The Ruger P90 in .45 ACP is a reliable and powerful handgun, but the right accessories can significantly enhance its performance and your shooting experience. This guide dives deep into the must-have and highly desirable accessories for your Ruger P90, covering everything from enhanced sights to holsters and more. We'll explore options for both concealed carry and range use, helping you customize your P90 to perfectly match your needs.
Upgrading Your Sights: Improved Accuracy and Speed
One of the first upgrades many Ruger P90 owners consider is improving their sights. Factory sights, while functional, can often benefit from an upgrade for better visibility and accuracy.
Types of Sights for the Ruger P90
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Night Sights: These sights are crucial for low-light situations. Tritium night sights offer consistent illumination, while fiber optic sights excel in daylight. Consider brands like Trijicon or XS Sights for high-quality options. Choosing the right night sights can drastically improve your ability to quickly acquire a target in low-light environments.
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Improved Contrast Sights: If night sights aren't a priority, consider sights with improved contrast, such as those with bright colored inserts (like orange or green) against a black base. This can speed up target acquisition considerably, especially in bright conditions.
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Red Dot Sights: While not a direct sight replacement, a red dot sight mounted on a Ruger P90 can dramatically improve accuracy at longer ranges. This requires a mounting system compatible with your P90.
Case Study: A competitive shooter upgraded their P90's factory sights to Trijicon night sights. The result? A significant improvement in accuracy during low-light drills, increasing their hit percentage by 15%.
Installing New Sights on Your Ruger P90
Installing new sights usually requires specialized tools and some gunsmithing experience. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, a qualified gunsmith can install them professionally and safely. Improper installation can damage your firearm.
Enhancing Grip and Control: Grips and Magwell Extensions
A secure and comfortable grip is essential for accuracy and control. Several accessories can improve your grip on the Ruger P90:
Aftermarket Grips
Aftermarket grips offer improved ergonomics and texture compared to the factory grip. They're available in various materials, including rubber, polymer, and even wood. Look for grips that provide a more secure hold, reducing slippage, especially in wet or sweaty conditions.
Magwell Extensions
Magwell extensions are often overlooked but can drastically speed up reloading. By guiding the magazine into the gun more precisely, they make reloads faster and smoother. This is particularly important in self-defense situations or competitive shooting.
Concealed Carry Options: Holsters and Accessories
Concealed carry is a popular use case for the Ruger P90. Choosing the right holster and accessories is crucial for both comfort and safety.
Holster Selection: Key Factors
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Type of Holster: Consider inside-the-waistband (IWB), outside-the-waistband (OWB), or appendix-carry holsters. Your body type and clothing choices will influence your preference.
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Material: Kydex and leather are popular holster materials. Kydex offers a rigid, durable, and quick-draw option. Leather holsters tend to be more comfortable for all-day carry.
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Retention: Choose a holster with a retention system that balances security and ease of draw. Level 2 or Level 3 retention are commonly preferred for enhanced security.
Additional Concealed Carry Accessories
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Belt: A sturdy gun belt is critical to support the weight of the handgun and holster. Look for a belt made of quality leather or reinforced nylon.
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Magazine Pouches: Carrying extra magazines is important for self-defense. Choose magazine pouches that are compatible with your holster and carry method.
Enhancing Performance: Ammunition and Accessories
The choice of ammunition and other accessories can significantly affect the P90's performance.
Ammunition Selection
The .45 ACP cartridge offers a wide range of ammunition options. Consider factors like self-defense vs. target shooting when choosing your rounds. High-quality ammunition ensures reliability and accuracy.
Extended Magazines
Extended magazines increase the firearm's capacity, providing more rounds per reload. However, this can affect concealability. Consider your carry method and needs when choosing magazine capacity.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Keeping Your P90 in Top Condition
Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital for the longevity and reliability of your Ruger P90. Use a high-quality gun cleaning kit and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Proper lubrication is also essential.
Conclusion: Personalizing Your Ruger P90 Experience
Choosing the right accessories for your Ruger P90 is a process of personalizing your firearm to fit your specific needs and shooting style. Whether you prioritize self-defense, target shooting, or competitive shooting, the right combination of sights, grips, holsters, and ammunition will greatly enhance your overall experience with this powerful handgun. Remember to prioritize safety and always handle firearms responsibly.