I just purchased a Ruger SP101, .357 magnum/ .38 special, 5 shot, with a 3" barrel. It's stainless steel with fixed sights. I ordered this revolver with these specifications. I am a retired law enforcement officer, with 22 years, and 18 of those years were also spent as a collateral duty firearms instructor and field armorer. When I started in 1987, the revolver was the standard duty sidearm of law enforcement, however it was transitioning to semi autos. My duty carry was a Ruger Security Six, .357 mag, stainless, fixed sights, with a 2 3/4 inch barrel. This was a full framed, large revolver. It served me very well for many years. Eventually our agency transitioned over to semi autos, and the Security Six got retired. I retired because I have a tumor in my head and neck, which causes a left side deficit and weakness. So basically it is very difficult to rack the slide if my Sig 220. I decided to switch back to a revolver as my daily carry. I went with the SP101 because it is smaller than the GP100, and it shoots both .357 Mag and .38 spl.. with a comfortable leather pancake holster with a thumb break, and a DeSantis 2 x 2 x 2 belt ammo pouch. It's the same set up I carried, qualified with, and instructed with for many years. With practice it is an excellent carry firearm, so I'm afraid i must disagree with your review. It's not for everyone, I agree. But, for most bigger men and some women, it works well. But just like with every firearm it requires consistent, good quality practice, (learn how it shoots, high, low, left right like with every fixed sight firearm). Fixed sights are more than adequate for the purpose, however I do reccomend a front night sight for ease of target acquisition in low light. Most self defense shooting situations are going to happen in well under 7 yards, and most under 3 yards. But you can accurately hit targets at 25 yards and further with dedicated practice, I know because i do it. With good quality, modern, self defense ammo in .38 spl, it will serve your needs well. However, if your big enough to handle .357 mag, recoil, I suggest two things. First buy a larger replacement grip, I use the Hogue monogrip, which fits my hand much better, I'm 6'4" and 250 lbs. The Pachmayer grip also works well, it's a tad thicker than the hogue. Second is to change out the front sight to something that is night/low light capable, it also helps a lot in daylight shooting. If you shoot .357 magnum, you definitely want a 3" or longer barrel which better serves the ballistics of the cartridge. A 2" barrel and .357 magnum is not a great combination and you lose most of the ballistic benefits of .357 magnum. Also get a very comfortable holster system, that allows for easy concealment. My choice is a nice study, but pliable leather, strong side, outside the pants, pancake style, with a forward tilt. With a good belt, it keeps the weapon close to your body. I also reccomend a good leather 2x2x2 leather cartridge case that slides over your belt, and goes directly in front of your holster. Loading with your strong hand, is always easier and more accurate. This is less bulky than a speed loader case, and the nice leather pouch is not readily identifiable as such. Speedloaders are great for range practice, or as additional back up ready ammo in a case, bag etc. Like with every single concealed, carry firearm, there is no one size fits all. That's a myth. You must select a caliber that you can easily handle, in a firearm size that you can easily and comfortably handle and carry. And most importantly, YOU MUST PRACTICE. It must be quality practice, focusing on marksmanship. Speed comes with time and practice. As the famous Border Patrol national pistol champion Bill Jordan was fond of saying: Fast is fine, but accurate is final.
I have a SP101 in 2,5. and in Switzerland we shoot 25 meters on Olympia targets. I hit 5 out of 5 in the 9 ring with it. So, its not the gun that can’t hit anything:)
You should always be aware of your applications. A smaller easier to carry .357 will put your mind at ease in any back country situation. The .357 hits harder with increasing barrel length. 2.5" gets you 300+ lb feet of energy. 3" gets you 400+. 4" inch 500+. Put a .357 through a 16" rifle and you are past 1000 pound feet. Be aware that you are wrong on cast parts and overall quality. GP's and SP's have always had cast parts. I've owned mine for 35+years. They new ones are are just as good. If you can't handle a SP with .357 loads, use .38+P's. Or better yet.....Practice!
I'm well practiced, believe me. But 10-rds of 125 jhp was PLENTY of .357 for me in this 3" package . The +p loads are definitely the way to go. .38 spl feels like nothing and +p still very tolerable at 900+fps. I paid out nose to have it customized by Gemini Custom (specializes in S&W and Ruger revolvers). I'd never do it again because the modifications cost more than the $499 purchase price (new) of the revolver- in '09. Trigger job, polishing hammer and trigger, gold bead front sight, deburring, chamfering (which I've never known what that is...something to do with chambers) were the mods.
I've got this 3" with hydra port barrel and trigger job. It is a great package. My woods walker. With the weight it easily handles my hot 357s. My son bought it for me. Super well built to last many lifetimes.
Depending on your hands and grip there's a Hogue grip you can get that's longer and a bit more narrow, and there's a Pachmyer that I use that's a little stubbier but more hand-filling. I still have the Pachmyer on my SP101. and it's MUCH easier to shoot as a result.
Really?... I feel the exact opposite way about it (I have this; 3" barrel). I got mine new for $730.00 - a reasonable price. The one weakness with it is it's stock grip though; the aftermarket Hogue grip makes a HUGE difference! It sounds like the barrel on this might be canted to the right, unfortunately... Imo it's excellent at the range and as a carry gun; better sight radius with it's 3" barrel in comparison to a 2", and it's slim profile is great in an IWB holster. Once again, the aftermarket Hogue grip makes a very big difference - enabling you to fire full power .357 Magnum loads with ease (with a manageable amount of snappiness). It's perfect as a CCW; it's practically J-frame sized (I've measured it in comparison to an LCR, and it's literally no more than 1/8th of an inch taller and thicker). A perfect middling revolver, in my experience; not too heavy or bulky - but just right.
What, exactly, did you expect with .357 magnum loads? I'm hearing unrealistic expecations. I put Hogue Monogrips on my SP101 .357 3.2". At the range I practice with .38 special, & shoot 10-15 rounds of .357 carry ammo. The SP101 is a compromise, as you mentioned, an acceptable one if you're realistic.
