Ruger announced a new version of the LCRx revolver that has a 3″ barrel. The gun retains the five shot cylinder, but replaces the standard Hogue Tamer grip to one without the finger grooves.

The guns are chambered for the .38 Special +P. Unlike earlier versions of the LCR, this model has an adjustable rear sight. The front ramp sight is pinned. Even with a longer barrel, the gun weighs less than 16 ounces unloaded.

Since the gun is an LCRx, and not an LCR, it has an exposed hammer that may be manually cocked for single action shooting. The original LCRx has a 1.875″ barrel and weighs about two ounces less than this model.

Ruger is pitching the new LCRx as a kit gun, suitable for backpackers and the like. The light weight would certainly be appreciated by anyone carrying for a long period of time. However, the gun remains limited to five rounds, whereas other 3″ revolvers can be had with six rounds. To some, the extra round will be worth the additional ounces.

The MSRP is $529 for the gun, and they are shipping now.

The original LCR was introduced at the 2009 SHOT Show. Since that time, the line has been expanded to include models in .22 LR, .22 WMR, 9mm and .357 Magnum. In December 2013, the company announced the first LCRx model.