pancake-style holster designed for outside-the-waistband carry. This holster offers a perfect balance of comfort and retention, thanks to its premium leather construction and custom fit design. Its open-top design allows for a quick and smooth draw, making it a versatile holster for both casual wear and more active use.
If you're in search of the best Ruger EC9s holster, Craft Holsters offers these top designs that combine durability, retention, and comfort, making them ideal choices for your everyday carry needs.
Conclusion - Should I buy Ruger EC9s despite its problems?
Despite its issues, the Ruger EC9s remains a solid choice for concealed carry, especially for those on a budget. The most common problems with this handgun include light primer strikes, magazine feed issues, and a heavier-than-expected trigger pull. However, as discussed in this article, each of these problems can be effectively addressed with simple fixes, ensuring the pistol remains reliable for everyday use.
One key factor for making the Ruger EC9s work for you is selecting the right holster. A well-fitted, comfortable holster ensures ease of carry and quick access, making a huge difference in overall performance.
The Ruger EC9s is ideal for those looking for an affordable, compact option for self-defense or concealed carry. It's great for individuals who are willing to maintain and make small upgrades to their firearm. However, it may not be the best choice for shooters seeking a premium, out-of-the-box performance without modifications. Based on my experience, the Ruger EC9s 9mm can definitely be a dependable companion once its quirks are addressed.
