The Ruger P85 is a full-size, double-action/single-action 9mm pistol developed during the mid-1980s as Ruger’s first entry into the modern semi-automatic service pistol market.
Built to survive military testing and extreme use, it features a robust investment-cast aluminum alloy frame, steel slide, and a 15+1 capacity double-stack magazine. Its DA/SA trigger, ambidextrous safety/decocker, and fixed three-dot sights made it a functional and reliable sidearm during the transition from revolvers to semi-autos in American law enforcement.
Although bulky by modern standards, the P85 is renowned for its tank-like reliability and durability—a pistol designed to work under any condition.
What is the Ruger P85 and why is it significant?
The Ruger P85 marked a pivotal point in Ruger’s history. Introduced in 1987, it was designed to compete in the U.S. military XM9 trials—a test that ultimately selected the Beretta 92FS as the M9.
While the P85 wasn’t adopted, it laid the foundation for Ruger’s P-Series pistols, influencing later models like the P89, P90, and P95.
For many gun owners of the late 1980s and early ’90s, the P85 represented a dependable, affordable alternative to the European-designed service pistols of the era.
Manufacturer background
Sturm, Ruger & Co. has a long-standing reputation for building reliable firearms for working Americans. Known for their investment casting technology and strong customer service, Ruger produced firearms that emphasized durability and value over refinement. The P85 embodied that ethos—rugged, simple, and overbuilt.
Intended purpose
The Ruger P85 was designed primarily as a duty sidearm for law enforcement and potential military use.
With its double-action/single-action trigger, ambidextrous safety, and full-size frame, it was tailored for open carry and service reliability rather than concealed carry or competition.
What are the Ruger P85’s specifications?
Core specifications
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Caliber: 9mm Luger (9x19mm)
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Action: Double-action/single-action (DA/SA), short recoil-operated
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Barrel length: 4.5 inches (early models 4.25 inches)
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Overall length: 7.8–7.9 inches
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Height: 5.6 inches
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Width: 1.2–1.3 inches
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Weight (unloaded): ~38 ounces
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Magazine capacity: 15+1 rounds (double-stack)
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Frame material: Aluminum alloy (investment-cast)
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Slide material: Carbon steel or stainless steel
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Sights: Fixed 3-dot configuration
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Safety: Ambidextrous slide-mounted safety/decocker
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Grip panels: Checkered polymer
Key design elements
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Ring-style external hammer for positive control
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Ambidextrous magazine release (some early models more awkwardly placed)
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Designed to handle military-grade durability standards
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Large ejection port for positive extraction and feeding reliability
How is the Ruger P85’s design and build quality?
Frame and construction
The Ruger P85’s design reflects its military heritage. The frame is crafted from Ruger’s investment-cast aluminum alloy, known for its strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to cracking. The slide is carbon steel (later stainless on the P85 MKII) and finished in blued or brushed configurations. The overall fit is functional rather than elegant, prioritizing reliability over aesthetics.
Ergonomics and grip
The grip is wide and angular, typical of early double-stack 9mm pistols. Shooters with smaller hands often find it bulky, but the polymer grip panels are comfortable and durable. The grip angle, roughly similar to the 1911, provides a natural point of aim, though some describe it as “blocky.”
Controls and usability
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Safety/decocker: Ambidextrous, mounted on the slide—effective but somewhat stiff and positioned higher than ideal.
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Magazine release: Dual-sided button design that’s serviceable but not as ergonomic as modern pistols.
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Trigger: The DA pull is long and heavy, breaking around 10–11 lbs; SA pull is crisp but not refined, averaging around 5–6 lbs.
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Slide stop: Oversized and easy to reach but lacks the tactile precision of modern designs.
Accessory compatibility
The P85 predates the accessory rail era, so it lacks Picatinny or light-mounting options. No optics cuts or suppressor-ready features were ever offered. It’s a classic analog service pistol—rugged, simple, and mechanical.
What are the Ruger P85 variants and model differences?
Original P85 (1987–1989)
The first production model suffered an early setback—a small number of pistols experienced firing pin safety issues leading to a recall. Ruger quickly addressed this through a retrofit program, updating affected units to the P85 MKII standard.
P85 MKII (1989–1992)
The improved model incorporated a firing pin block safety, redesigned levers, and refined internals. This variant is considered the definitive and safest P85. The MKII also introduced stainless options and minor cosmetic updates.
P89 successor (1992 onward)
Ruger discontinued the P85 in 1992 and launched the P89—a more refined version with enhanced accuracy and trigger feel. The P89 eventually gave way to later P-Series designs like the P90 (.45 ACP) and P95 (polymer frame).
Comparison with similar pistols
When compared to contemporaries like the Beretta 92FS, Glock 17, and Smith & Wesson 5906, the P85 is heavier and less refined but significantly more affordable.
It never achieved the same popularity, but many shooters praised its durability—earning the “American tank” nickname among gun enthusiasts.
