Best Ruger Max-9 Upgrades (Top 5)
Looking for the best Ruger Max-9 Upgrades and Accessories? This post will cover the best parts to add to your Ruger Max-9, making it a better pistol.
The Ruger Max-9 comes optics-ready, so adding a red dot is a must. The trigger can use some work, and swapping it out for a new aftermarket trigger will allow you to shoot the gun more accurately.
Here are the Best Ruger Max-9 Upgrades & Accessories…
Best Ruger Max-9 Upgrades & Accessories
This list is the Top 5 things I recommend doing to your pistol. These upgrades will completely change the feel and performance of the pistol.
If you want to see my Ruger Max-9 Review, you can check it out. That article has a link if you want to purchase a new Ruger Max-9 or if you need to download the owner’s manual.
1. Optics
A few different red dot sights will work on the Ruger Max-9 without any modification.
- Ruger ReadyDot
- Holosun 507K
- Bushnell RX Micro
- Crimson Trace 1500 Series
- Jpoint MRD
- Shield RMS
- Shield RMS2
- Shield RMSc
- Shield RMSw
- Shield SMS
- Shield SMS2
- Shield SMSc
- Sig Romeo Zero
- Sightmark Mini Scout A-Spec M3
- Swampfox Sentinel
- Bushnell RX Micro
Note: These are currently what red dot sights work at the time of writing. In the future, there will be more red dots that will work on the Ruger Max-9.
Of all those options, I recommend the Holosun 507K and the Sig Romeo Zero. These are excellent choices, but I will recommend the Holosun 507K more.
Holosun 507K-X2
The Holosun 507K-X2 is an excellent sight for the money. I really like this sight, and it is my “go-to” micro red dot.
This optic uses a circle dot, similar to the EOTech’s reticle. Some people do not like this style and prefer a single dot.
It has a 2 MOA-sized dot perfect for a concealed carry pistol. The circle is a 32 MOA.
There are two simple buttons on the side for brightness adjustment and programming. With these buttons, you can set your red dot to turn on when it senses motion, for example.
For brightness, there are 12 different levels, and 2 of them are night vision compatible.
If you are new to red dots on pistols, it might take a while to get used to drawing and presenting the firearm and quickly picking up the red dot with your eye.
You will draw and point the Ruger Max-9 with practice and repetition and get the perfect sight picture every time.
The Holosun 507K-X2 runs on a single CR1632 battery that is easily removed from the side without removing the red dot and losing your zero. A single battery can have a 50,000-hour battery life.
The reticle will start flashing as an indicator when the battery is getting low.
It is a strong, durable optic that is robust because of the aluminum housing. The housing also has a rear sight notch cut-out that can be used in a pinch.
The housing does a great job of holding zero and uses 1 MOA adjustment per click when zeroing.
This is a good optic for a pistol, especially for personal protection, which is why I highly recommend it.
If you want to see my full, in-depth review, here is my post on the Holosun 507K-2 Review.
Holosun 507K-X2
- 2 MOA
- Red Dot (Green version is also available)
- 12 different brightness settings (2 are night vision compatible)
- CR1632 Battery Type – 50,000 hours of runtime
- Parallax-free & Unlimited Eye Relief
- Designed for CCW
- IP67 Waterproof
Price Check: Optics Planet, Palmetto State Armory, Brownells, Primary Arms, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shop, GunMag Warehouse, Amazon
Sig Romeo Zero
The next optic I recommend for the Ruger Max-9 is the Sig Romeo Zero. This is a great, affordable option, especially on a budget.
Let me start by saying that this is not the best optic out there, and I recommend the Holosun before the Romeo Zero.
This optic will work if you are on a budget.
This small, lightweight, compact reflex-style sight is designed for pistols like the Ruger Max-9.
Most people choose this red dot for pistols because the entry price is low, and people are unsure if they will even like a red dot on a pistol.
The great thing about this sight is it’s inexpensive compared to other options.
For concealed carry, it’s so light you will not notice the weight, and it has a rear sight built into the design.
The Romeo Zero isn’t the most user-friendly, with a bad button location. The glass is very clear, but it does scratch easily.
To learn more about this optic, check out my full Sig Romeo Zero Review.
Sig Romeo Zero
- 6 MOA
- Red Dot
- 8 Different brightness settings
- Motion activated
- CR1632 Battery Type – 2-10 year battery life
- Parallax-free
- Designed for CCW
Price Check: Optics Planet, Palmetto State Armory, Brownells, Primary Arms, GunMag Warehouse, Amazon
2. Trigger
Another one of the best Ruger Max-9 upgrades is swapping out the trigger. The right trigger pull is the difference between good-shooting and bad-performing pistols.
