[Porter_Rockwell]

Hey all,

I see these 642 and 686 clubs...what about us Ruger owners!?! I like my Smith, but I love my Rugers! I guess this club could post on any SP (since there are old .22, .32 and 9mm...and of course the current production .38) but I thought we could do a .357 club since it is my favorite and also the most common. Feel free to answer these questions.

1) What do you own? I currently own two SP101's in .357 mag. I have a 3 inch stainless and a 2 in in Target Grey. I have owned up to four. I used to own a regular stainless 2 inch and I also had a hammerless 2 inch. Sold both.

2) What grips do you use? I have a 3 inch stainless with Hogue grips and a 2 inch Target Grey with Pachmeyer Compact grips. I will post a pic once I can get my computer to do so.

3) Ammo in use: I usually carry the two inch for CCW with Winchester 145 STHP or Gold Dot 135 .357 or 38. If I am not carrying my GP100 in the woods, the 3 inch will often times be stoked with Federal 180 grain HC or even Corbon 200 grain HC.

4) Future changes considered for your gun(s)? I have a laser sight on order from CT for the 2 inch. I may think about putting an Ashely big dot on the 2 inch as well.

5) If Ruger was to produce or bring back another caliber in the SP, what would you want? I think Ruger could have a huge market if they did a .40 with moon clips. I think it would be great for the civilian and the police market. I would also love to get my hands on on a 9mm as well.

6) Questions you have for other SP owners: I am wondering if anyone has a Big Dot sight and how much it affects POA and POI? Also, does anyone have any ballistic results for Winchester 110 grain .357 out of a 2 inch?

7) Holster(s): I use an Uncle Mikes for the 3 inch and a nice Galco OWB for the 2 inch. In addition I use an Uncle Mike BB for Deep stuff.

8) Speed Loader(s): HKS and Bianchi and Speed Strips.

9) Reloading: I don't reload, but will be soon. No recipes to offer yet!

God Bless and have fun.

Porter

[19-3Ben]

My SP101 3" .357 mag with Speer SB Gold Dots.
Carry it nearly every day, and it sleeps next to my bed at night. I have other guns, but this is my one true "do-it-all" gun.

It will be the last gun to ever leave my side.

edit to add:
BTW, it wears Hogue Monogrips, gets worn in either an AKJ Concealco IWB, or a Bianchi speed scabbard holster.
And yes, despite what it looks like in the picture, the gun has been shot many times. I am just good about cleaning (Brasso on a felt wheel on rotary tool is key).

[Michigunner]

Porter,

That's an excellent idea to have a SP101 .357 Magnum Club.

Mine is 2 1/4 inch and not yet fired. I've got the Gold Dot 135 Mag ammo all ready to visit the range.

I'm thinking about using it as primary carry since it does not show any with the shirt out. It is virtually pasted to my side with a belt holster. My HK USP Compact .45 is a little noticeable.

I hope it will have sufficient stopping power. Apparently the muzzle energy will be under 300 ft/lbs.

Bill

[roscoe]

You can get a lot better than 300 foot-pounds from a .357, even a short one. Like, over 500 pounds, if you are in the mood. It might smart your second finger, a bit. Makes a big noise.

[Cosmoline]

I graduated to the Speed Six club :D

[Legionnaire]

I have a 2" .357. It wears the factory grips with Lett wood inserts. I bought it with a spurred hammer, and picked up an additional spurless hammer on-line; I switch back and forth depending on current thinking. I've updated the springs with a Wolff spring kit, and carry IWB with a Clipdraw (http://www.clipdraw.com/). It's my favorite carry piece at the moment.

I'd look for a 3" SP101 if I didn't have a 4" adjustable sight GP100. I replaced the original factory grips on the GP with the smaller grip from a fixed sight model. Not exactly the same size grip as the SP101, but it uses the same inserts, to give you an idea of size. I like the smaller grips better, even though I have big hands. It was the SP that put me on the search for the smaller grip for the GP. Both are great guns. GP in the picture is wearing its original grips; need to shoot another pic with the current, smaller grips.

http://thehighroad.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=51531&d=1169177074

[gp911]

2" DAO here.

