Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. More Info

About the Gun

The original Ruger P85,fused Browning-style short-recoil mechanics with Sig-inspired double-action/single-action ergonomics, all wrapped in a stainless slide and aluminum alloy frame. Its grip panels textured with horizontal serrations offered a secure, weather-resistant hold, while the ambidextrous magazine release and high-capacity staggered-column design doubled the firepower of the era’s 1911s without ballooning the grip. Built for the U.S. military’s XM9 trials, it delivered rugged reliability at a working-man’s price, though early units revealed a firing-pin safety flaw that prompted Ruger’s proactive recall and retrofit program. Collectors prize pristine pre-recall examples for their place in handgun history, yet even field-worn survivors remain dependable range companions that shrug off neglect and cheap ammunition.

Production

This model was produced from 1987 through 1988.

Market value

The last MSRP for this gun was $299 (circa 1990). The current market value for one in 95% condition ranges from $300 to $370.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	9 mm Luger
Alias:	9 mm Parabellum
More Info

Analysis

The P85’s blocky aluminum frame and high bore axis yield a mild 9mm recoil (soft flip, fast recovery), but the DA trigger (12 lb, long/stacked) and SA (5.5 lb, crisp reset) demand practice. Ergonomics are dated—fat grip, short slide stop, but ambidextrous controls shine. Accuracy: 2.5–3 MOA with 124 gr FMJ from bags; 4–5" groups at 25 yd off-hand. Reliable with quality mags, but early extractors can stutter on steel-cases. Solid duty iron for the era, outclassed by modern strikers in speed and refinement.