Just about every gun I get, I upgrade the trigger. It is the most critical upgrade to improve your shooting ability with the gun.
A new trigger will improve your speed and accuracy.
The two triggers I recommend for the Ruger Max-9 are the Galloway Precision Maxxis Short Stroke Trigger and the M*CARBO Short Stroke Trigger.
Galloway Precision Maxxis Short Stroke Trigger
The Galloway Precision Maxxis Short Stroke Trigger is a good upgrade for your Ruger Max-9.
It’s pretty easy to install, and they have a good video that shows the process in detail.
The pre-travel of the trigger is significantly reduced, and you will now have a predictable wall during the pull.
Overall, it’s a very good trigger and very affordable.
Galloway Precision Maxxis Short Stroke Trigger
- Removes around 20% to 25% of the pre-travel of the trigger (depending on the tolerances of your particular pistol)
- Makes Follow-up shots faster
- 3D-printed ballistic nylon safety blade
M*CARBO Short Stroke Trigger
The next trigger I recommend is the M*CARBO Short Stroke Trigger. This is a step above Galloway, in my opinion.
It’s a vast improvement over the factory trigger and lightens the pull weight while reducing the pre-travel.
The trigger pull is very smooth and consistent.
Installation is not for beginners, but they also have a very good video on their website that shows the entire process from start to finish.
It’s slightly more expensive but still very affordable.
M*CARBO Short Stroke Trigger
- Precision CNC Machined 6061 Aluminum Trigger
- Up to a 60% reduction in pre-travel
- 34% reduction in total trigger travel from OEM trigger
- Retains all original safety features, unlike other aftermarket MAX-9 triggers.
3. Holster
Because Ruger is one of the major firearms brands, there are plenty of holster options.
Most people will carry this inside the waistband, and the two holster companies I recommend are Galco and Alien Gear.
They both have multiple styles of holsters that work with the Ruger Max-9.
You should have no issue finding any style of holster you want for the Ruger Max-9.
Galco Holsters
I have used countless Galco Holsters over the years and still have every single one. They have some wear and tear but are not broken.
They specialize in leather holsters and make great quality products.
The Ruger Max-9 will most likely be for concealed carry, and an IWB holster is what most people will get.
They do make OWB holsters for the Ruger Max-9, too.
Their website has many different styles, materials, and versions of holsters for the Ruger.
If you want a good-quality holster that fits your gun perfectly, check out Galco.
Galco Holsters
For Ruger Max-9
Alien Gear Holsters
Alien Gear Holsters are also a very good option for any CCW pistol, especially the Ruger Max-9.
They were one of the first companies to make a “hybrid” holster that uses different materials for comfort and fitment.
Their IWB holster has more material but is one of the most comfortable for carrying a gun.
Alien Gear has many different designs and customizations you can do to make it the perfect holster.
Alien Gear Holsters
For Ruger Max-9
4. Grip Sleeve
Another great Ruger Max-9 upgrade is a better grip option. Because of the polymer frame, there isn’t much to do besides a grip sleeve or grip tape.
I have used both options, and they both work, but I prefer grip tape.
It adds a nice grip texture but doesn’t add bulk to the pistol, which is vital for concealed carry.
Hogue Grip Sleeve
If you notice you have sweating hands while shooting or think the grip of the Ruger Max-9 is too smooth, then the Hogue Grip Sleeve will fix this.
It is a rubber sleeve that fits snuggly over the pistol grip and gives a nice grippy texture to secure the pistol in your hand while shooting.
They are inexpensive and work great.
The only downside is they add bulk. Some people prefer that though.
Hogue Grip Sleeve
- Gentle palm swells fit comfortably in the hand
- Finger grooves naturally position fingers for optimal grip
- Textured with Hogue’s famous Cobblestone pattern for increased comfort and grip
Talon Grip Tape
My go-to solution for improving the grip is Talon Grip Tape. This product works exceptionally well on concealed carry pistols because it adds no extra bulk.
They make two different materials, and I suggest the “rubberized” version.
These grips give the perfect combination of rubber and texture feel and work great with sweaty hands.
They are super affordable, and if you have never tried these on any pistol, you are missing out.
Talon Grip Tape
- Gentle palm swells fit comfortably in the hand
- Finger grooves naturally position fingers for optimal grip
- Textured with Hogue’s famous Cobblestone pattern for increased comfort and grip
5. Laser
The last upgrade I recommend for the Ruger Max-9 is a laser. Any advantage you can get in a self-defense situation is essential.
Adding a laser does give you an advantage for aiming. In a life-or-death situation, you need to react quickly.
A laser will allow you to know where you are shooting without having proper sight alignment.
Who knows what situation may arise, but having every advantage possible is key.
The two lasers I suggest are the Crimson Trace Laserguard and the Viridian Essential Green Laser.