Great little gun, still needs deburred (and cleaned :uhoh: ) but she's a good shooter.


gp911

[lawson]

here's mine. I purchased it as a birthday present to myself last summer, and it has quickly become one of my favorites. they smooth up nicely with use.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v154/lawson/DSCF0572.jpg

(note how my ruger money clip is full of ones :D )

[GaryArkansas]

Those full house .357 loads in a two inch are a handful (and a earful).

I only shoot a few cylinders at a time, then I go home and take a couple of aspirin.

[10-Ring]

In a new snubby wheelgun, I really like the Ruger hammerless sp101

[Serpico]

http://www.parkcitiestactical.com/album/00000364/P10006661.jpg

[rogerjames]

I have only been shooting for about 4-5 months. 357 3" SP101 was my first and only handgun purchase so far. Added Trijicon front night sight. I have small hands and found this a very comfortable fit. I initially loved the factory grips but eventually found them a little slippery. I bought Hogue grips but they felt a little big so I switched to Pachmayr Compact grips and I love them. They add a little weight but they are grippier(is that actually a word?) and fill my hand perfectly.

I just finished a home trigger job last week and replaced factory springs with Wolff. I just got back from the range about an hour a go since the above mentioned changes. Fired about 120 rounds, 100 .38 & +P, 20 .357. NO MISFIRES OR MALFUNCTIONS and the difference in control, trigger pull, and accuracy was significant. I'm a noobie to handguns period so I'm sure experience and practice contributed somewhat to my improved accuracy but I would attribute at lease 50% of my improvement tonight to the new springs and trigger polish. Without exact measurements I would estimate previous spreads at 8"-10" from 7 yards shooting double taps, quicky with no sighting (trying to simulate quick self-defense scenario). Again, without exact measurements I would estimates tonight's spreads at 3"-4" from same distance and technique. Tonight was also my first time shooting .357. I have previously been to the range about 5 times and only shot about 400-500 rounds of .38 and .38 +P. I must admit that as a noobie I was apprehensive about shooting .357 but I decidied to try it tonight and found it to be a "puddy tat" in this weapon. Admittedly it was L&B 158gr FMJ & I assume this is a friendlier load than many self-defense rounds. Anyway, this is my first and only gun so far and I love it. I plan on getting compact 9 or .40 for CCW, probably S&W M&P but this gun will always be in nightstand. It's currently loaded with Federal Hydrashok 129 gr .38 +P JHP. I haven't shot Speer but sounds like I should. I really like Fiocchi 129 gr .38 but it's SP instead of HP but it feels like a stronger load as a .38 than the Federal feels as a +P. I live in a condo and I am worried about overpenetration.

I highly recommend the Wolff springs for anyone who finds the factory DA pull a little too heavy for consistent accuracy. I also found the trigger edges a little too sharp for comfort. I used 400 grit sandpaper to soften the edges. It left some visible scratches but made the trigger much more comfortable. I used Mother's Billet Metal Polish from auto part store and a dremmel to remove sandpaper scratches from trigger and to polish the trigger innards. Sorry for rambling a bit but I just came back from the range so excited and then came to the revolver forum and found a thread on my only and favorite gun!!

[Ichiro]

My Ruger SP-101, 2.25" carries SB Gold Dot .38s.

I do like to shoot .357s with it, though, but only with Pachmayr Compac grips. The stock grips do not soak the recoil as well.

110-grain shoot way low, 158-grain shoot well and are fun but "blastey," 125-grain actually hurt.

The SP-101 is brilliant as a .38, but I can also load the 125-gr Mags if I feel threatened. Not that it's fun to shoot with those.

[Legionnaire]

Link to the SP101 Picture Thread (http://thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=222712&highlight=sp101+picture+thread).