I have this exact gun. Ruger SP101 3" .357Mag. Shipped to me for $700. When it arrived there were so many burrs the trigger return would barely function.... but I knew (kind of expected) this.. as it's a Ruger revolver.... so..... Spring & Shim Kit $30. Spring kit install, complete internal polish, deburr and barrel lapping $60 by professional gunsmith. Cherry wood grip inlays $25. All in for $815. Butter Smooth now. I now have a super sexy compact 5 shot 3" .357Mag for $815... that I'd put up against any $1200-$1500 Smith or Colt.
When I got mine it had the same issues. Then I got the springs, shims , polish and mono grip. I’ve fired a lot of revolvers, from colt pythons to smith and Wessons of all sorts and I’d put my sp101 against any of them.
Interesting comments. I just bought mine a few weeks ago and picking it up from my local gun store there were issues with the trigger. He took it apart and dud a little whatever to it and it seems to be fine now. I need to run a few boxes through it in hopes it’ll loosen up and be fine. Nice piece, I like it.
I love mine. Its my favorite gun. I got mine used mid covid for 280 dollars. I have the 3 inch with Houge grips. Those factory grips kinda suck. Its good for carry. I pocket carry it at work all the time.
I swapped out the grip for a hogue monogrip and really like mine. I carry it frequently in summer and winter. Carrying it right now matter of fact. Iwb in summer owb winter. I have 2.25 dao as well and carry it some too. So versatile as far as carry ammo it will take anything from light .38 to hot .357.
@@theevenstevenchannel8220 the hogue monogrips are great. If you need some thing a little thicker, Pachmyer makes a grip called Diamond Pro that many swear by. I have that grip and it is thick but it really absorbs the recoil. You mentioned the grip that came with the gun is too thick so you may find the pachmeyer too thick. The hogue monogrip may be you best bet if you want something thinner. I really like it as do many others.
A 357 as a Concealed Carry is not for everyone. Compare this 357 as a carry gun with a S&W or Kimber or EAA and see if any of them will work as a concealed carry. A smaller and lighter 357 might wear well but can you shoot them comfortably? Many feel the 357 in the lighter framed guns sting too much and opt for .38 spl.
You can adjust your windage by filing the rear knock. Or take it to a gun smith in your area. And they can file the notch to move it over left or right. It is a great firearm. And what does not cost now adays
I’ve had exactly that gun for 10 yrs. I’ve carried it for almost that long as well. It’s not a hard gun to conceal and it’s superbly accurate. The revolver is its own skill set. If you’re willing to put in the work it can be a very formidable weapon. Those shots you had on paper that were off to the right is probably cause of jerking the trigger. I had the same problem. I trained through it. I do agree revolvers are really expensive now but it’s a great little wheel gun. You just need to put the time in.
A few things… First, I got this same revolver a little over a year ago. Mine was brand new. I switched out the plastic inserts in the grips for wooden ones from Altamont Grips; gives it a nice classy look. I also replaced the OEM front blade for a Meprolight tritium front sight. Those were my only mods. Maybe I got lucky or you were unlucky, but mine seems to have been made on a better day at the factory than yours. Mine was manufactured in 2022 and it doesn’t have the cosmetic blemishes you pointed out on yours. You seem to be disappointed that the SP101 is cast instead of forged, as you reminisce about your GP100. I have news for you: The GP100 was cast, too. All of Ruger’s revolvers are and always were. That’s how they became successful in the marketplace. They developed a proprietary casting process that produced a strong, quality revolver at lower cost than competitors like S&W or Colt. That’s why they tend to be “beefier” than other brands, though, because by weight and volume cast parts are not as strong as forged, so they have to compensate for this. But they are still well-made guns. Mine is, and it sure wasn’t cheap, either. As to the accuracy you achieved, Magtech isn’t the best brand, and even if it were, you may want to try out other brands before reaching any final conclusions about the accuracy of your revolver. A given revolver may shoot one brand off of point of aim but another dead on. I typically shoot Federal 158 grain JSP .357 Magnum out of mine and it is dead on when I do my part as a marksman. It also shoots my carry ammo, Hornady Critical Duty 135 grain FTX quite well. Speaking of shooting .357 Magnum ammo, yes, on that point I agree with you: shooting .357 Magnum out of an SP101 is not “fun”. It hurts the knuckles. That could probably be addressed with a better grip like the Hogue Monogrip, but then it is not as concealable. The reason for the relatively minimalist OEM grips is to make it easier to conceal. It’s important for me because I pocket carry in a Palmetto Leather Company custom pocket holster, and if the grips were any bigger, it would be about impossible to do this, so I live with the uncomfortable range sessions. Which brings me to my last point. I think you expected too much out of this gun and didn’t understand the purpose of its design. I don’t believe that it was ever meant to be a “range gun” in the way your GP100 was. The SP101 is meant to be a carry gun, pretty much, period, at least in the configuration you and I have ours in. Yes it is larger and heavier than a J-frame 2” snubby, but believe me, you want to talk about uncomfortable to shoot, try one of those ultralight .357 Magnum snubbies like the S&W 340 PD. Now that is a painful gun to shoot .357s out of, makes the SP101 seem quite tame by comparison. Guns like both the Ruger SP101 and the S&W 340 PD are designed to give concealed carriers something they can’t get from any automatics, something they can only get from a revolver. And that something is a gun you can carry in your pocket that packs a 450 foot pound punch, at least that’s what mine does with its 3” barrel and my chosen carry ammo. That extra inch does make a significant difference, by the way, even with .38 Special, in terms of velocity and expansion compared with a 2” barrel. So, I would say that the Ruger SP101 3” barrel revolver in .357 Magnum/.38 Special does what it is designed to do very well, and that is serve as a very powerful concealed carry piece that isn’t so small and light that it is outrageously uncomfortable to shoot, but is still small and light enough - only just - that it can still be carried with relative ease. But there’s no free lunch; Ruger did about as well or better than any other manufacturer on striking a balance in this regard but it is still not going to be the right solution for a lot of people, as the laws of physics are pretty strict and unforgiving. If I were you I’d hang onto yours and try it out with different brands of ammo to see if there’s something it will shoot to point of aim. If you can’t then maybe you might get rid of it, but it’s worth a shot (pun intended). If you do find a good ammo match, then you still have a very solid and reliable carry piece. Even if you stick with .38 Special +P it is good because the 3” barrel will get significantly more performance out of your ammo compared with a 2” snubbie, and the extra weight will make it easier to shoot accurately. You want a range gun, you might want to get something else altogether unless you want to just shoot .38 Special ammo out of your SP101, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Cheers.
