Ruger GP 100

I've got a GP100 and 686. Honestly, the two are so closely matched that it would be very hard to say which I prefer. Both are 4" versions, shoot the same reloads good, close to the same trigger pull (after some work on both), and use the same holsters. Given I got both of mine on trades, I can't complain too much about the prices. For my money and budget, I'd go with the Ruger. Leaves you enough for ammo, holster, and even trigger job if you choose to have you.
 
I have owned two GP's since they hit the market. I have one with the full under lug and one with the half both in the 6" models. They have both been extremely accurate with both jacketed and cast bullet loads.

Years ago we had a small handgun tourney where I chose to use my 41 magnum with reduced loads, instead of either of the GP's. After the match one of the fellows was talking smack about how he had beat me in group sizes, but had just missed out in total score. I just laughed and told him it was only due to me giving him points by using the 41. It kept up and got to the point of put up, or shut up.

So I took out my half lugged GP, loaded 6 rounds with the Speer 146gr SJHP and proceeded to shoot the individual 1/2" numbers on the target at 25yds from left to right. When I got through with my last round I brought the target in and asked, "any questions?" :D

I had been shooting that bullet for a LONG time in that one, and even taken my first handgun deer with it. I was good with 5 out of 6 on a 2" bull out to past 50yds pretty easily and sometimes even 6 outta 6, hitting at 25 it was a cake walk.

I have never done much of anything with them other than play with a couple of different sight sets and swap the grips around once in while. They just do so well with everything form 125 up through 180grs there really isn't much one needs to do.
 
So I took out my half lugged GP, loaded 6 rounds with the Speer 146gr SJHP and proceeded to shoot the individual 1/2" numbers on the target at 25yds from left to right. When I got through with my last round I brought the target in and asked, "any questions?"
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Grennell and Clapp put together the Gun Digest Book of Handgun Reloading back in 1987. Part of the book was a section where they did Ransom Rest testing on 30 different handguns of various calibers. They tested 15-40 different loads in each gun.

The best group from any gun using any loading was from a GP100 using a Hornady 140grJHP. Second best from any gun any loading was from the same GP100 using a Sierra 140grJHP. They tested 31 loads in that gun (6 shot groups at 25 yards) and the worst group they got was 2.5".
 
What John said^^^^

GP100's are built tough and remain accurate.

Cylinder latches are off set- fixes timing and lock-up issues

Crane has locking latch-allows barrel to be lowered as guide rod is not a locking point like Smith and Colts-This provides more metal in the forcing cone area.

GP100 are easy to take down and work on or replace parts or polish parts.

I finally tried the Altamont grips and love them. They have a pattern on them that gives a more positive grip but not too aggressive.

Front sight is easy to replace...I just paint mine with super bright orange nail polish. Others use Tester's model paint...white base with neon orange top coats.

I have owned Colts, Smiths and Rugers. I now only own Smith j-frames, SP101s and GP100s. Just that good!
 
I've always though Rugers were a bargain and are built like a tank. Had a stainless 6" years ago and traded it off for a 4" model. The 4" full lugged feels better balanced to me and with a spring kit and a little polishing the trigger can be made to be almost as smooth as the Smiths. I also own several S&W's chambered in .357 as well. I have to say now that Rugers prices are creeping closer and closer to the Smiths they seem to be less of a bargain.
 
I am looking for my first handgun-
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Sandiphete, you do realize if you bought them BOTH you'd still only have TWO handguns and NOBODY on this forum would think that that would be excessive. Most wouldn't think it would even be ADEQUATE. :D

Plus the way things seem to be going in 10 years you could sell off one and that would pay for both of them.
 
They're both used, from the same source, so I could make the argument that it's a bargain. :-) I have been very hung up on what I was going to buy. But I have come to the conclusion that this probably isn't a once in a lifetime purchase, and if I decide that it's not what I want, I can always buy something else.
 
I own both S&W revolvers and a GP 100, I always wanted a GP 100....just Loved the look. In comparing the 2 the S&W trigger seemed to break a little cleaner, I disassembled the Ruger, polished the sear face and man that helped it a lot. I still think the S&W's break a little cleaner but not so much that it's a deal breaker. The GP 100 I have is a 4 in barrel SS, I have several Rugers of different models and FOR ME - JUST FOR ME- it seems the blue finish on a Ruger doesn't stand up as well. I'm sure others have a different experience. Last thing to consider is price, S&W are considerably higher than a Ruger. I just don't see it. Bottom line, Rugers are built like a tank. Buy it, you won't regret it. Good Luck. I hope that helps.
 
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As much as I like S&W, if I was going to take a DA revolver in the boonies or shoot a lot of hot 357 out of it, I would pick the GP-100. They are a very good value considering what they cost.

 
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