Ruger 5.7x28mm Folding LC Carbine: First Look

Sturm, Ruger & Company has announced a new lightweight, compact LC Carbine chambered in 5.7x28mm. The compact nature of this carbine owes to its bolt-over-barrel design and feeding through the grip. The Ruger LC Carbine has a full 16.25" barrel, features a reversible side-folding stock adjustable for length of pull, and is compatible with Picatinny rail-mounted accessory stocks. The stock and Rapid Deploy adjustable sights can be folded for storage.

Utilizing the same magazines and controls as the innovative Ruger-5.7 pistol, the LC Carbine is the ultimate range companion. Even when using typical 40-grain 5.7x28mm jacketed bullets, this high-performing carbine’s felt recoil is comparable to a .22LR. Like the Ruger-5.7 pistol, the LC Carbine utilizes Ruger's safe, reliable and proven Secure Action fire-control mechanism that combines a protected internal hammer with a bladed-safety trigger that has a short, smooth pull, clean break and positive reset. The fluted, nitride-coated alloy steel barrel is durable and lightweight and allows for the attachment of standard muzzle accessories.

With an MSRP at $979, the Ruger LC Carbine sits at a nice, affordable price point for a unique firearm like this that’s packed with features. The 5.7x28mm cartridge is making a comeback, and the LC Carbine can unleash the cartridge’s full potential with its carbine-length barrel. For those that already own the Ruger-5.7 pistol, the LC Carbine is a no-brainer, and it’s an excellent option for anyone that’s a fan of the 5.7x28mm. Keep an eye out for a complete review in an upcoming issue of RifleShooter magazine.