SP101 for concealed carry

R

Redleg

New member
I've decided to carry an SP101 while off duty. Now I just have to choose a configuration. I'm going with .357 for the added versitility but will probably still carry .38+P ammo in it. Now, should I go with the 2 or 3 inch barrel? I know in theory the extra inch will give me a little bit more control but is it worth the extra bulk? I've shot a three inch and love the feel, will the two inch be that different? I also like the idea of a hammerless for concealability and I shoot double action anyway. If I go with the three inch could a good smith take the hammer down for me?
 
I have a 3" SP-101 and love it. The extra inch makes very little difference in size and weight. Since I carry it in an IWB holster, it is virtually a non-issue and like you said, the extra length may decrease the felt recoil and also give a little extra fps.

You could probably have the hammer bobbed with no problem. I like having a hammer myself, but that's just a personal preference.
 
IMHO, the extra weight and size of the three inch are inconsequential whereas the benefits (muzzle velocity, sight radius, recoil/flip reduction, and so forth) are significant. I would opt for the three-inch barrel.
 
As the owner and lover of a 2" SP..I would have to agree. The weight wouldnt be an issue and the way I carry, IWB you would never notice.....3" may have the upper hand.
Shoot well
 
I carry a 2" SP101 in 9mm for both my backup and for off-duty. The little SP101 is an ideal BUG and offduty gun. The only problem I have had with it was last week, we were on a pursuit and I stopped and to pickup the Sheriff, who didn't have a gun with him, and he took my SP101, and when it was over didn't want to give my SP101 back!!

6mm
 
SP-101 barrel lengths

I've got a 3" that just may be my favorite .357 ever; shoots as good as any 4" fixed sight .357 I ever had. I will say this for the 2", though- if 'ankle carry' is a possibility or will likely be the main carry mode, go with the 2". It'll probably shoot almost as well and be a bit easier to pack.

BTW, never let your wife or girlfriend shoot your SP. I did, and I'm probably gonna have to buy another now. It'll be a 2" this time.
 
SP101 Hammerless, 2" bbl and a High Noon IWB holster. This is my second SP101, the first is now in a purse. BTW 125 Grain Federal HP's chronographed 1250 FPS out of the 2" bbl. What a hand full.
 
Another minor consideration........

Hey Redleg: I'd opt for the 3" barrel for another small edge: better sight radius. One more inch is one more inch. Good choice.
 
2 1/8" is my choice

I carry an SP 101 with a 2 1/8" barrel inside a High Noon Mister Softy IWB. Mine has the standard hammer because that is my personal preference.

You really can't go wrong with either one - choose the one that feels best and make sure to toss the cheesy factory grips and put on some Hogues. Ruger SP 101's are excellent CCW's IMHO .....
 
Thanks for all the help.

Funny thing about women and the SP101's. My mother-in-law and sister-in-law both carry them. My wife, being a teacher, doesn't carry on a regular basis but enjoys shooting whatever's available, including the SP101. I found a source for good condition used 2" SP101's that sells them discounted to LEO's only. This may be the determining factor if I can't find a 3" at as good a price. Thanks again for all the info.
 
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