Ruger LCP 2 vs Glock 42: Which Is The Superior Pocket Pistol?
If you’re looking for a reliable, pocket-sized pistol for concealed carry, both the Ruger LCP 2 and the Glock 42 are excellent choices. These small but efficient firearms are commonly used in self-defense applications, and are popular for good reason.
When comparing the Ruger LCP 2 vs Glock 42, it’s impossible to say that one is definitively better than the other, although they do have some differences that may make one more appealing to you.
While both are subcompact pistols, the LCP 2 is smaller than the G42 and has a single-action trigger, while the Glock 42 is striker-fired. Both feature internal safety mechanisms and are chambered in .380 ACP with a magazine capacity of 6.
In this article, we’ll break down the differences between these two pocket pistols to help you determine which will best suit your needs.
Products Mentioned In This Article
Glock 42
For Glock fans looking for the smallest pistol available, the Glock 42 is the way to go. Its ultra-compact size and smooth shooting experience have given it a strong reputation in the concealed carry world.
Chambered in .380 Auto, this striker-fired pistol features a black polymer frame and a Tenifer-coated ordinance-grade steel slide. Like most Glocks, it’s equipped with the Safe-Action trigger system, which consists of three independent mechanical safeties. The standard magazine holds 6 rounds, but if you’re after a bit more capacity, extended mags are available.
Measuring under an inch wide, the Glock 42 is one of the slimmest models Glock makes. It's a great option for deep concealment in any carry position. You can browse these pistols here, or check out our selection of Glock 42 holsters.
Ruger LCP 2 .380
After the success of the Ruger LCP, the company released an updated design in 2016 — the Ruger LCP 2.
You can read our comparison of the LCP vs LCP 2 here.
While a few features set the LCP 2 apart from its predecessor, including its larger grip, easy-to-rack slide, and improved sights, the main improvement reflected in the LCP 2 is its trigger. The LCP 2’s trigger is designed to be shorter, crisper, and safer than the original LCP.
Like the original, the new and improved centerfire pistol is built with a through-hardened alloy steel slide and glass-filled nylon grip frame. The Ruger LCP 2 comes standard with a 6-round magazine and is chambered in 380 Auto, though extended magazines are available. The LCP 2 is also available in a lighter .22 LR model.
At the end of the day, the LCP 2 was designed to take what everyone fell in love with about the LCP and improve on it. You can browse these pistols here or check out our selection of Ruger LCP 2 holsters.
LCP 2 vs Glock 42: Specs
Glock 42 vs LCP 2: Size & Capacity
Although both the Ruger LCP 2 and the Glock 42 are considered subcompact pistols, are chambered in .380 Auto, and have a 6-round capacity, the LCP 2 is noticeably smaller than the G42.
The Ruger LCP 2 weighs 10.6 ounces and measures 3.71 inches tall, 0.9 inches wide, and 5.17 inches long with a barrel length of 2.75 inches. The Glock 42, on the other hand, weighs 13.76 ounces and measures 4.13 inches tall, 0.98 inches wide, and 5.94 inches long with a barrel length of 3.25 inches.
LCP 2 vs Glock 42: Frame, Slide & Barrel
The G42 is designed with a subcompact black polymer frame and built-in beaver tail for a high and tight grip. It also has a Tenifer-coated ordinance-grade steel slide with rear serrations.
The subcompact LCP 2 has a through-hardened alloy steel slide, a glass-filled nylon grip frame, a blued alloy steel barrel, and an easy-to-rack slide with an improved slide stop mechanism with a last-round hold-open.
Glock 42 vs Ruger LCP 2: Sights & Optics
Although neither pistol comes optics-ready, the Ruger LCP 2 comes standard with high-visibility fixed front and rear sights integral to the slide. The Glock 42 is built with the manufacturer’s standard plastic sights, though aftermarket sights are readily available for both.
Ruger LCP 2 vs Glock 42: Controls
Trigger
While the Glock 42 has a striker-fired trigger, the LCP 2 has a short single-action trigger. The 42’s trigger functions with a light take-up and more of a rolling break, and the LCP 2 has a smooth, short trigger pull with a clean break and a positive reset.
Safety
Neither of these pistols is equipped with a manual thumb safety. However, both feature internal safety mechanisms.
The Ruger LCP 2 features Ruger’s Secure Action fire-control system, combining a protected internal hammer with a bladed-safety trigger. It also has an integrated trigger safety and hammer catch.
The Glock 42, on the other hand, is equipped with Glock’s Safe Action trigger system, which consists of three independent mechanical safeties that disengage as the trigger is pulled and re-engage as it is released.
FAQ: Glock 42 vs LCP 2
Is a 9mm Better Than a .380 for Concealed Carry?
There is great debate in the gun community about whether the .380 ACP round is as effective as 9mm for self-defense. Some argue that the .380 does not have enough stopping power for concealed carry, while others prefer these guns due to their smaller size.
Here’s the truth. The .380 ACP has been one of the most popular calibers in smaller handguns for over a century, and is considered the minimum caliber for concealed carry.
Although it’s true the .380 ACP does not have the same energy or long-distance accuracy as larger calibers like 9mm or .45, it does have more than enough stopping power to be lethal. This, combined with the small size of most .380 pistols, makes them a popular and sufficient choice among concealed carriers and law enforcement alike for everyday carry or as a backup weapon.
To take a deep dive into this topic, check out our article breaking down the best calibers for self-defense.
Is the Glock 42 Good for Pocket Carry?
Although most people think of micro compact pistols when it comes to pocket carry, the subcompact G42 is the smallest Glock firearm and is still an excellent choice for this form of carry.
The G42 is on the small side for a subcompact, and is just a hair longer than what would be considered a standard pocket pistol, which are often slated as having a barrel length of 3 inches or less. With a barrel length of 3.25 inches and a weight of 13.76 ounces, the Glock 42 is still comfortable and easy to conceal during pocket carry.
To learn more about what constitutes a pocket pistol and find more recommendations for this method of carry, check out our lineup of the Best Pocket Pistols for Concealed Carry here.
Which is Right For Me?
When comparing the Ruger LCP 2 vs Glock 42, it’s hard to declare one as clearly better than the other, though each has unique differences that might make one a better fit for your needs. While both are subcompact pistols, the LCP 2 is more compact and uses a single-action trigger, whereas the Glock 42 is striker-fired. Both are chambered in .380 ACP with a 6-round magazine and include internal safety features.
At the end of the day, the best choice for you comes down to your personal preference. Looking for a reliable, custom-fit holster for one of these models? Visit our Holsters by Gun Model page to find Kydex holsters tailored to your firearm. Not sure which holster is right for you? Take a look at our interactive comparison tool to view holsters side-by-side and filter by feature. Plus, explore our Resources Page for gear recommendations, concealed carry guides, and exclusive content to elevate your carry system.
