Gun Review: The Ruger GP100 Revolver

Ruger revolvers are built like tanks. The GP 100 which I used was a 6 inch stainless steel model which is chambered for the .357 magnum / .38 special. It was one of the heavier revolvers I have handled. According to Ruger it has a "triple-locking cylinder which is locked into the frame at the front, rear, and bottom for more positive alignment." The weight of the gun makes recoil (especially when using the .38 special loads) quite tame. It is a medium large revolver (Ruger makes bigger models) which can be used for hunting, self defense, and target/silhouette shooting.

The standard grips are composed of rubber with wood panel inserts. For a time I tried a Hogue rubber grip as a replacement but I went back to the factory grip setup as it felt more comfortable in my hand. The Hogue rubber grips on the S&W revolvers are very comfortable though.

People often compare Ruger revolvers to those made by Smith & Wesson. The finish on the Ruger is not as highly polished as on the S&Ws but the Rugers are sturdier and more carefully processed through CNC equipment. I prefer Rugers as a top choice in my revolver collection.

According to Ruger "all GP100 revolvers feature a strong triple-locking cylinder, and are available in both blued and stainless steel models, and in both square and round-butt variations." I prefer the stainless models over the blued but they are both fine looking pistols. After extensive use of the 6 inch model I am considering changing to the 4 inch one which feels more balanced in my hand.

As mentioned before the 6 inch model is fairly heavy and if one is just looking for a .38 special a lighter model can be found in the Ruger SP101 or by getting a shorter barreled GP100. I just noticed at the time of writing this that Ruger re-introduced the 3 inch model. This would be a fine choice as well.

The factory technical specifications for the model tested are the following:

Caliber:.357 Magnum
Capacity: 6 Rounds
Finish: Satin Stainless
Grip: Rubber w/ Rosewood Insert
Barrel Length: 6" Groove:5
Twist: 1:18 3/4" RH
Overall Length: 11 5/8"
Weight: 2 3/4 lbs
California Approved: Yes
Massachusetts Approved: Yes
Front Sight(s): Fixed
Rear Sight(s): Adjustable
Other Features: Transfer Bar Operating Mechanism with Cylinder Interlock
Suggested Retail Price: $ 635.00
Miscellaneous: Full Shroud Barrel, Adjustable Sights

It is a very accurate gun in the hand when used with .38 special ammunition. Accuracy with the .357 load depends on how well the shooter can handle the magnum load. Most firearms these days are as accurate as the shooter and excellent revolver shooters will find that this gun suits their needs. The double action trigger is a little stout but the poundage can be reduced by a qualified gunsmith. I also noticed that the trigger pull got a little easer after the first thousand rounds of use.

I particularly liked the single action trigger. This revolver has surgical precision if one uses a bench rest. I did not use a scope on the tested model but Ruger revolvers are often scoped by handgun hunters and silhouette shooters. I prefer to use the iron sights as much as I can though.

The cylinder is beautiful and fits solidly into the frame. The cylinder gap is set adequately for its intended use. I have never had a cylinder freeze up on a Ruger nor any other revolver for that matter. I would consider the GP100 easier to clean than a semi-auto, just run a brush through the barrel and cylinder holes. I never really had much lead buildup near the cylinder gap. This gun shoots and stays pretty clean when used with quality factory ammo.

This GP100 would make a perfect nightstand gun which could be used in a moments notice to stop an attacker. There are no safeties or decocking mechanisms to fuddle with during precious these precious seconds. Revolvers are always a good choice for beginning shooters too.

If you are looking for a revolver then consider checking out the Ruger lineup. These are some of the sturdiest looking handguns I have ever seen. Handloaders should consult with Ruger on the limits of the design though as no firearm is indestructible. In conclusion, the Ruger revolver is a solid performer and relatively cheap to buy. Try one out at the gun range and see if it is the right revolver for you.