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Posted: 11/19/2012 9:19:26 PM EDT
I've been wanting another revolver in .357 Magnum.  I was thinking of a GP100, but I already have a full-sized (and then some) .357, a S&W 686-3 with 8 3/8" barrel and silhouette sights.

I don't currently have any small profile revolvers outside of one that may as well be a paperweight.

What are the Hive's thoughts, opinions, and experiences with the two I listed, or suggestions outside of those two options?

I've fired both of the ones I listed, and I like both but for different reasons.
Link Posted: 11/19/2012 9:29:09 PM EDT
[#1]
Since you have a 686 I voted SP-101. Get a 3 inch. Now they're still heavy, but concealeable.

I love my 4" 686, but yeah, L frames are large.

ETA.. I have no love for actually firing the scandium framed .357's. Nice to be able to carry, but I fired a friends once, well twice.. There's no joy in touching off a 158 gr. from a 14 oz. revolver. Nope, none at all..
Link Posted: 11/19/2012 9:31:39 PM EDT
[#2]
The SP101 and the LCR .357 are currently in the running for my next gun as well.
Link Posted: 11/19/2012 9:41:22 PM EDT
[#3]

Approves of the 101

Link Posted: 11/19/2012 9:46:47 PM EDT
[#4]
GP100 4" Stainless is the single sexiest revolver on this planet.
Link Posted: 11/19/2012 9:47:46 PM EDT
[#5]
GP100. No doubt.
Link Posted: 11/19/2012 9:49:00 PM EDT
[#6]
4''  S&W 586

or a Colt Python


Smith, Colt, or nothing as far as wheel guns go for me.
Link Posted: 11/19/2012 9:51:22 PM EDT
[#7]
when it comes to wheel guns I'm a full size fan, there for

GP100








granted you do NEED a S&W Model 28 Highway Patrolman, Colt Trooper, Python, or S&W Model 27
Link Posted: 11/19/2012 9:52:04 PM EDT
[#8]
Absolutely love my GP100 and for like $25 in parts, I love it even more. Wolff spring kit.

Amazing.

Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile
Link Posted: 11/19/2012 10:07:46 PM EDT
[#9]
I just sold an SP101.  My only use for a 5 shot revolver is a concealed J Frame.

I'd rather have a 6 cylinder revolver such as an S&W 66, 686, or even a 28 series.  For Rugers, look towards the Security Six or GP100.  Speed Six is also an option if you like fixed sights.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 1:38:01 AM EDT
[#10]
SP-101 (SPNY) was my first O.D. / B.U.G

My only complaint was that after 30-40 rounds...the space between the cylinder and barrel would jam with residue,  the cylinder would actually lock up if you fired more than 50 rounds.

That was 20 years ago, so I don't know if it was remedied.

It'll take an ear clean off without even shooting it though..
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 1:42:33 AM EDT
[#11]
Both are built like tanks for their size.



This could be good or bad.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:07:10 AM EDT
[#12]
Rugers are fine, but I prefer the S&W.  The rugers are just kinda "chunky" and homely compared to the S&W.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:17:59 AM EDT
[#13]
Quoted:
Rugers are fine, but I prefer the S&W.  The rugers are just kinda "chunky" and homely compared to the S&W.


So they're like Glocks to M&Ps?
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:21:42 AM EDT
[#14]
Quoted:
GP100 4" Stainless is the single sexiest revolver on this planet.


This.
Tomac


Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:22:56 AM EDT
[#15]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Rugers are fine, but I prefer the S&W.  The rugers are just kinda "chunky" and homely compared to the S&W.


So they're like Glocks to M&Ps?


No.  It's like Ruger revolvers to S&W revolvers.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:23:15 AM EDT
[#16]
GP100 3" Talo edition with Novak sights.

Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:24:22 AM EDT
[#17]





Quoted:





Quoted:


Rugers are fine, but I prefer the S&W.  The rugers are just kinda "chunky" and homely compared to the S&W.






So they're like Glocks to M&Ps?
No , the Rugers are still sexy looking , but in a more rugged-kind-of-way .





