As a professional shooter, I’ve had the chance to put two popular handguns head to head: the Beretta APX A1 Vs Ruger Security 9.
Now, I know picking the right firearm is a big deal, especially when looking for something that meets your needs. I decided to take these two out for a spin, testing them in real-world scenarios to see which one comes out on top.
In this article, I’ll break down the details of each gun, from their specs to their performance.
| Feature | Beretta APX A1 | Ruger Security 9 |
| Type | Striker-fired, semiautomatic | Striker-fired, semiautomatic |
| Cartridge | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 10+1, 15+1, 17+1 rounds | 15+1 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.25 inches | 4 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.55 inches | 7.24 inches |
| Width | 1.3 inches | 1.02 inches |
| Height | 5.6 inches | 5 inches |
| Weight | 29 ounces | 23.7 ounces (empty magazine) |
Overview of Beretta APX A1
The Beretta APX A1 stands out as a striker-fired, semiautomatic pistol, renowned for its reliability and adaptability in various shooting scenarios.
Specs
- Type: Striker fired, semiautomatic
- Cartridge: 9mm
- Capacity: Options of 10+1, 15+1, 17+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
- Overall Length: 7.55 inches
- Width: 1.3 inches
- Height: 5.6 inches
- Weight: 29 ounces
- Sights: Steel, serrated rear, and tritium dot front
- Trigger Pull: Approximately 6 pounds
Overview of Ruger Security 9
The Ruger Security 9, a reliable and budget-friendly option, offers a blend of performance and ease of use, making it a favorite among new and experienced shooters.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Length: 7.24 inches
- Height: 5 inches
- Width: 1.02 inches
- Barrel: 4 inches, blued alloy steel
- Sights: Drift-adjustable U-notch
- Safety: Left-side thumb lever
- Weight: 23.7 ounces with an empty magazine
Features Comparison: Beretta APX A1 VS Ruger Security 9
1. Ease of Loading
Beretta APX A1
Due to its stiffer spring, the Beretta APX A1 poses a noticeable challenge in magazine loading. This stiffness can be more pronounced when trying to load the magazine to its full capacity, potentially causing inconvenience for those who may not have strong hand strength or are in situations where quick reloading is necessary.
Ruger Security 9
On the other hand, the Ruger Security 9 offers a more user-friendly experience in loading its magazines. The spring in the magazine of Security 9 is comparatively softer, making the loading process smoother and less cumbersome.
This ease of loading is beneficial for users who spend long hours at the range or need to reload quickly and efficiently. It’s particularly advantageous for those who may have issues with hand strength or dexterity.
Winner
In the aspect of ease of loading, Ruger Security 9 is the clear winner. Its magazine design and softer spring mechanism offer a more effortless and time-efficient loading process compared to the Beretta APX A1, making it a preferred choice for users who value ease and speed in reloading.
2. Sights
Beretta APX A1
The Beretta APX A1 is equipped with a well-designed sight system featuring steel, serrated black rear sights coupled with a tritium dot front sight.
This combination provides a clear and precise aiming point, enhancing targeting accuracy. The tritium dot front sight is particularly beneficial in low-light conditions, offering a luminous aiming point that aids in quick and accurate target acquisition.
Ruger Security 9
Meanwhile, the Ruger Security 9 comes with drift-adjustable U-notch sights.
These sights are effective in their own right, offering a decent level of accuracy for most shooting scenarios. However, they lack the advanced features of the Beretta’s tritium dot, particularly in low-light situations where visibility and quick sight alignment are crucial.
Winner
When it comes to sights, the Beretta APX A1 outshines the Ruger Security 9. The inclusion of the tritium dot front sight in the Beretta APX A1 provides a significant advantage in low-light conditions and overall accuracy, making it a superior choice for shooters who require precise and versatile sighting in various lighting environments.
3. Ergonomics and Handling
Beretta APX A1
The Beretta APX A1 boasts an ergonomic design with modifiable grip panels, allowing customization to fit different hand sizes. This feature ensures a comfortable and secure grip, enhancing the shooter’s control over the firearm.
Additionally, its weight and size contribute to a stable shooting experience, which is crucial for maintaining accuracy, especially in situations that require sustained fire or precision shooting.