I've had an 2.5" SP101 since 2015, Dump the Factory Junk Grip, and put on the Hogue Monogrip and you'll enjoy it. It even Tames the Full .357s a Little. And just for the record mine goes a bit right as well. My .02👍
My sp101 3” 357mag handles recoil very well, but I put a pacmyer rubberish grip on mine. I remember the stock grip that it came with was pretty painful to shoot. Anyway just a suggestion.
Thinking about getting one these as my first handgun.. can’t decide if I should go with the snub nose or 3in barrel, definitely getting it chambered in 357
I bot a used 2 1/4' in 38 sp for my wife some years ago. With a 6 o-clock hold it put ww +P 125's center black, almost one hole! at 50 feet. WoW, I thot!! and rite away went out and bot me a 3" in 357... It went back to Ruger TWO times kuz it shot Way low and left, and 4+" groups. I told them both times, Rem 357 125's. I said it aint com'n back again, a Smith will replace it! THAT musta got under their craw because it now shoots 4 in 1 ragged hole touching the black at 8 o-clock with one flyer at 1" away! Ok, 3/4" left and one ragged hole... Good enuf!! WHY did it NOT shoot like my wifes, new out of the box? Methinks that 38 sp's previous owner did the same to get it to shoot that well... Just disappointing... But both are very good, now, anyways. A fixed sight gun that shoots to point of aim is a very useful tool.
Inhave the same issue with the hold. To make sure it was not user induced, i placed it in my vice, single action and aimed dead center at a steel target 25 yrds. It hit 4 inches off to the right. Unacceptable. Its a great gun for under 15 yards. But an off set sight is a risk
First, although I have not owned one, I’m quite certain the SP is a fine gun. I own a couple Ruger revolvers. That said, I get to the same end result as you, but for different reasons. I prefer a smaller carry revolver for urban exploits. But for woods carry, camping and the like, I prefer my GP.. For me, the SP is kind of a “tweener” gun, not ideal for either of my primary applications.
I’m going to go against the grain here, but it’s only my opinion. I bought the 3” SP101 .357 with the Houge monogrip already on, the factory grip was in the box. The first time I shot the gun, it was punishing for my hand. The grip fills my hand nicely, I do have big hands standing at 6’1”, but the design and material of the grip made it hit like a hammer. I put the factory grip on, and voila it was a great shooting experience. Sure it’s smaller, not a chance of ever getting a pinky on it, but it’s a much softer rubber and the grip has some forgiveness, some “give” if that’s the right word? Grip it high and tight, be conscious of your finger behind the trigger guard, and in my opinion the factory grip is far superior. Was shooting 158g .357.
I bought this gun a few weeks ago. I like it, it’s a pretty piece, it feels nice with Hogue rubber grips. But the finish is not as nice as I expected and the price was $849.00 with my good buddy discount. Would I buy it again? Yep, absolutely I would👍
I got the first 2 in used like new then got a 3 in to go with it, then Memorial Day ordered another pair of 3in. Put white and abalone pearl inserts in grips. I bet someone got that 2 in and ran full 357 ammo in it, not a fun thing to do and may be why that target is not so good. I load hot +p 125gr like FBI and Treasury loads 38spl. Seat hbwc bullets backwards as hollowpoints so the base is the same depth as 158gr swc. With those loads I can pretty much make a ragged hole at 5 yards.
Try shooting 357 mag in 125 grain. It’s actually pleasant. Buffalo bore 168 grain would be a different story. I didn’t even want to try. I mean, maybe it wouldn’t have been too bad, but I didn’t see the point as far as why i bought this gun specifically. But I really think that that might make a difference for you
This Ruger is a $575 new. These are great guns, the finish is not as nice as smith and wesson but cost half the price. Change out the trigger spring and get a decent holster. Thats all you need
I have one of the 2 inch barrel. I can conceal it very well but the damn thing it’s kind of heavy. I’m almost rather have a three and just keep it as a car gun.
A five shot .38 or .357 is easy to load if you use a stripper clip from an sks. It will hold 10 rounds and is flat, not round making it easier to carry.
It's meant to defend your life in a life and death struggle. Within six feet . Up close and personal. Not the gun for you. Get a 22. for shooting at paper.
Ive got this one and the 2 1/4" barrel version. I can't explain why your shooting to right. What I can say is one issue you have are those grips. They are too small and with 357magnum it's uncomfortable. I have the Crimson Trace laser grips and they're comfortable and keep your knuckle cushioned against the triggerguard. They are spendy but very good. I'd find a better style grip and it makes 357magnum very achievable. Also trigger action jobs are pretty easy on these SP101 and GP100 revolvers. Get the right grip and it will help a bunch. I love these little revolvers and I like my little J-frames but for heavier loads and 357mag the sp101 is a better tool for that and a great outdoors tool. My 642 airweight is a better carry pistol but more difficult to shoot. I think with more time spent with the sp101 and a grip that fits better and protects your finger you'll like it much better. I enjoyed the video.
@@teller1290those are the precise measurement for the barrel when they say 2 or 3 that’s just the rounded down length. I also have crimson trace grips on mine and although 357 round is a little more smack to the hand cause there made of polymer the accuracy is night and day difference with a laser to help. I bought mine used dao 2” and it came with hogue lamo camo grips which are nice and give your pinky a place to sit but the grip is long and wide and not good for conceal carry in my opinion.