I was just checking a GP out a couple days ago at the fun store ....was tempted. Ive never owned either ( GP or SP ) , but would like to add one to the stable . Smiths are sleeker , Rugers have a 'bullish' build . . . . I like em both
 
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:24:47 AM EDT
[#18]
Quoted:
GP100 3" Talo edition with Novak sights.

http://www.floridaarmory.com/image.php?type=P&id=1348


Where does one get the Talo editions?
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:26:19 AM EDT
[#19]
all these replies and yet no one asks what the use will be?
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:34:21 AM EDT
[#20]
Quoted:
Quoted:
GP100 3" Talo edition with Novak sights.

http://www.floridaarmory.com/image.php?type=P&id=1348


Where does one get the Talo editions?


Dealers who have accounts with Talo can usually get them.

Open market gunbroker auction sites have them too.

Talo models can either sell fast, and be unobtanium, or be a complete turd and sit on the shelf forever.  Their more recent products have been real winners IMO though.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 3:57:09 AM EDT
[#21]
I have a GP100...and I love it!  If I could only choose one handgun to take to the range and shoot all day long...it would be my GP100.  Awesome gun!
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 4:01:23 AM EDT
[#22]




Quoted:

]



granted you do NEED a S&W Model 28 Highway Patrolman, Colt Trooper, Python, or S&W Model 27




+27-2



Link Posted: 11/20/2012 4:02:42 AM EDT
[#23]
Quoted:
4''  S&W 586

or a Colt Python


Smith, Colt, Dan Wesson or nothing as far as wheel guns go for me.


FTFY
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 4:37:09 AM EDT
[#24]
Quoted:
GP100 3" Talo edition with Novak sights.

http://www.floridaarmory.com/image.php?type=P&id=1348


I got one of these. Had to send it back for a cylinder replacement, but I think it's OK now.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 4:39:20 AM EDT
[#25]
As mentioned above, 4" stainless GP100.  Mine's a great gun, and my goto HD handgun.

The only thing I didn't care for were the original rosewood & black rubber grips.  I replaced them with a set of Pachmayrs.  I don't care for the new Hogue grips either, too big and clunky.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 4:40:07 AM EDT
[#26]
Concealed carry=SP101 3"

General purpose service revolver (truck gun, home defense, etc)=GP100 4"
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 4:43:59 AM EDT
[#27]
I bought a SP101 used for a good price. All i have to say is that its a great little revolver and i would go for it.

Link Posted: 11/20/2012 4:52:56 AM EDT
[#28]
I ahve an SP-101 that I would sell you if my wife didn't have a sentimental attachment to it. It was the first gun I ever bought for her and it has stayed in the vault ever since she got her LCR.

With full-boat magnum loads, it kills at the front and maims at the back. It is NOT a fun gun to shoot.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:06:49 AM EDT
[#29]
I carried a 4 inch GP as a duty weapon with an older security six as an off duty for years.

I don't think you'd be doing badly with either choice. You'll just have more issues with bulk if you go with the GP.

Maybe some of you current 101 guys can answer...is the current batch of 101s in .357  as ammo sensitive as the early ones? I recall when they were first produced Ruger said you could only fire 125 gr rounds out of them.....
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:11:35 AM EDT
[#30]




Quoted:





Maybe some of you current 101 guys can answer...is the current batch of 101s in .357 as ammo sensitive as the early ones? I recall when they were first produced Ruger said you could only fire 125 gr rounds out of them.....




I don't currently have an SP101, but I've never heard such silliness. I know plenty of people shooting 158s and those retarded 180 JHPs out of them.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:26:40 AM EDT
[#31]
Quoted:

I don't currently have an SP101, but I've never heard such silliness. I know plenty of people shooting 158s and those retarded 180 JHPs out of them.


The early 101s in .357 even had it rollmarked onto the side of the barrel that they were limited to 125 gr ammo.
Remember, the gun when it first came out was a .38 SPC gun, not a .357.
I recall it was a "big deal" in the gun rags when it was rechambered in .357 with the 125 gr limitation......
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:29:44 AM EDT
[#32]
I went to buy a 4" GP100. They had a 3" and a 6" in stock. I held the 3" and got a boner. Bought it and love it. But now they come with those ghey Hogue grips.

