![From Ruger, new MAX-9 micro-compact pistol The MAX-9 is a 9mm striker-fired, polymer framed pistol](https://www.all4shooters.com/en/shooting/pistols/ruger-new-max-9-micro-compact-pistol/max-9-is-a-9mm-striker-fired-polymer-framed-pistol.jpg?resize=227306:250x&cid=1ge7.4sqc)
Another fierce competitor enters the hot market of compact and sub-compact everyday carry pistols – or EDCs for short: Ruger has just unveiled its new MAX-9, “a pistol with all the features of a full-sized handgun in a size that is comfortable for everyday carry,” according to the manufacturer's claim.
![From Ruger, new MAX-9 micro-compact pistol The MAX-9 features a tritium fiber optic day/night front sight and is optic ready](https://www.all4shooters.com/en/shooting/pistols/ruger-new-max-9-micro-compact-pistol/ruger-max-9-with-tritium-fiber-optic-day-night-front-sight-and-is-optic-ready.jpg?resize=db5c35:250x&cid=1ge8.4sqc)
Chambered in 9mm Luger and featuring an alloy steel 3.2"/81 mm barrel, the Ruger MAX-9 is a striker-fired micro-compact gun with a very respectable 12+1 capacity even if It measures just 6"/152 mm long, with a slide width of less than 1"/25 mm and a weight of 18.4 oz/521 g. It has been in fact designed to fit comfortably in an inside-the-waistband holster or pocket holster, or even in a concealed carry purse.
Ruger MAX-9: available in Pro and Standard models
![From Ruger, new MAX-9 micro-compact pistol The pistol is fitted here with a 10-round magazine.](https://www.all4shooters.com/en/shooting/pistols/ruger-new-max-9-micro-compact-pistol/ruger-max-9-rear-sight-is-drift-adjustable.jpg?resize=31d5c5:250x&cid=1ge9.4sqc)
The MAX-9 construction includes a through-hardened alloy steel slide with black oxide finish, one-piece precision-machined fire control chassis and high-performance, glass-filled nylon grip frame. It comes with a long list if appreciable features, starting with a tritium fiber optic day/night front sight – the gun actually is optic ready for direct mounting of co-witnessed JPoint and Shield-pattern micro red dot sights. Rear sight is drift-adjustable.
![From Ruger, new MAX-9 micro-compact pistol The Standard models are available with an 1911-style thumb safety](https://www.all4shooters.com/en/shooting/pistols/ruger-new-max-9-micro-compact-pistol/ruger-max-9-pistol-side-view.jpg?resize=ea9eee:250x&cid=1gea.4sqc)
Standard models are available with a 1911-style thumb safety, while Pro models are available without the external manual safety lever. An integrated trigger safety and a loaded chamber viewport for visual confirmation of a loaded or empty chamber, are standard in all models. Magazine release is reversible.
The new Ruger carry pistol ships with two E-Nickel TeNon coated magazines: one 12- and one 10-round, or two 10-round magazines. The 12-round magazine offers a finger grip extension floorplate. Price of both the Standard and Pro models in the US is $499.
Ruger MAX-9 specs and price
Model: | MAX-9 |
Caliber: | 9mm Luger (9x19 mm) |
Overall Length: | 6"/152 mm |
Barrel Length: | 3.2”/81 mm |
Height: | 4.52"/115 mm |
Slide Width: | 0.95”/24 mm |
Weight: | 18.4 oz/521 g |
Magazine Capacity: | 12+1 or 10+1 |
Safety Options: | With external manual safety lever (Standard Model) or without the external manual safety lever (Pro Model) |
Price (MSRP): | 499 USD |