Ruger LC Carbine .45 ACP 16.25 in Desert Verde 13rd
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Ruger LC Carbine is a modern sporting semi-automatic rifle chambered in .45 ACP that delivers handgun-caliber ballistics from a 16.25-inch carbine platform. This specific model features a Desert Verde finish, collapsible Magpul stock, and threaded barrel for suppressor compatibility. At 7.1 pounds unloaded, it bridges the gap between compact handling and full-length rifle stability.
What is the Ruger LC Carbine used for?
The LC Carbine serves as an ideal home defense and training platform that leverages .45 ACP's manageable recoil. Its 16.25-inch barrel provides approximately 100-150 feet per second velocity increase over typical handguns while maintaining the cartridge's subsonic characteristics. I recommend it for shooters who want rifle ergonomics with readily available ammunition.
How does the Ruger LC Carbine compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The LC Carbine offers faster follow-up shots than the bolt-action Stevens 334 due to its semi-automatic operation. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win delivers superior long-range energy, the Ruger provides better close-quarters handling with its 13-round capacity versus the Stevens' 3-round internal magazine. For defensive scenarios under 100 yards, the Ruger is objectively superior.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This carbine weighs 7.1 pounds empty and extends from 28.5 inches collapsed to 31.75 inches fully extended. The 16.25-inch barrel keeps overall length manageable while providing full legal compliance without NFA considerations. Balance point sits 4 inches forward of the magazine well, making it feel lighter than the scale indicates.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for hunters needing long-range performance or competition shooters seeking light trigger pulls. The .45 ACP drops significantly beyond 100 yards, and the 6.5-pound trigger won't satisfy precision shooters. If you need reach beyond 200 yards, consider the Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You get one 13-round magazine, the carbine with installed Ruger Radial Port Muzzlebrake, and basic documentation. Unlike some competitors, Ironclad Armory includes a thread protector for when you're not running a suppressor. The package ships in a 36x12x4 inch cardboard box with appropriate padding.
Is the Ruger LC Carbine worth it at $933.99?
At $933.99, this represents solid value for a suppressor-ready platform with premium features. The Magpul stock alone retails for $75, and the threaded barrel adds $150 value over non-threaded versions. Compared to custom-built PCCs starting at $1,200, this offers Ruger's warranty and out-of-the-box functionality.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 16.25-inch threaded barrel - ready for suppressors without modification
- 7.1 lb weight - 2.3 lbs lighter than comparable AR-45 platforms
- Collapsible Magpul MOE SL stock - 3.25 inches of adjustment range
- M-LOK compatibility - accepts modern accessories without proprietary rails
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazines - limits aftermarket options compared to Glock-compatible PCCs
- 6.5 lb trigger pull - heavier than competition-grade triggers averaging 3-4 lbs
- Desert Verde finish shows wear more visibly than matte black anodizing
Key attributes
| upc | 736676193189 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 19318 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | MODERN SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 16.25" |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 13 |
| color | DESERT VERDE |
| length | 36.4000 |
| model | LC Carbine |
| number of magazines | 1 13 rd. |
| package height | 3.8 |
| package width | 8.8 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.6 |
| sights | Front/Rear Flip Sights |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with Glock magazines?
- No, the LC Carbine uses Ruger's proprietary 13-round magazines, not Glock pattern magazines. The magazine well is specifically designed for Ruger's SR-series pistol magazines. You'll need to purchase additional magazines from Ruger or authorized dealers.
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the 16.25-inch barrel features .578x28 threading compatible with most .45 caliber suppressors. The threads are cleanly cut and protected by a included thread protector. I recommend using SilencerCo Octane 45 or Rugged Obsidian 45 suppressors for optimal performance.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via FedEx Ground, typically arriving in 3-7 business days depending on location. All firearms shipments require FFL transfer, so factor in additional time for your local dealer's paperwork processing.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for mechanical defects, but firearms must be inspected upon receipt. If you discover issues, contact their support team within 72 hours of FFL transfer. Ruger's lifetime warranty covers manufacturer defects regardless of retailer.