Newbie's First Gun / GP100

I think you're making a very solid decision for a first/HD gun. I was in your shoes not long ago and looked long and hard at the 4" GP100. I ended up with a used S&W Model 10 instead, but that was only because money was tight at the time. I lost the ability to shoot .357 but I saved about 300 bucks in the process. I had planned to upgrade to the GP100 when I had the money but I just love that Model 10 so dang much. It's likely going to stay with me forever.

As for the S&W Airweight you said you'd like to get for CC, definitely look into the Ruger LCR as well. I did tons of internet research on the perfect CC revolver and I was pretty dead set on an Airweight. But when I got to the gun store and had a chance to actually hold it in my hands, it just didn't feel quite right. The guy behind the counter said he felt the same way about them and much preferred the LCR. So he let me check it out and I was in total agreement. It just felt better in my hands, but of course your mileage may vary.
 
How about a Taurus Judge? Load it with shotgun shells and have the benefit of both.

I have shotguns in my home as well, but my wife isn't as comfortable with guns as I am, so for her it's a good fit. She carries a 38 s/w, and a Judge is one less type for her to learn how to work.
 
I have a 4.2" GP100 and love it. I would use it for HD, if it wasn't so darned loud. Not that you would care that much if you were in such a situation. I put the tritium night sights on it and it is a great performer. I have shot many loads through it, including handloads, and i would like to mention that the recoil of a 110gr SD .357 bullet is really not bad at all. The GP has a nice heavy frame (42oz i think?) and really handles the recoil nicely. Once you shoot some 180s through it, you will understand how mild the 110s are through that particular gun. Great choice, i love mine.
 
Hello everybody. I will soon be a first time gun owner and was looking for a home defense gun. I was set on getting a shotgun, but now (after much research) have decided that a revolver would actually be a better choice (though I still will eventually get a shotgun).
The Ruger GP100 looks like the perfect choice. Revolvers are supposed to be simple and extremely reliable,

They are simple in operation. Not necessarily simple in construction. This not a "revolver vs. autoloader" Internet micturation contest. Each has its own particular modes of failure.

exactly what I'm looking for. Just wanted to ask if a 4" barrel is a good all around choice.

4" barrel is a good all around choice.

Also, is .38 special ammo a good home defense round (enough stopping power)?

Enh. Maybe.

I know a the 357 mag round will probably stop anything and everything, but I was wondering if the .38 would be easier to handle, less recoil (especially for the Mrs./wifey).
I would like to get a S & W j-frame (airweight) for concealed carry,

Small light weight snubs are not easy. Not a good beginner's gun. Those are for when you get good. They do have their attractions.
 
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I think the 4" blued Ruger GP is an excellent house gun. Lots of ammo choices for home defense, ranging from standard pressure .38 Specials to the hottest Magnums. Your choice will depend somewhat on your own proficiency and comfort level with the round, while also considering the layout of your house and any other people in the area.

As for a carry revolver, definitely look at the Ruger LCR. The .38 Special model is less than 14-oz and the .357 model is under 18-oz.

The J-frame S&W carry guns range from about 21-oz for the steel framed M60, to about 11-oz for the expensive scandium and titanium models. The reasonably-priced alloy framed 642 and 442 is about 15-oz and a good compromise between carry weight and recoil control.
 
How about a Taurus Judge? Load it with shotgun shells and have the benefit of both.

no just no.

A GP100 with +P .38s used to be my go to HD gun. recoil is minimal and the blast isnt .357 loud.
 
The felt recoil of 38 Special +P 158 grain is about half that of 357 Magnum 125 grain JSP that I tested. It's fine for defense so long as you use good JHP rounds.
 
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