Crimson Trace Laserguard
The best laser for the Ruger Max-9 is the Crimson Trace Laserguard.
This comes in both red and green lasers, but the green version is more expensive. Green is easier for some people to pick up with their eyes.
It has good battery life, and the activation button is located on the grip. This allows you to turn the laser on without breaking your shooting grip.
This is the best possible option for concealed carry because of how quick it is.
Crimson Trace makes very reliable lasers that hold zero well.
One thing to remember when adding a laser is that you may need to get a new holster that will accommodate this upgrade.
Crimson Trace Laserguard
- 2 hours of battery life that runs on (1) 1/3N lithium battery
- The front activation button engages the laser immediately when the firearm is held in a standard firing grip
- User installed with no gunsmithing required
- Factory sighted at 50 feet but is entirely user-adjustable for Windage and Elevation
- Features a 5mW peak, 515-532nm, Class 3R visible green laser
Price Check: Optics Planet, Palmetto State Armory, GunMag Warehouse, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, Amazon
Viridian Essential Laser
Another good option for a laser is the Viridian Essential Laser.
The activation button is what you usually see on lasers.
They make this in green and red versions, and the quality is top-notch. The most significant deciding factor is the price.
So, if you want quicker activation, go with the crimson trace. If you want to save some money, go with the Viridian.
Viridian Essential Laser
- It brings the shooter faster to the target
- Lasers are highly visible to the human eye
- Laser is activated by the finger of the shooter’s hand
- Ambidextrous activation
- Uses a single 1/3N battery
- Easy windage and elevation adjustment
Price Check: Optics Planet, Palmetto State Armory, GunMag Warehouse, Amazon
Bonus: Ammo
Finally, it’s always a good idea to stock up on ammo. 9mm Ammo is very common; chances are you don’t have enough or can use more.
I always recommend everyone have at least 1,000 rounds per caliber they own at minimum.
Here are links to different companies that sell ammo. The price constantly changes, so click the links for the most current prices.
9mm Ammo
Price Check: Optics Planet, Palmetto State Armory, Primary Arms, GunMag Warehouse, Guns.com, Grab A Gun, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, Sportsman’s Guide, Bereli, Lucky Gunner, Gorilla Ammunition
Final Thoughts
From the factory, the Ruger Max-9 is good and a solid base to start from. This gun was designed from the ground up to be a self-defense concealed carry pistol for everyday use.
That is why a good holster is necessary. You want to be comfortable and confident while carrying a pistol. A solid holster will do that.
The Ruger Max-9 is also destined to be used with a micro red dot sight. With so many good options of compatible red dots with this gun, do yourself the service and add a red dot.
What do you think about the Ruger Max-9? Have you shot one or use it as your everyday carry? What modifications or upgrades have you made to it? Let me know in the comments below.
Best Ruger Max-9 Upgrades & Accessories FAQ
What is the best red dot for Ruger Max 9?
The best red dot for the Ruger Max-9 is the Holosun 507K-X2 or the Sig Romeo Zero. Both are comparable, reasonably priced, and work great for concealed carry pistols like the Ruger Max-9.
Does a Ruger Max 9 have a lot of recoil?
The Ruger Max-9 has more recoil compared to full-sized pistols. The 9mm round and short barrel give the gun a “snappy” feeling when shooting. There is always the trade-off with small, lightweight, compact pistols.
What optics are compatible with Ruger Max-9?
As of the time of writing, these are the red dots that are compatible with the Ruger Max-9: Ruger ReadyDot, Holosun 507K, Bushnell RX Micro, Crimson Trace 1500 Series, Jpoint MRD, Shield RMS, Shield RMS2, Shield RMSc, Shield RMSw, Shield SMS, Shield SMS2, Shield SMSc, Sig Romeo Zero, Sightmark Mini Scout A-Spec M3, Swampfox Sentinel, Bushnell RX Micro
Can the Ruger Max 9 handle +P ammo?
The Ruger Max-9 does shoot +P ammo with more power. It’s not recommended to use higher-powered ammo constantly; instead, shoot regular ammo most of the time.
What is the best yardage to sight in a pistol red dot?
The best yardage to sight a pistol red dot in is either 10 yards or 25 yards. Depending on whether you use this for concealed carry, you may zero a pistol red dot closer.
Complete List of Items Mentioned
(Click the links for the most up-to-date prices)
- Holosun 507K-X2
- Sig Romeo Zero
- Galloway Precision Maxxis Short Stroke Trigger
- M*CARBO Short Stroke Trigger
- Galco Holsters
- Alien Gear Holsters
- Hogue Grip Sleeve
- Talon Grip Tape
- Crimson Trace Laserguard
- Viridian Essential Laser
- 9mm Ammo