@@teller1290 2&1/4", 3", and 4" "target model" (with upgraded front sight and an adjustable rear sight)... I have this 3" model, with the aftermarket Hogue grip. A trigger job is in the works for me - as it has a heavy 12+ lb DA factory trigger pull.
You need more practice with a revolver. Pulling the tonyhe right is one of the most common misses with a double action. You can and will do better after you learn the gun. Too many people make these videos calling the gun inaccurate. The gun is dead on, you are inaccurate
There are some SP101's that are better fitted and have adjustable sights. But? They cost more than that plain Jane, machine chattered, SP101. Ruger used to turn out very nice, innovative, "working man's", firearms that didn't break the bank or family budget.....and could still deliver exceptional performance. That started to change when Ruger dropped their original revolver lines and their original, steel/aluminum alloy semi-auto lines. Ruger kinda went the way of Colt, Smith and Wesson, and few others in trying to churn out so-so guns....at boutique prices. If anybody doesn't believe me? Go check out a Ruger Max-9 or LCP Plus.
The problem is not the windage or the gun, it’s you. You’re jerking the trigger also just by look at the way you pull the trigger is wrong, to much of your finger grabbing the trigger pulls the shoots to the right and jerking it pushes down. Nothing wrong with the gun it’s operator error, Keep on practicing.
Lake County Examiner: Lakeview, Oregon: Wednesday, March 24, 2021/Letters To The Editor Letter to the editor: Best general-purpose handgun For a general-purpose handgun consider Ruger’s SP-101 .357 Magnum revolver: “stainless steel”, 5 shot swing out cylinder (double-action), with 4.2” barrel and target sights for the citizen owning only one handgun. Versatile for "self-defense/house protection/concealed carry", as a kit and trail gun for the outdoorsman/ sportsman, and for urban metro vs. wilderness rural use. At 30 oz. unloaded lightweight (for the hiker, backpacker, trapper), yet heavy enough to handle the .357 Magnum. Loaded with .38 Special 148 grain lead target wad-cutter ammo (next to a .22 or .32) practical for hunting small game: rabbit, squirrel, and grouse (for the campfire skillet), for dispatching vermin such as raccoon, skunk, possum, etc. Even for butchering livestock such as cattle with a head shot. Loaded with CCI's classic .38 Special shot or snake load of No. 9 shot highly effective in killing rattlesnakes. Readily and instantly accessible in reach via a nightstand, dresser or bureau drawer, or next to a sleeping bag inside a tent is very comforting armed security to have, especially at night! This handgun would also be great for a long-haul trucker, or hay hauler, to carry. Even for the motorist traveling on a road trip. Yes, bear in mind being broken down, stranded, and having to spend the night alone in your vehicle. This .38/.357 revolver combination along with an Atomic Beam Flashlight, survival knife, fresh drinking water, food, toilet paper, shovel, matches, wool blanket, etc. could certainly take back the night. Even for a woman it's smaller frame and size would still fit her smaller hands. And firing.38 Special ammo in this .*357 Magnum could still be handled by a female. Double action revolvers can be improved with aftermarket combat rubber grips. I recommend reading, "Meet Ruger's SP-101 Revolver: The Ideal Gun For Self Defense", by Kyle Mizokan via the April 2019 issue of The National Interest. James A. Farmer Merrill, Oregon (Klamath County) *.357 Magnum revolvers will chamber and fire .38 Special ammo, but not the reverse. Also...."SP-101 Like Physics, Only Practical" by Law Officer for January 3, 2009 is well worth reading.
I really like my sp101s I currently own 4 of them different configurations. I would not have so many if they were not AMAZING guns. I have cc carried one for about 8 or 9 years daily. Mine is super accurate and I am very comfortable shooting 357s. You are pulling the trigger and need to practice with more revolvers. Each one is different and have a different feel, once you find one that you like you will not want to carry anything else. Like @petergradilone9062 said "If you can't handle a SP with .357 loads, use .38+P's."
I just purchased a Ruger SP101, .357 magnum/ .38 special, 5 shot, with a 3" barrel. It's stainless steel with fixed sights. I ordered this revolver with these specifications.
I am a retired law enforcement officer, with 22 years, and 18 of those years were also spent as a collateral duty firearms instructor and field armorer.
When I started in 1987, the revolver was the standard duty sidearm of law enforcement, however it was transitioning to semi autos.
My duty carry was a Ruger Security Six, .357 mag, stainless, fixed sights, with a 2 3/4 inch barrel. This was a full framed, large revolver. It served me very well for many years. Eventually our agency transitioned over to semi autos, and the Security Six got retired.
I retired because I have a tumor in my head and neck, which causes a left side deficit and weakness. So basically it is very difficult to rack the slide if my Sig 220.
I decided to switch back to a revolver as my daily carry.
I went with the SP101 because it is smaller than the GP100, and it shoots both .357 Mag and .38 spl.. with a comfortable leather pancake holster with a thumb break, and a DeSantis 2 x 2 x 2 belt ammo pouch. It's the same set up I carried, qualified with, and instructed with for many years. With practice it is an excellent carry firearm, so I'm afraid i must disagree with your review.
It's not for everyone, I agree. But, for most bigger men and some women, it works well. But just like with every firearm it requires consistent, good quality practice, (learn how it shoots, high, low, left right like with every fixed sight firearm). Fixed sights are more than adequate for the purpose, however I do reccomend a front night sight for ease of target acquisition in low light. Most self defense shooting situations are going to happen in well under 7 yards, and most under 3 yards. But you can accurately hit targets at 25 yards and further with dedicated practice, I know because i do it.
With good quality, modern, self defense ammo in .38 spl, it will serve your needs well. However, if your big enough to handle .357 mag, recoil, I suggest two things. First buy a larger replacement grip, I use the Hogue monogrip, which fits my hand much better, I'm 6'4" and 250 lbs. The Pachmayer grip also works well, it's a tad thicker than the hogue. Second is to change out the front sight to something that is night/low light capable, it also helps a lot in daylight shooting.
