Introduction/Ruger SP101- best modifications?

Martellus

Inactive
Hey Guys, This is the first thread I've posted so go easy on me. I run a small channel on YouTube by the same name.

I recently finished a review of the Ruger SP101 and in the video (https://youtu.be/NOXKsnSdGok) I recommended using the Hogue Monogrip and a Wilson Combat spring kit (brand name isn't important). Both have worked really well for me. Do you have recommendations for any further mods/improvements to my personal gun? Thanks in advance
 
Welcome to the forum!

You've shot 1000 magnums and you still don't know what it needs? :confused:

The ejection issue might deserve a trip back to Ruger. Not sure I'd want to trust it as a defense gun with that and that really what this gun was made for.
 
Yeah, it is headed back to have that part ground down(?). Just wanted to run the question by some old hands to see if I'm missing anything.
 
I don't have an SP but have two GP100s since this spring. If you're happy with the grips and the action, the only other thing I can think of to mess with is the front sight. Other than that, just shoot and enjoy. :)
 
I just replaced the springs and grip on mine but haven't had it out to the range yet. I hated the factory grips.
 
Do you have recommendations for any further mods/improvements to my personal gun? Thanks in advance

How many rounds have you actually shot through it? If less than, ohhhhh, a thousand, stifle the urge to monkey with the gun.

I've found, myself, that most "Internet gunboard approved!" modifications aren't worth doing.
 
Nicely done - your video that is.
As far as your question about messing further with your Ruger, Lee makes good points.
More time at the range and less time reading parts catalogs, forums and blogs is beneficial to us all.
 
Martellus said:
Do you have recommendations for any further mods/improvements to my personal gun?

1. Bob the hammer and convert to DAO. You shoot DA anyway (kudos, btw ;)), and, all else equal, bobbing the hammer actually helps reliability, something to consider if you've lightened the action.

2. Radius the trigger. The SP101's squared off trigger kills my trigger finger (is that the "hot spot" you mentioned?). I'd have to radius the trigger if it were mine.

3. Install a fiber optic front sight. You might be fine with the factor front sight, but most factory front sights leave a lot to be desired.

4. Chamfer the chamber mouths (only a very light chamfer, if any, on the ejector star, though). Chamfering helps a lot when doing speedy reloads.

5. If the action's still got any roughness in it, consider a full action job. Lighter spring might feel better, but it's only a small part of a good action job, which can make a world of difference.

Nice vid. Thanks for posting.
 
The throats in my SP101 in 357 Magnum were reamed to .3575 to be more compatible with lead bullets. However, now I shoot only coated lead in it other than JHP defensive rounds. I believe the forcing cone was optimized at the same time, but it has been awhile.

Note that I have the SP101 in three calibers (of the five I know of), so it would be helpful for you to be clear to which caliber version you are referring.
 
Just remember if you send your gun back to Ruger they will reinstall factory springs and just might replace your grip. I would put all the factory stuff back on it first. Just a thought.
 
I am a relatively new Ruger owner and found my SP101 could use a little improvement to suite my needs. First off, the grips had to go. They made the gun carry much larger than it actually is. I replaced them with the Badger boot grips and now can carry in my boot, or in my front pocket without the grip bulge.

I also wanted a larger front sight to help with my 46 year old eyes and the XS night sight made a world of difference to me.

The trigger smoothed out with use but I also installed a reduced power mainspring but left the trigger return spring stock. She now suites me just fine and is in my carry rotation....YMMV


Nice video BTW! :)



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MrBorland, thank you for your good advice. I think I will probably go with the fiber optic sight first and follow with the chamfering. In regards, to your question about the hot spot, I don't believe it has anything to do with my trigger face, which is actually (and surprisingly) polished and rounded on my gun.
 
Ak-kev, your SP101 is a beaut! Those Badger grips look fantastic!

Some months ago I took the bait from the Badger kudos and bought grips for my SP101 and hated them. I am not a fan of how they look either. Too much palm swell and no ledge to grip with the overflowing pinky. The grips are a lot of money to be thrown in a box. I would then say they aren't for everyone. If possible, try before you buy.

The Badger guys are probably at my area's gun show this weekend.
 
Quote "Ak-kev, your SP101 is a beaut! Those Badger grips look fantastic!"



Thank you Martellus. They are really fantastic for me. The fit is flawless and they reduce the overall footprint of the gun. I use them on all my carry guns. Thank you again. Kevin.
 
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