Ruger LCP or Kel-Tec P3AT?

[Grey Bearded One]

Shop A has a used Ruger LCP for just over $200. Shop B has a used Kel-Tec P3AT for just under $200.

The Kel-Tec is one ounce lighter but that about the only difference. All of the other dimensions vary by only a few hundreths of an inch.

Thoughts on the choice?

[M&P Chris]

I have owned both and much preferred the LCP. They both carried the same but I couldn't get reliability out of the kel Tec.

[bluetrane2028]

I chose the LCP when I had a similar choice. Sold the LCP after getting my Glock 43.

[*Klutch*]

I had the same experience as Chris I couldn't get my p3at to be reliable. My lcp has been perfect

[Don Quixote]

Mu dad has a P3AT and I have an LCP. No comparison, fit and finish on the Ruger is better and the P3AT has an annoying habit of dropping the mag. At least for me, on this particular Kel Tec the mag release button is easy to press while shooting.

I would pay more for the Ruger. If the price is the same it's no question

[brian]

the ruger has better sights.

[IrocGuns]

Great question! I've handled both the ruger and the kel-tec extensively. In the LCP/P3AT size, the ruger has a better trigger and I would describe as being a refined version of the kel-tec. My money would lean towards the ruger (the price difference is not significant)

Now having said that, the first generation LC9 versus the keltec pf9, I found the keltec the better pistol...what I understand is the shortcomings of the LC9 have essentially been addressed in the newer model but I haven't handled it.

[father-of-five]

I have had good experiences with p3ats, even an older, well used one with a very sensitive magazine release. Once I started using magazines without a finger rest, the magazine never dropped.

[JW1914]

Ruger LCP no contest. Keltec pistols are fun but not reliable enough to carry and trust your life with.... Just my opinion.

I have a 2nd gen LCP (there's 3 generations now) and it's been great. 100% reliable with FMJ and JHP. I carry it with Speer gold dots and have the specific hogue grip made for the gun that helps immensely.

[dkf]

The LCP is nicer built little pistol vs the keltec. Mine has been reliable thus far. I have the old model with the dash in the SN, my dad has the newer model that he bought about a year ago. The "sights" are larger on it and trigger is lighter with less travel.