If you shoot .357 magnum, you definitely want a 3" or longer barrel which better serves the ballistics of the cartridge. A 2" barrel and .357 magnum is not a great combination and you lose most of the ballistic benefits of .357 magnum.
Also get a very comfortable holster system, that allows for easy concealment. My choice is a nice study, but pliable leather, strong side, outside the pants, pancake style, with a forward tilt. With a good belt, it keeps the weapon close to your body. I also reccomend a good leather 2x2x2 leather cartridge case that slides over your belt, and goes directly in front of your holster. Loading with your strong hand, is always easier and more accurate. This is less bulky than a speed loader case, and the nice leather pouch is not readily identifiable as such.
Speedloaders are great for range practice, or as additional back up ready ammo in a case, bag etc.
Like with every single concealed, carry firearm, there is no one size fits all. That's a myth. You must select a caliber that you can easily handle, in a firearm size that you can easily and comfortably handle and carry. And most importantly, YOU MUST PRACTICE. It must be quality practice, focusing on marksmanship. Speed comes with time and practice.
As the famous Border Patrol national pistol champion Bill Jordan was fond of saying:
Fast is fine, but accurate is final.
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN I PRESENT THE MAN WHO LIKES TO HEAR HIMSELF TALK!
I have a SP101 in 2,5. and in Switzerland we shoot 25 meters on Olympia targets. I hit 5 out of 5 in the 9 ring with it. So, its not the gun that can’t hit anything:)
You should always be aware of your applications. A smaller easier to carry .357 will put your mind at ease in any back country situation. The .357 hits harder with increasing barrel length. 2.5" gets you 300+ lb feet of energy. 3" gets you 400+. 4" inch 500+. Put a .357 through a 16" rifle and you are past 1000 pound feet. Be aware that you are wrong on cast parts and overall quality. GP's and SP's have always had cast parts. I've owned mine for 35+years. They new ones are are just as good. If you can't handle a SP with .357 loads, use .38+P's. Or better yet.....Practice!
I'm well practiced, believe me. But 10-rds of 125 jhp was PLENTY of .357 for me in this 3" package . The +p loads are definitely the way to go. .38 spl feels like nothing and +p still very tolerable at 900+fps.
I paid out nose to have it customized by Gemini Custom (specializes in S&W and Ruger revolvers). I'd never do it again because the modifications cost more than the $499 purchase price (new) of the revolver- in '09.
Trigger job, polishing hammer and trigger, gold bead front sight, deburring, chamfering (which I've never known what that is...something to do with chambers) were the mods.
Bro your ballistics are wrong. In a 3 inch you can get 500 or 600 + foot pounds of energy.
I've got this 3" with hydra port barrel and trigger job. It is a great package. My woods walker. With the weight it easily handles my hot 357s. My son bought it for me. Super well built to last many lifetimes.
Are you able to conceal carry it?
I've got this with the Hogue grip installed. I absolutely love it.
I absolutely love mine, same exact gun. Thanks for posting.
Depending on your hands and grip there's a Hogue grip you can get that's longer and a bit more narrow, and there's a Pachmyer that I use that's a little stubbier but more hand-filling. I still have the Pachmyer on my SP101. and it's MUCH easier to shoot as a result.
Love my SP101 w/3" barrel. It is my all time favorite gun. These guns are built like tanks and shoot smooth and accurately.
Really?... I feel the exact opposite way about it (I have this; 3" barrel). I got mine new for $730.00 - a reasonable price. The one weakness with it is it's stock grip though; the aftermarket Hogue grip makes a HUGE difference! It sounds like the barrel on this might be canted to the right, unfortunately... Imo it's excellent at the range and as a carry gun; better sight radius with it's 3" barrel in comparison to a 2", and it's slim profile is great in an IWB holster. Once again, the aftermarket Hogue grip makes a very big difference - enabling you to fire full power .357 Magnum loads with ease (with a manageable amount of snappiness). It's perfect as a CCW; it's practically J-frame sized (I've measured it in comparison to an LCR, and it's literally no more than 1/8th of an inch taller and thicker). A perfect middling revolver, in my experience; not too heavy or bulky - but just right.
What, exactly, did you expect with .357 magnum loads? I'm hearing unrealistic expecations. I put Hogue Monogrips on my SP101 .357 3.2". At the range I practice with .38 special, & shoot 10-15 rounds of .357 carry ammo. The SP101 is a compromise, as you mentioned, an acceptable one if you're realistic.
I have this exact gun. Ruger SP101 3" .357Mag. Shipped to me for $700.
When it arrived there were so many burrs the trigger return would barely function.... but I knew (kind of expected) this.. as it's a Ruger revolver.... so.....
Spring & Shim Kit $30.
Spring kit install, complete internal polish, deburr and barrel lapping $60 by professional gunsmith.
Cherry wood grip inlays $25.
All in for $815.
Butter Smooth now.
I now have a super sexy compact 5 shot 3" .357Mag for $815... that I'd put up against any $1200-$1500 Smith or Colt.
When I got mine it had the same issues. Then I got the springs, shims , polish and mono grip. I’ve fired a lot of revolvers, from colt pythons to smith and Wessons of all sorts and I’d put my sp101 against any of them.
Interesting comments. I just bought mine a few weeks ago and picking it up from my local gun store there were issues with the trigger. He took it apart and dud a little whatever to it and it seems to be fine now. I need to run a few boxes through it in hopes it’ll loosen up and be fine. Nice piece, I like it.
I love mine. Its my favorite gun. I got mine used mid covid for 280 dollars. I have the 3 inch with Houge grips. Those factory grips kinda suck. Its good for carry. I pocket carry it at work all the time.
Son, we all cant grow up to be billy the kid.
Somebody has to hang back and tend the spuds.
That’s pretty good, I can’t wait to use that one! Thanks!
I have the Ruger SP101 in 357 magnum and I love it.
I swapped out the grip for a hogue monogrip and really like mine. I carry it frequently in summer and winter. Carrying it right now matter of fact. Iwb in summer owb winter. I have 2.25 dao as well and carry it some too. So versatile as far as carry ammo it will take anything from light .38 to hot .357.
