Gun Shop Podcast

Ruger Security-9 Review: A Budget-Friendly 9mm Pistol


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Today, we’re looking at the Ruger Security-9 — a hammer-fired, polymer-framed 9mm that aims to bring serious function at a very friendly price.

Main Themes:
Affordability — The Big Selling Point.
For around $300-$400, you’re getting a full-size, American-made pistol that holds 15+1 rounds.
As one reviewer put it: “Under $300 out the door — you can't beat that for a midsize 9mm.”

It’s not just about being cheap — it’s about offering real capability at a price almost anyone can afford.

Size and Carry Options.
The Security-9 is Glock 19-sized — meaning it’s big enough for home defense and small enough for concealed carry with the right setup.
It’s a sweet spot size that covers a lot of needs without being cumbersome.

Reliability — Solid, but Know Your Limits.
Most users report few to no malfunctions, even straight out of the box with no cleaning.

  • Some experienced 2-3 minor failures over 1,000 rounds.

  • Others ran 300+ rounds with zero issues.

It’s plenty reliable for the price point, though maybe not as bombproof as higher-end duty pistols.

Trigger — Not Great, Not Terrible.
Expect a spongy feel, a long reset, and a trigger pull around 5.5–6 pounds.

  • “Better than many guns twice the price.”

  • “But don't expect it to compete with a Sig or custom Glock trigger.”

Accuracy — Good Enough for the Job.
The Security-9 is accurate enough for defensive work, especially after adjusting the sights if needed.

  • Reviewers noted small groups at 10 yards once sights were dialed in.

  • Some struggled with shots drifting high — possibly related to the trigger mechanics.

Features and Build Quality — Hits and Misses.
Good:

  • Front and rear slide serrations (rare at this price).

  • Low-profile, windage-adjustable sights.

  • Comfortable grip texture.

Not-so-good:

  • Aluminum slide rails — durable enough for most, but some worry about long-term abuse.

  • Blued carbon steel slide — not as corrosion-resistant as stainless.

  • Controls (slide stop, safety) are tiny and right-hand only.

Ergonomics.
The grip angle is good — but it feels a bit small in big hands.
Also, activating the safety can be awkward without breaking your grip.
If you're a lefty, you'll notice quickly: this is a right-handed design through and through.

Hammer-Fired Surprise.
Unlike a lot of polymer guns today, the Security-9 is hammer-fired, not striker-fired.

  • It’s been called a "big LCP" by some, given the trigger design.

  • Some even found it has an auto-forwarding feature — slam in a mag, and the slide may chamber a round automatically.

Quick Specs Recap:

  • Caliber: 9mm

  • Action: Hammer-fired, internal

  • Barrel: ~4 inches

  • Weight: ~24 ounces unloaded

  • Capacity: 15+1

  • Frame: Polymer

  • Slide: Blued carbon steel

  • Sights: Low-profile, Glock-style, windage adjustable

  • Price: ~$300 street price

  • Made in USA 🇺🇸

Potential Drawbacks:

  • Long trigger reset

  • Aluminum slide rails (durability question mark)

  • Manual safety difficult to operate fluidly

  • Basic sights

  • Not truly ambidextrous

  • Not rated for +P+ ammo

Bottom Line:
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, functional, and American-made 9mm — the Ruger Security-9 delivers serious value.
Is it as polished as a Sig P365 or a Glock 19? No.
But for $300, you get a reliable, capable gun that’s perfect for first-time buyers, budget-conscious carriers, or backup home defense roles.

As one reviewer summed it up:
"It's not fancy, but it works. And sometimes, that's exactly what you need."

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Gun Shop PodcastBy Gunprime

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