3" or 4" GP100 gets my vote if not a Smith.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:33:26 AM EDT
[#33]




Quoted:



Quoted:



I don't currently have an SP101, but I've never heard such silliness. I know plenty of people shooting 158s and those retarded 180 JHPs out of them.




The early 101s in .357 even had it rollmarked onto the side of the barrel that they were limited to 125 gr ammo.

Remember, the gun when it first came out was a .38 SPC gun, not a .357.

I recall it was a "big deal" in the gun rags when it was rechambered in .357 with the 125 gr limitation......




Well, if Ruger didn't fix it, at least they were smart enough to take the limitation on ammo off of the barrel.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:38:48 AM EDT
[#34]
Sp101.

Get the 3" version.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:39:40 AM EDT
[#35]
The Rugers are great revolvers, but I prefer my 3" S&W 686 Plus.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:39:54 AM EDT
[#36]
I voted SP because it is just generally more practical for carry.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:41:45 AM EDT
[#37]


Link Posted: 11/20/2012 5:48:41 AM EDT
[#38]
Quoted:

Well, if Ruger didn't fix it, at least they were smart enough to take the limitation on ammo off of the barrel.


Apparently they did change it.
Heres a thread from a  Ruger forum

http://rugerforum.net/ruger-double-action/20455-older-model-ruger-sp101-357-mag-125-grain-bullet.html

From the early Ruger .357 101 owners manual:

"Special Ammunition Notice for .357 Revolvers marked “125 GR. BULLET”
only: Some revolvers have slightly shorter cylinders and frames and are
therefore limited to the use of .357 Magnum ammunition with a maximum
bullet weight of 125 grains and an overall loaded cartridge length of not
more than 1.57 inches. These revolvers are roll-marked with “125
GR.BULLET” on the right side of the barrel."

stevespages.com/pdf/ruger_sp101.pdf
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 6:04:04 AM EDT
[#39]




Quoted:



Quoted:



Well, if Ruger didn't fix it, at least they were smart enough to take the limitation on ammo off of the barrel.




Apparently they did change it.

Heres a thread from a Ruger forum



http://rugerforum.net/ruger-double-action/20455-older-model-ruger-sp101-357-mag-125-grain-bullet.html



From the early Ruger .357 101 owners manual:



"Special Ammunition Notice for .357 Revolvers marked "125 GR. BULLET”

only: Some revolvers have slightly shorter cylinders and frames and are

therefore limited to the use of .357 Magnum ammunition with a maximum

bullet weight of 125 grains and an overall loaded cartridge length of not

more than 1.57 inches. These revolvers are roll-marked with "125

GR.BULLET” on the right side of the barrel."



stevespages.com/pdf/ruger_sp101.pdf




I find it very interesting that this was EVER done. I guess when the made it a .357, they didn't bother to do anything with regard to cylinder length. I can't imagine this being a good idea.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 9:17:54 PM EDT
[#40]
Quoted:
Concealed carry=SP101 3"

General purpose service revolver (truck gun, home defense, etc)=GP100 4"


Damn.  I think this just became a "which order should I purchase them in" instead of a "which one should I purchase" thread.  
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 9:21:35 PM EDT
[#41]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Concealed carry=SP101 3"

General purpose service revolver (truck gun, home defense, etc)=GP100 4"


Damn.  I think this just became a "which order should I purchase them in" instead of a "which one should I purchase" thread.  


Now you're tracking. They both rock, but, shooting the pocket rocket (SP101) makes my hand stop working properly after a few shots.
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 9:28:14 PM EDT
[#42]
Quoted:
Quoted:
GP100 3" Talo edition with Novak sights.

http://www.floridaarmory.com/image.php?type=P&id=1348


I got one of these. Had to send it back for a cylinder replacement, but I think it's OK now.

I have one too, I had to send it back for repair when I first got it too. The cylinder lock wasn't working 100%.


Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile
Link Posted: 11/20/2012 9:28:52 PM EDT
[#43]
I voted SP-101.  Both nice guns, but if you've got big ones you need one that's easier to carry if you'd like to do so.
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