User note: “The Ruger P85 is widely considered a reliable, robust “workhorse” from the late 1980s and early 90s. Owners and reviewers remark on its tank-like durability, ease of maintenance, and value as a budget service pistol, even if its ergonomics and aesthetics lag behind more modern offerings.”
How does the Ruger P85 perform on the range?
Accuracy
The P85 was never intended as a match pistol, but its accuracy is solid for defensive distances. Most shooters report consistent 4–5 inch groups at 15 yards. Its fixed 3-dot sights are adequate, though slightly undersized by today’s standards. With practice, the SA trigger mode delivers consistent, center-mass hits at 25 yards.
Recoil and control
The P85’s 38-ounce weight helps soak up recoil effectively. The low bore axis and heavy slide provide a steady impulse, making rapid follow-up shots controllable despite its old-school DA/SA trigger.
Reliability
Reliability is where the Ruger P85 shines. It’s famously dependable, even with cheap surplus or steel-cased ammunition. Many owners report firing thousands of rounds without a single stoppage. One user summarized it perfectly:
Trigger quality
The DA trigger pull is long and heavy but smooth. The single-action break is predictable, if somewhat gritty compared to modern standards. It’s functional rather than refined—ideal for duty reliability but not target precision.
What ammunition works best in the Ruger P85?
Ideal loads
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Standard target ammo: 115-grain FMJ or 124-grain ball rounds for reliable feeding.
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Defensive loads: Federal HST, Speer Gold Dot, and Hornady Critical Defense 124-grain JHPs perform well.
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+P loads: The P85’s all-metal frame easily handles +P ammunition, though extended use may accelerate wear.
Known sensitivities
The P85 is not ammo-picky. It feeds brass, steel, and aluminum-cased ammunition consistently, though older magazines can occasionally cause feeding issues with flat-nose bullets.
What is the Ruger P85 best suited for?
Concealed and self-defense use
At nearly 2.5 pounds unloaded and with a large frame, the P85 is not an ideal concealed carry gun by modern standards. However, for home defense or glove-box duty, it’s perfectly capable—offering 15+1 rounds of 9mm and a mechanical safety system that inspires confidence.
Home defense suitability
The weight and mild recoil make it a controllable, reliable option for home defense. With a loaded magazine and a light trigger pull in SA mode, it’s a solid bedside gun for those who value simplicity and durability.
Competitive use
The P85 lacks the precision and customization options needed for competitive shooting, but it’s still a fun choice for range days and casual IDPA-style matches.
Outdoor and general use
Its rugged build makes it a great truck or field gun. The alloy frame resists corrosion, and the simple DA/SA mechanism tolerates dirt and weather well.
Professional or recreational tool?
The Ruger P85 is a workhorse, not a showpiece. It excels as a reliable, affordable firearm for training, range fun, or home defense rather than concealed or duty carry by modern standards.
What are the best holsters for the Ruger P85?
A Ruger P85 holster should provide stability for the pistol’s full-size frame while maintaining accessibility for range or field use.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
A Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Ruger P85 holster offers deep concealment for those who prefer inside-the-waistband carry. It distributes the pistol’s weight comfortably and minimizes printing under loose clothing.
Belt Holster
A belt-mounted Ruger P85 holster is ideal for open carry or range sessions, providing excellent retention and quick access during drills.
OWB Paddle Holster
An OWB paddle Ruger P85 holster offers ease of wear and removal, perfect for shooters who frequently transition between carrying and training.
Swivel Drop Leg Holster
A swivel drop-leg Ruger P85 holster lowers the firearm for tactical or outdoor use, improving accessibility while wearing heavy gear or outerwear.
Chest Holster
A chest-mounted Ruger P85 holster works well for hikers, hunters, or drivers who want the pistol accessible but out of the way of waist-mounted gear.
What are the Ruger P85’s pros and cons?
Pros
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Exceptionally durable alloy frame and steel slide
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Highly reliable across all ammunition types
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Affordable, especially on the used market
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Good accuracy for a service-grade pistol
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Ambidextrous controls and simple DA/SA system
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Ruger’s lifetime service support for legacy models
Cons
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Heavy and bulky for concealed carry
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Outdated ergonomics and control placement
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Heavy double-action trigger
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Small factory sights by modern standards
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Limited aftermarket and accessory support
What is the final verdict on the Ruger P85?
The Ruger P85 is a product of its time—an overbuilt, American-made service pistol that prioritized function and endurance over finesse. It may lack the polish of modern striker-fired pistols, but it delivers reliable performance that endures decades later. For shooters seeking an affordable, dependable range or home-defense gun with a nostalgic touch, the P85 remains a worthy choice.
Its historical value also makes it a fascinating collectible piece, representing Ruger’s leap into the semi-auto era. Whether as a range workhorse or a piece of late-’80s Americana, the P85 continues to earn respect among enthusiasts.