You're the second person to mention those grips. Maybe they're worth looking in to.
@@theevenstevenchannel8220 the hogue monogrips are great. If you need some thing a little thicker, Pachmyer makes a grip called Diamond Pro that many swear by. I have that grip and it is thick but it really absorbs the recoil. You mentioned the grip that came with the gun is too thick so you may find the pachmeyer too thick. The hogue monogrip may be you best bet if you want something thinner. I really like it as do many others.
A 357 as a Concealed Carry is not for everyone. Compare this 357 as a carry gun with a S&W or Kimber or EAA and see if any of them will work as a concealed carry. A smaller and lighter 357 might wear well but can you shoot them comfortably? Many feel the 357 in the lighter framed guns sting too much and opt for .38 spl.
Yes. I shot my friend’s S&W Model 60 357 magnum. The recoil was painful.
Had mine for 13 years. I'll agree your opinion os yours only. Mine works fine.
You can adjust your windage by filing the rear knock. Or take it to a gun smith in your area. And they can file the notch to move it over left or right. It is a great firearm. And what does not cost now adays
My sp 357 has a different trigger and hammer, but it's older, and if you are going to shoot a lot of 357, get a Hogue rubber grip or just use 38+p.
Great video!
I’ve had exactly that gun for 10 yrs. I’ve carried it for almost that long as well. It’s not a hard gun to conceal and it’s superbly accurate. The revolver is its own skill set. If you’re willing to put in the work it can be a very formidable weapon. Those shots you had on paper that were off to the right is probably cause of jerking the trigger. I had the same problem. I trained through it. I do agree revolvers are really expensive now but it’s a great little wheel gun. You just need to put the time in.
A few things…
First, I got this same revolver a little over a year ago. Mine was brand new.
I switched out the plastic inserts in the grips for wooden ones from Altamont Grips; gives it a nice classy look. I also replaced the OEM front blade for a Meprolight tritium front sight. Those were my only mods.
Maybe I got lucky or you were unlucky, but mine seems to have been made on a better day at the factory than yours. Mine was manufactured in 2022 and it doesn’t have the cosmetic blemishes you pointed out on yours.
You seem to be disappointed that the SP101 is cast instead of forged, as you reminisce about your GP100. I have news for you: The GP100 was cast, too. All of Ruger’s revolvers are and always were. That’s how they became successful in the marketplace. They developed a proprietary casting process that produced a strong, quality revolver at lower cost than competitors like S&W or Colt. That’s why they tend to be “beefier” than other brands, though, because by weight and volume cast parts are not as strong as forged, so they have to compensate for this. But they are still well-made guns. Mine is, and it sure wasn’t cheap, either.
As to the accuracy you achieved, Magtech isn’t the best brand, and even if it were, you may want to try out other brands before reaching any final conclusions about the accuracy of your revolver. A given revolver may shoot one brand off of point of aim but another dead on. I typically shoot Federal 158 grain JSP .357 Magnum out of mine and it is dead on when I do my part as a marksman. It also shoots my carry ammo, Hornady Critical Duty 135 grain FTX quite well.
Speaking of shooting .357 Magnum ammo, yes, on that point I agree with you: shooting .357 Magnum out of an SP101 is not “fun”. It hurts the knuckles. That could probably be addressed with a better grip like the Hogue Monogrip, but then it is not as concealable. The reason for the relatively minimalist OEM grips is to make it easier to conceal. It’s important for me because I pocket carry in a Palmetto Leather Company custom pocket holster, and if the grips were any bigger, it would be about impossible to do this, so I live with the uncomfortable range sessions.
Which brings me to my last point. I think you expected too much out of this gun and didn’t understand the purpose of its design. I don’t believe that it was ever meant to be a “range gun” in the way your GP100 was. The SP101 is meant to be a carry gun, pretty much, period, at least in the configuration you and I have ours in. Yes it is larger and heavier than a J-frame 2” snubby, but believe me, you want to talk about uncomfortable to shoot, try one of those ultralight .357 Magnum snubbies like the S&W 340 PD. Now that is a painful gun to shoot .357s out of, makes the SP101 seem quite tame by comparison.
Guns like both the Ruger SP101 and the S&W 340 PD are designed to give concealed carriers something they can’t get from any automatics, something they can only get from a revolver. And that something is a gun you can carry in your pocket that packs a 450 foot pound punch, at least that’s what mine does with its 3” barrel and my chosen carry ammo. That extra inch does make a significant difference, by the way, even with .38 Special, in terms of velocity and expansion compared with a 2” barrel.
So, I would say that the Ruger SP101 3” barrel revolver in .357 Magnum/.38 Special does what it is designed to do very well, and that is serve as a very powerful concealed carry piece that isn’t so small and light that it is outrageously uncomfortable to shoot, but is still small and light enough - only just - that it can still be carried with relative ease. But there’s no free lunch; Ruger did about as well or better than any other manufacturer on striking a balance in this regard but it is still not going to be the right solution for a lot of people, as the laws of physics are pretty strict and unforgiving.
If I were you I’d hang onto yours and try it out with different brands of ammo to see if there’s something it will shoot to point of aim. If you can’t then maybe you might get rid of it, but it’s worth a shot (pun intended). If you do find a good ammo match, then you still have a very solid and reliable carry piece. Even if you stick with .38 Special +P it is good because the 3” barrel will get significantly more performance out of your ammo compared with a 2” snubbie, and the extra weight will make it easier to shoot accurately.
You want a range gun, you might want to get something else altogether unless you want to just shoot .38 Special ammo out of your SP101, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Cheers.
The cut out on right side i believe is for spped loader possibly!?
I've had an 2.5" SP101 since 2015, Dump the Factory Junk Grip, and put on the Hogue Monogrip and you'll enjoy it. It even Tames the Full .357s a Little. And just for the record mine goes a bit right as well. My .02👍
Nice revolver ❤❤❤❤
luv my 3 inch sp101
I don't know where you are going to find a better revolver than a ruger
Mine is…. Different? I don’t seem to have any cast parts, though mine is from 2009.
