RUGER GP100
Posted May 14, 2023
The Ruger GP100 is the most popular revolver in production today. It is known for its rugged reliability and near-bulletproof construction. Ruger has been harnessing the power of Ruger-made revolvers for 60 years, and the GP100 is no exception. In its long and storied history, the GP100 has earned the respect of firearm enthusiasts and casual shooters alike.
To start, the GP100 is an intriguing gun to handle. Weighing in at 40 ounces and measuring 7.5 inches in length, it is a substantial specimen of a pistol. It also has a full-size 5-inch barrel, which means it is larger than most other guns on the market. Its beefy construction gives it a substantial armature feel, yet it still retains excellent balance, which is important considering the type of shooting it is made for.
The grip of the GP100 is designed to be comfortable and ergonomic. A finger-grooved barrel and backstrap help to keep the gun secure in the hand during recoil. The checkered wood grips with Ruger's signature logo are well-crafted and also provide a good grip. The gun's finish is a corrosion- and wear-resistant satin blue finish, which has been proven to withstand the elements.
The GP100 features adjustable sights, which allow for precise aiming. The windage and elevation adjustments are accessible without detaching the revolver from the holster. The trigger pull is smooth and crisp, with a light consistent pull throughout. A hammer-drop safety prevents accidental firing from the holster, making the GP100 an especially safe handgun. The trigger guard is also generously sized, making it comfortable to shoot with even if you are wearing shooting gloves.
The GP100 is a double-action revolver, which means it can be fired multiple times without needing to be re-cocked. This makes the transfer between target and target even easier and faster. This feature is especially useful when shooting steel targets, where repeat accuracy is very important. The 8-round cylinder provides more than enough ammo for the most demanding of ranges, while the strong stainless steel construction helps to ensure maximum durability.
Finally, the GP100 has been a favorite of many law enforcement, hunting and other professionals. Its proven quality and performance have made it a must-have accessory for these various industries. Although it is slightly more expensive than other revolvers on the market, it is an excellent investment for those looking for a reliable firearm. All of these features and more have combined to make the Ruger GP100 the king of revolvers.
Overall, the Ruger GP100 is one of the top revolvers out there. It is rock solid in construction, has excellent ergonomics and comes with a full-size barrel for added accuracy. It is slightly pricier than some other revolvers, but its quality and performance make it well worth the money. Whether you’re an avid shooter, hunter, or just a hobbyist looking for a reliable and accurate handgun, the Ruger GP100 is a great choice.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Durable and sturdy, thanks to its steel frame construction
• Features adjustable rear sight for improved accuracy
• Achieves low recoil with its fiber optic front sight
• Can be easily disassembled and reassembled for cleaning and maintenance
• Features built-in trigger lock for safe storage
• Ambidextrous design allows easy use by both right-handed and left-handed shooters
Cons:
• Longer than most revolvers, making it difficult to conceal in some cases
• Heavier than other handguns, which affects portability
• Larger size makes it more uncomfortable to hold and handle
• May require special tools to disassemble and reassemble due to its tight fitting parts
• Expense of the barrel can add additional cost to the purchase price
Who Should Buy
The Ruger GP100 is a sturdy and reliable double-action revolver chambered in a variety of popular handgun calibers. As with any firearm, the Ruger GP100 is a personal choice and the best person to determine whether it is right for them is the shooter, depending on what they are looking for in a handgun.
Generally speaking, the Ruger GP100 is well-suited for shooters of all levels, including those with limited handgun experience. The GP100 is an excellent choice for use as a target, hunting, or self-defense handgun. The GP100's heft and frame make it durable enough to handle recoil and also provides ample weight for greater accuracy. It also has features such as a smooth trigger pull and adjustable sights that make it very suitable for competitive shooting. This revolver is suitable for a range of budgets and is a great value for the money.
On the other hand, the GP100 is probably not the best choice for shooters who are primarily looking for a concealed carry handgun. While the GP100 is chambered in the same calibers as many concealed carry handguns, its size and weight (around three pounds unloaded) make it too large and heavy to easily conceal. The GP100 is also more on the expensive side for a concealed carry handgun.
Comparisons
| RUGER GP100 | Taurus Judge | S & W 686 | Sig Sauer Pro | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .357 Magnum | .410 Bore/.45 Colt | .357 Magnum | 9mm Luger |
| Action | Double/Single | Double/Single | Double/Single | Double Action Only |
| Barrel Length | 4.2" | 3" | 4" | 3.9" |
| Capacity | 6 Rounds | 5 Rounds | 6 Rounds | 15 Rounds |
| Weight | 36.3 oz. | 33 oz. | 42.5 oz. | 30.4 oz. |
| Finish | Matte Stainless | Matte Black | Satin Stainless | Stainless Nitron |
Features / Specs
•Weight: 44 oz.
•Barrel Length: 4.2”
•Overall Length: 9.5”
•Caliber: .357 Mag/ .38 Spl
•Cylinder Capacity: 6 rounds
•Front Sight: Ramp
•Rear Sight: Adjustable
•Grip Frame: Ruger Security/Synthetic
•Grip Panels: Hardwood
•Finish: Stainless Steel
Popular Accessories
- Holsters
- Sights
- Grips
- Recoil Absorber/ Buffer
- Lasers
- Flashlights
- Speedloaders
- Combat Grips
- Rail Mounts
- Trigger Locks
Accuracy
The Ruger GP100 is a reliable and accurate handgun trusted by law enforcement and civilian shooters alike. The accuracy of the GP100 is largely attributed to its powerful design, which includes a solid and stable frame, a thick barrel, and a full-length under-barrel lug. The GP100 is equipped with adjustable sights, and can fire a heavy .357 magnum round with precision. Ruger has developed several sighting systems to help you make the most of the accuracy of the GP100, including traditional formats such as the three-dot sights or red fiber optic sights, both of which help create a clearer picture of the target. The GP100 has been tested on the range and in the field and proved to be an extremely accurate handgun that delivers important stopping power.
