First Look: Ruger RXM Pistol

The new RXM handgun chambered in 9 mm Luger is the result of a collaboration between Ruger and Magpul.

by
at USPSA posted on February 6, 2025
Ruger RXM 1
Ruger collaborated with Magpul to release the RXM handgun chambered in 9 mm Luger, which sports a modular, chassis-style design that will accept different grip modules in the future. MSRP: $499.
Photo courtesy of Ruger

The world of handguns is constantly evolving as manufacturers push the boundaries of performance, precision, and innovation. The new Ruger RXM chambered in 9 mm Luger is a standout example of this evolution, representing an exciting collaboration between Ruger and the renowned firearm accessories powerhouse, Magpul. The result of this partnership is a feature-rich handgun that appeals to a wide range of users, from competitive shooters to home defenders. (Watch NRA Media’s video about the Ruger RXM handgun.)

Ruger RXM
The Ruger RXM is a Glock-pattern, chassis-style handgun that accepts factory and aftermarket grip frames produced by Magpul. (Photo by Jake Martens)

 

A GROUNDBREAKING COLLABORATION

The collaboration between Ruger and Magpul is a fusion of two industry leaders with distinct reputations. Ruger has long been celebrated for producing reliable and high-performance firearms, while Magpul has earned acclaim for its innovative and durable firearm components and accessories. The RXM is the embodiment of this synergy, combining Ruger’s expertise in firearm engineering with Magpul’s advanced design and material technology.

This partnership has resulted in a handgun that not only performs exceptionally well but also boasts a modern aesthetic and ergonomic enhancements that reflect Magpul’s signature style. The RXM features a uniquely contoured frame designed with user comfort and control in mind, offering shooters an intuitive and responsive handling experience.

RUGER RXM SPECIFICATIONS AND KEY FEATURES

Let’s take a closer look at the key specifications and features that make the RXM a standout in its class.

Fire Control Insert
Ruger’s RXM has an optics-ready slide that allows for direct mounting of optics with the RMR, DeltaPoint Pro and RMSc footprints. It also features a removable, stainless-steel Fire Control Insert (FCI) inside an interchangeable Enhanced Handgun Grip (EHG) from Magpul. (Photos by Jake Martens)

 

Barrel Length

The RXM features a precision-machined barrel that optimizes accuracy and durability. The length is ideal for a balance of maneuverability and performance, making it suitable for a variety of applications.

Slide Design

The stainless-steel slide is rugged and fitted with aggressive front and rear serrations for enhanced grip during manipulations, whether racking the slide or conducting press checks.

Magpul Frame

The polymer frame, developed in collaboration with Magpul, offers exceptional durability and lightweight performance. Its enhanced texturing and grip contours provide a secure and comfortable hold, even in adverse conditions.

Ruger RXM magazine
The Ruger RXM’s sights are Glock-pattern, and it accepts all Glock 19 pattern magazines. Each pistol ships with two Magpul PMAG GL9 15-round magazines. (Photo by Jake Martens)

 

Optics-Ready Platform

The RXM is equipped with an optics-ready slide, allowing shooters to easily mount popular red dot sights. This feature enhances target acquisition speed and precision, especially in competitive settings.

Trigger System

Ruger has included a crisp and consistent trigger pull in the RXM, contributing to better shot placement and control. The break is clean, and the reset is short, making follow-up shots smoother and faster.

Magazine Capacity

The RXM boasts a generous magazine capacity, ensuring fewer reloads during extended shooting sessions. With standard 15-round magazines and compatibility with extended magazines, this handgun is ready for both defensive scenarios and high-round-count competitions.

Ruger RXM front sight
Co-witness-height steel sights include a tritium night front sight. (Photo by Jake Martens)

 

ERGONOMICS AND CONTROL

The Magpul-designed frame incorporates a high beavertail and undercut trigger guard, promoting a higher grip that aids in recoil control. This design choice allows shooters to maintain better muzzle control during rapid fire, improving accuracy and follow-up shot placement.

Additionally, the frame is molded with modular grip panels that can be swapped out to fit different hand sizes, ensuring a personalized and comfortable grip for every shooter. Whether you have smaller hands or prefer a thicker profile, the RXM accommodates your needs with ease.

Magpul EHG
The Magpul Enhanced Handgun Grip features a 3/4-scale TSP texture, along with textured indexing pads. (Photos by Jake Martens)

 

PERFORMANCE IN THE FIELD

The Ruger RXM is not just a collection of impressive specifications—it delivers exceptional performance on the range and in real-world scenarios. Testers have praised its balanced weight distribution, noting that the handgun points naturally and mitigates recoil effectively. The optics-ready platform further enhances its capabilities, allowing shooters to equip their preferred red-dot sight for faster target transitions.

The combination of the reliable 9 mm Luger cartridge, precise barrel and refined trigger results in impressive shot groups, even during rapid-fire sequences. This makes the RXM a viable option for USPSA competitors who demand consistent performance and reliability from their equipment.

Magpul’s influence is evident in the RXM’s subtle but impactful details. The grip texture strikes a perfect balance between aggressive and comfort, ensuring a firm hold without causing discomfort during extended shooting sessions. The slide release and magazine release are ambidextrous, catering to both right- and left-handed shooters. These thoughtful features underscore Ruger’s and Magpul’s commitment to creating a firearm that prioritizes user convenience and performance.

Slide top view
The Ruger RXM’s alloy steel slide has a black FNC nitride finish. Slide width is one inch. The four-inch alloy steel barrel also has a black FNC nitride finish. (Photos by Jake Martens)

 

VERSATILITY FOR EVERY SHOOTER

The Ruger RXM’s versatility makes it suitable for various shooting disciplines and roles. It can serve as a duty firearm, thanks to its robust design and dependable operation. At the same time, its precision and customizable features make it an excellent choice for competition shooting and recreational range use. Additionally, the lightweight polymer frame and sleek profile make it a viable option for concealed carry, especially with the availability of compact grip modules.

With the introduction of the RXM chambered in 9 mm Luger, Ruger has once again proven its dedication to innovation and performance. This handgun exemplifies what can be achieved when two industry leaders collaborate with a shared vision of creating a superior firearm. The RXM combines modern design elements with practical functionality, making it a standout choice for shooters who demand the best from their handguns.

Whether you’re a competitor looking to shave seconds off your times, a defender seeking a reliable tool or simply a firearm enthusiast eager to experience cutting-edge design, the Ruger RXM is ready to deliver. This handgun not only elevates Ruger’s product line but also sets a new benchmark for what a modern 9 mm should be.

MSRP for the Ruger RXM is $499. Go to ruger.com.

Article from the January/February 2025 issue of USPSA’s magazine.

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