Ruger Security 9
Contrarily, the Ruger Security 9 is designed to be more compact and lightweight. Its smaller size makes it more manageable and easier to handle, particularly for shooters with smaller hands or for those who prioritize ease of carry and maneuverability.
The lighter weight of the Security 9 can be an advantage in scenarios where agility and ease of handling are more important than the heft and stability offered by a larger firearm.
Winner
In terms of ergonomics and handling, it’s a tie between the Beretta APX A1 and the Ruger Security 9. The Beretta excels with its customizable grip and stable handling, ideal for shooters who prefer a tailored grip and steadiness.
In contrast, the Ruger Security 9’s lighter and more compact design appeals to those who value ease of handling and maneuverability. The choice between the two depends on individual preferences and specific requirements for comfort, control, and handling in various shooting conditions.
4. Trigger Mechanism
Beretta APX A1
The Beretta APX A1 features a trigger with a pull weight of around 6 pounds. It provides a crisp and consistent pull, which is a significant aspect for accuracy and quick follow-up shots. The trigger mechanism is designed to offer a balance between safety and responsiveness.
Ruger Security 9
The Ruger Security 9 has a trigger mechanism that feels slightly different. It’s designed for practical use, with a focus on safety and reliability.
The trigger pull might feel a bit heavier compared to the Beretta, but it’s still smooth and manageable for most shooters.
Winner
Beretta APX A1 excels in this feature. Compared to the Ruger Security 9, the Beretta’s trigger provides a more consistent and crisp experience, which can be a deciding factor for precision shooting.
Pros & Cons of Beretta APX A1
Pros
- Crisp trigger mechanism
- Modular grip size
- Higher round capacity options
- Tritium dot front sight for better low-light aiming
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Slightly heavier and bulkier
- Magazine loading can be stiff
- Limited sight adjustments
Pros & Cons of Ruger Security 9
Pros
- More compact and lightweight
- Easier to load magazines
- Drift-adjustable U-notch sights
- Smooth trigger pull
Cons
- Lower round capacity
- Less advanced sight system compared to Beretta
- Trigger might feel heavier for some shooters
Similarities Between Beretta APX A1 & Ruger Security 9
- Both are 9mm caliber semi-automatic pistols.
- Striker-fired mechanisms.
- Both have accessory rails for mounting lights or lasers.
- Designed for practical use and reliability.
- Similar in overall length.
Differences Between Beretta APX A1 & Ruger Security 9
- Beretta APX A1 has a modular grip system; Ruger does not.
- APX A1 has a tritium dot front sight; Security 9 has a U-notch sight.
- APX A1 is slightly heavier and bulkier than the Security 9.
- Ruger Security 9’s magazines are easier to load.
- APX A1 offers higher-capacity magazine options.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing both the Beretta APX A1 and the Ruger Security 9, it’s time to draw a conclusion. Each pistol has its strengths, catering to different preferences and requirements.
However, one emerges as a more versatile choice for a broader range of shooters. In most comparisons, the Beretta APX A1 stands out as the winner for me.
Its blend of advanced features, like the tritium dot front sight, customizable grip, and a more refined trigger mechanism, provides a superior shooting experience.
FAQ’s
What gun is similar to Ruger Security 9?
The Ruger Security 9 is quite similar to the Glock 19 in terms of size and capacity. However, the hammer-fired Security 9 offers distinct advantages over the striker-fired Glock 19.
Is the Ruger Security 9 a good carry gun?
Yes, the Ruger Security 9 is a good choice for concealed carry. Its dimensions are comparable to the Glock 19, and it’s priced more affordably, making it an appealing option for everyday carry.
Which is better, a Glock or a Ruger 9mm?
The choice between a Glock and a Ruger 9mm depends on individual preferences. The Glock is more accurate, while the Ruger has a better trigger pull and is more budget-friendly. The Ruger may not match the Glock’s mechanical accuracy but offers excellent value for its price.
Does the Beretta APX A1 have a safety?
The Beretta APX A1 is designed with safety in mind, featuring a trigger safety mechanism that prevents unintended firing, even if the pistol is dropped. It also has an internal firing pin deactivation device for additional safety.
