Ruger LCP kicks like...

[PA86]

Fill in the blank.

But if you can compare it to a G26 or S+W Airweight J-frame in .38 I'll know what you're talking about.

[Gunny1969]

It kicks almost as bad as a 38 cal derringer that I used to have.
I've own a G26, a Keltec 380, a snub nose 38, and a derringer in 38.

In order of most kick or discomfort of shooting:

1. Derringer 38
2. Keltec 380
3. Snub nose 38
4. G26 (I could shoot this all day long)

[Tomcat088]

I don't know exactly what to compare it to because I haven't shot that many compact pistols. I will say that I held onto it well, and have very strong hands and wrists. I thought the recoil was pretty snappy, and obviously a short sight radius. I was more accurate with it than I thought I would be, I always hear about how inaccurate they are. Not that it was super accurate, but I just focused on the sights and the trigger pull. It was snappy, not intolerable, but probably not a pistol I'd want to shoot all day long.

[PocketProtector]

With good technique, hardly at all.

[ByAnyMeans]

I have a P3AT and a G26. The G26 is like a 22lr compared to the P3AT. I can shoot the Glock all day long but only put a few magazines through the P3AT each range session.

I have found that KT addons have little pads for the front and back as well as a grip. They work great and along with tweaking my handgrip makes this little gun tameable.

[24/7dude]

a mule, right?

[RoyJackson]

With a good grip, about like a .38 special in a lightweight snubby...not bad at all. But, add emphasis to "a good grip".
Having the extension on the magazine does help gripping this fine little gun, btw.
I was shooting Hornady Critical Defense when I made this evaluation.

[synergy]

I think it's probably the most annoying pistol I've ever shot.

I have very big hands, so when I grasp it tightly, I'm pretty much pulling the trigger finger with my second knuckle.

It's about as snappy as pistols get, IMO. I generally refuse to shoot them, when people offer up the opportunity to me. I'll shoot them if people are having problems with them, but that's about it.

It's not a gun people shoot for pleasure.

[thelemite]

A p3at. As it is one.

A slip on grip helps, but it's snappy.

For the record, a lws380 is worse.

[knighthawk06699]

a mule....

Yeah for sure not a joy to shoot. But in a pinch it will keep you alive.