My sp101 3” 357mag handles recoil very well, but I put a pacmyer rubberish grip on mine. I remember the stock grip that it came with was pretty painful to shoot. Anyway just a suggestion.
I think you'll find it's not a thumb indentation in the grip but an indentation so the speed loader will work.
Haven't seen anybody brag about accuracy with these pistols
I hit a 3 inch target at 1000 yards . So there you go
Esse revolver é espetacular, um canhão de mãos.
Thinking about getting one these as my first handgun.. can’t decide if I should go with the snub nose or 3in barrel, definitely getting it chambered in 357
Unless you want to go for pocket carry, get the 3" inch. It is just a better all around gun.
I bot a used 2 1/4' in 38 sp for my wife some years ago. With a 6 o-clock hold it put ww +P 125's center black, almost one hole! at 50 feet. WoW, I thot!! and rite away went out and bot me a 3" in 357... It went back to Ruger TWO times kuz it shot Way low and left, and 4+" groups. I told them both times, Rem 357 125's. I said it aint com'n back again, a Smith will replace it! THAT musta got under their craw because it now shoots 4 in 1 ragged hole touching the black at 8 o-clock with one flyer at 1" away! Ok, 3/4" left and one ragged hole... Good enuf!! WHY did it NOT shoot like my wifes, new out of the box? Methinks that 38 sp's previous owner did the same to get it to shoot that well... Just disappointing... But both are very good, now, anyways. A fixed sight gun that shoots to point of aim is a very useful tool.
Inhave the same issue with the hold. To make sure it was not user induced, i placed it in my vice, single action and aimed dead center at a steel target 25 yrds. It hit 4 inches off to the right. Unacceptable. Its a great gun for under 15 yards. But an off set sight is a risk
I have the 4.2" and i love it
First, although I have not owned one, I’m quite certain the SP is a fine gun. I own a couple Ruger revolvers.
That said, I get to the same end result as you, but for different reasons. I prefer a smaller carry revolver for urban exploits. But for woods carry, camping and the like, I prefer my GP..
For me, the SP is kind of a “tweener” gun, not ideal for either of my primary applications.
It's not wear...it's not machine marks. The gun is done amazing. That's brushed stainless steel bud
I’m going to go against the grain here, but it’s only my opinion. I bought the 3” SP101 .357 with the Houge monogrip already on, the factory grip was in the box. The first time I shot the gun, it was punishing for my hand. The grip fills my hand nicely, I do have big hands standing at 6’1”, but the design and material of the grip made it hit like a hammer. I put the factory grip on, and voila it was a great shooting experience. Sure it’s smaller, not a chance of ever getting a pinky on it, but it’s a much softer rubber and the grip has some forgiveness, some “give” if that’s the right word? Grip it high and tight, be conscious of your finger behind the trigger guard, and in my opinion the factory grip is far superior. Was shooting 158g .357.
Great gun, had mine for yrs shoots smooth..your opinion true enough..where the hell you paid $900 for idk..paid $6oo FOR MINE
I bought this gun a few weeks ago. I like it, it’s a pretty piece, it feels nice with Hogue rubber grips. But the finish is not as nice as I expected and the price was $849.00 with my good buddy discount. Would I buy it again? Yep, absolutely I would👍
Damn 850 is the good buddy discount? Sounds like that guy might hate you
@@johnsmith-oh9is that’s today’s price.
@@kennypringle4580 that's crazy around me they are going for about 650 700 at most
I got the first 2 in used like new then got a 3 in to go with it, then Memorial Day ordered another pair of 3in.
Put white and abalone pearl inserts in grips. I bet someone got that 2 in and ran full 357 ammo in it, not a fun thing to do and may be why that target is not so good. I load hot +p 125gr like FBI and Treasury loads 38spl. Seat hbwc bullets backwards as hollowpoints so the base is the same depth as 158gr swc.
With those loads I can pretty much make a ragged hole at 5 yards.
Try shooting 357 mag in 125 grain. It’s actually pleasant. Buffalo bore 168 grain would be a different story. I didn’t even want to try. I mean, maybe it wouldn’t have been too bad, but I didn’t see the point as far as why i bought this gun specifically.
But I really think that that might make a difference for you
This Ruger is a $575 new. These are great guns, the finish is not as nice as smith and wesson but cost half the price. Change out the trigger spring and get a decent holster. Thats all you need
I have one of the 2 inch barrel. I can conceal it very well but the damn thing it’s kind of heavy. I’m almost rather have a three and just keep it as a car gun.
A five shot .38 or .357 is easy to load if you use a stripper clip from an sks. It will hold 10 rounds and is flat, not round making it easier to carry.
Follow up with the Hogue grips: ua-cam.com/video/LVQHDar8lFs/v-deo.html
i subscribed 🎉
how do l buy a revolver like this?
Give money do paperwork
I would prefer the GP100 w/3in barrel and adjustable sights. What would make it better if was a 8-shot
They make one.
Or, get a 2.75 inch Redhawk……… but $$$$
@LoboAzul56 if I'm not mistaken the 3-in. Gp100 in .357 is a fixed rear sight not full adjustable
It's meant to defend your life in a life and death struggle. Within six feet . Up close and personal. Not the gun for you. Get a 22. for shooting at paper.
Can u shoot 38special out of it oh only 357
Nevermind I just herd him say it does shoots 38special
If I had a choice between the sp101 or the gp100 I would prefer the gp100...more rounds
Ive got this one and the 2 1/4" barrel version. I can't explain why your shooting to right. What I can say is one issue you have are those grips. They are too small and with 357magnum it's uncomfortable. I have the Crimson Trace laser grips and they're comfortable and keep your knuckle cushioned against the triggerguard. They are spendy but very good. I'd find a better style grip and it makes 357magnum very achievable. Also trigger action jobs are pretty easy on these SP101 and GP100 revolvers.
