Which SP-101: .357 or 9x19?

R

RWK

New member
For some time, I have considered adding a Ruger SP-101 to my collection, principally as a “lighter” carry revolver (the remainder of my wheels are N frames and GP-100s) and/or backup piece. I want to get the three-inch barrel (velocity and sight radius) and presumed I’d opt for the .357 magnum -- but generally carry .38 Special +Ps to increase second shot speed.

I now see a used (but excellent quality), three-inch barrel, SP-101 available in 9x19, for under $300. I am sorely tempted.

I appreciate the great inherent flexibility of .357/.38 ammunition choices, but my thoughts are:
1) The 9x19 is at least as potent a round as the .38 Special, it is similarly accurate, and even more inexpensive and readily available.
2) Full moon clips provide a very fast reloads.

Your advice and opinions would be most welcome.
 
I was just discussing the merit of SP101 9mm's this evening with My buddies at work.I'm looking for one at the Gun Show in two weeks.I missed out on a .357 last show at $285.00 used and one of the other Formites was lucky enough to become the new owner of it.I'd like both calibers too so I understand the confusion.I'd suggest getting one of each so buy the 9mm now then look for a .357 later.tom.:D
 
I had one (matter of fact, by daughter still has it) in 9x19. I really enjoyed it--accurate and fun to shoot with an outstanding DA trigger pull. (I don't really remember the SA pull--I hardly ever shoot my DA revolvers SA.) The moon clips are great for loading and unloading (ejecting empty brass). I did find carrying the moon clips were a bit of a pain in the neck--they are kind of bulky in a pocket, and I lost a round or two out of them (in the pocket) occassionally. As much as I liked it, I found two speedstrips in the pocket are easier to carry (and more secure).
 
I would jump on it. They are hard to find and you would have a truely unique and functional gun. The 9mm in snubbie is more towards the 357 side of 38/357 scale. In a 3" you would get some good energies from the rounds. Moon clips would be smaller than the speed loaders I carry for my snubbies. You will have to make sure you get moons for the SP...I dont know if 940 clips will work........may be something to look into.
Shoot well
 
If you do not get it, email me to let me know where it is and if you would check it out per Jim March's revolver check out tips in the TFL library. I am really wanting one of them patiently RIGHT NOW!!!!
 
I have one in 9x19 and don't regret it at all. I have carried it mainly as an ankle gun. It has been reliable and accurate. I wouldn't trade it for anything.

I carry Winchester Ranger 115gr +P+ in it and it performs very similar to a 357mag. Loading the moon clips is faster than speedloaders and when you eject the clips you never have hangups, they all eject together.

6mm
 
If I were in your shoes, I'd jump on that 9mm in a heartbeat!

I've had a 3" SP-101 in .357 and it's been a real workhorse for training, mostly with .38 ammo.

If I had the opportunity, I would like 9mm because of better availability of even less expensive ammo.

Got a CHL student who had a Kahr K-9 and (back when possible)special ordered what you are considering just to be able to feed them both the same ammo. He's been quite pleased.
 
FWIW, if I ever see another 9x19 SP at a decent price, it's going on the credit card. I see .357s all the time . . .
 
Bought one new on sale for $315 with a 3" barrel in 357Mag. Changed the springs to Wolff from Brownell's and bought a Hogue grip. This has got to be one of my favorites to shoot now.
 
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