Get the right grip and it will help a bunch. I love these little revolvers and I like my little J-frames but for heavier loads and 357mag the sp101 is a better tool for that and a great outdoors tool. My 642 airweight is a better carry pistol but more difficult to shoot. I think with more time spent with the sp101 and a grip that fits better and protects your finger you'll like it much better.
I enjoyed the video.
I thought there were only two barrel lengths for the SP101: 2" and 3". People on here are talking about 2 1/4", 2 1/2 and 3".
@@teller1290those are the precise measurement for the barrel when they say 2 or 3 that’s just the rounded down length. I also have crimson trace grips on mine and although 357 round is a little more smack to the hand cause there made of polymer the accuracy is night and day difference with a laser to help. I bought mine used dao 2” and it came with hogue lamo camo grips which are nice and give your pinky a place to sit but the grip is long and wide and not good for conceal carry in my opinion.
@@teller1290 2&1/4", 3", and 4" "target model" (with upgraded front sight and an adjustable rear sight)... I have this 3" model, with the aftermarket Hogue grip. A trigger job is in the works for me - as it has a heavy 12+ lb DA factory trigger pull.
@@carlosmorris4510 yes, I had mine done by Gemini Customs years ago. Fabulous work.
You need more practice with a revolver. Pulling the tonyhe right is one of the most common misses with a double action. You can and will do better after you learn the gun. Too many people make these videos calling the gun inaccurate. The gun is dead on, you are inaccurate
you got a great piece, although she may have been shot wet and put away dry
I have one, I don’t like it as much as my other revolvers. Not a fan
Well the barrel is 1" too short for Deer in IN so guess it can't do it all. A 4" GP100 maybe.
They make a 4” sp101 with adjustable sights
Yes but long after other guns or wore out Ruger is just getting broke in
There are some SP101's that are better fitted and have adjustable sights.
But?
They cost more than that plain Jane, machine chattered, SP101.
Ruger used to turn out very nice, innovative, "working man's", firearms that didn't break the bank or family budget.....and could still deliver exceptional performance.
That started to change when Ruger dropped their original revolver lines and their original, steel/aluminum alloy semi-auto lines.
Ruger kinda went the way of Colt, Smith and Wesson, and few others in trying to churn out so-so guns....at boutique prices.
If anybody doesn't believe me?
Go check out a Ruger Max-9 or LCP Plus.
Yea Willey Clapp I believe is only on gp or not sure if Clapp collaboration with sp101 either, I'll have look it up
Excellent price I paid $695 new😢
Dif ammo prints different,try dif ammo,
,Dump those grips for a larger grip better recoil and comfort control.
It’s ok. Revolvers are just not for you. We understand
Way to much recoil felt like i caught a baseball wthout the glove
The problem is not the windage or the gun, it’s you. You’re jerking the trigger also just by look at the way you pull the trigger is wrong, to much of your finger grabbing the trigger pulls the shoots to the right and jerking it pushes down. Nothing wrong with the gun it’s operator error, Keep on practicing.
Should really learn about the gun befor you review it
Lake County Examiner: Lakeview, Oregon: Wednesday, March 24,
2021/Letters To The Editor
Letter to the editor: Best general-purpose handgun
For a general-purpose handgun consider Ruger’s SP-101 .357 Magnum
revolver: “stainless steel”, 5 shot swing out cylinder
(double-action), with 4.2” barrel and target sights for the citizen
owning only one handgun. Versatile for "self-defense/house
protection/concealed carry", as a kit and trail gun for the
outdoorsman/ sportsman, and for urban metro vs. wilderness rural use.
At 30 oz. unloaded lightweight (for the hiker, backpacker, trapper),
yet heavy enough to handle the .357 Magnum. Loaded with .38 Special
148 grain lead target wad-cutter ammo (next to a .22 or .32) practical
for hunting small game: rabbit, squirrel, and grouse (for the campfire
skillet), for dispatching vermin such as raccoon, skunk, possum, etc.
Even for butchering livestock such as cattle with a head shot. Loaded
with CCI's classic .38 Special shot or snake load of No. 9 shot highly
effective in killing rattlesnakes. Readily and instantly accessible in
reach via a nightstand, dresser or bureau drawer, or next to a
sleeping bag inside a tent is very comforting armed security to have,
especially at night!
This handgun would also be great for a long-haul trucker, or hay
hauler, to carry. Even for the motorist traveling on a road trip. Yes,
bear in mind being broken down, stranded, and having to spend the
night alone in your vehicle. This .38/.357 revolver combination along
with an Atomic Beam Flashlight, survival knife, fresh drinking water,
food, toilet paper, shovel, matches, wool blanket, etc. could
certainly take back the night.
Even for a woman it's smaller frame and size would still fit her
smaller hands. And firing.38 Special ammo in this .*357 Magnum could
still be handled by a female. Double action revolvers can be improved
with aftermarket combat rubber grips.
I recommend reading, "Meet Ruger's SP-101 Revolver: The Ideal Gun For
Self Defense", by Kyle Mizokan via the April 2019 issue of The
National Interest.
James A. Farmer
Merrill, Oregon (Klamath County)
*.357 Magnum revolvers will chamber and fire .38 Special ammo, but not
the reverse. Also...."SP-101 Like Physics, Only Practical" by Law Officer for
January 3, 2009 is well worth reading.
Not a great Range Gun, Not a great Carry Gun but when it is the only gun You have at that moment... It is the Best Gun to have
You have 0 idea how to hold a revolver
No gun lock? Return it.
Why? He bought it used. The correct answer would be to call Ruger and they will send you a free manual and lock…..
I really like my sp101s I currently own 4 of them different configurations. I would not have so many if they were not AMAZING guns. I have cc carried one for about 8 or 9 years daily. Mine is super accurate and I am very comfortable shooting 357s. You are pulling the trigger and need to practice with more revolvers. Each one is different and have a different feel, once you find one that you like you will not want to carry anything else. Like @petergradilone9062 said "If you can't handle a SP with .357 loads, use .38+P's."