[Gary A]

I have the SP101 in a couple of configurations, 2.25 w/hammer, bobbed-hammer DAO, and 3 inch w/hammer. (I didn't buy them all at once. :) ) If I had to do without every gun I own but one, it would be an SP101, probably the 3 inch in that situation. The very best small .357 IMO.

[Ichiro]

Whenever I'm tempted to buy a J-frame .357, I just shoot a box of .357 through my SP-101.

At best, a J-frame is made of steel and has a comfortable grip, making .357s tolerable. Since I already have an SP, my desire for a J-frame .357 disappears.

[DWARREN123]

Mine is the 3" barreled 357 mag. Houge Mono-Grips, speed loaders, strip loaders, field and pancake holster (both leather). I like Rugers but this small frame revolver stands out in my mind.

[Porter_Rockwell]

Lawson---That is a Target Grey isn't it? Same as what I currently own. Nice dressy grips! Made by who?

Legionnaire---Nice photo as well. Thanks for the link to the photo shoot!

Rogerjames---How does the night sight affect your POA/POI issues? I have heard some say that the trijicon consistently shoots very low on it is installed. What has been your experience?

Thanks all. Lets keep this thing going!

God Bless,

Porter.

[sloman]

hey group, I currently own two SP101's: a 3" and 2" one. Selling the 2" on the buy/sell board, just don't need. But I love my 3"! That's a keeper! Hope to learn more about this gun from this site!

[Ghost Tracker]

...and now my carry revolver is a 3" SP101. I spent 3-4 hours one rainy Sunday afternoon with; bright lighting, a Jeweler's loupe, diamond hones, 1000 grit emery cloth, a variable speed Ryobi rotary-tool, felt pads, Mother's Metal polish and a GREAT set of action-tuning instructions I printed off from RugerShooters.com (I think). When I finished & re-assembled my SP101 (with Hogue Monogrips) I found I had turned a very practical tackle-box pistol into a highly preferred carry-gun. And I've got a BUNCH of other carry-gun options.

I had previously bought into the foolish Gunshop gossip that you COULD NOT tune a Ruger revolver to within yelling distance of a S&W. Well, that's horse crap. Maybe a Grand Master PPC Shooter could tell the difference...but I'm here to inform you that my SP101 is as slick as Teflon socks on a glass floor (with all stock factory springs)!

We all know it already, the SP101 is truly a pitbull of a pistol (BIG dog on a compact chassis). I still want a tritium front sight & a set of C/T laser grips when the new rubber (shock absorbing) model becomes available. But there is no better choice in a 5 shot .357 mag. revolver, at ANY price, than the Ruger SP101. I'll stake my life on it...and do.

[sloman]

What type of rig do you carry it in Daily?

[rogerjames]

Porter - since I'm relatively a noobie I'm not sure how accurate my info would be. I only shot about 100-150 rounds before the night sight was put on and about 350 since. However, I met up with a buddy a couple weeks ago who had never shot my gun. From 25 yards he was all over the bullseye, and normally shoots his XD low and to the left. I've always felt that the gun shot a little low of POA, but I believe the sights were calibrated for .357 loads and I was primarily shooting .38s. With .38 + P and .357 I have found POA to be quite accurate with the night sight, ...in my amateur opinion.

[Legionnaire]

Ghost Tracker, we'd all be much obliged if you can post a link to the action-tuning instructions you reference! I pulled the following from RugerForum.com. Same instruction set? I've not tried this yet, but plan to.

------------------------------
Posted by Iowegan:
"Here's the instructions for a SP-101 Action Job. The same procedure will work for a GP-100 or a Super Redhawk however the part numbers will be different.

You can refer to the SP-100 schematic on Brownell's web site, I'll include the schematic numbers for parts as I go. http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/schematics/schemmfg.aspx?schemid=31&m=13&mn=Ruger%c2%ae&model=SP101+ It's easier to print it than try to switch from screen to screen.
Disassembly:

1. Remove the grips. Note a small pin will fall out (8).

2. Cock the hammer and insert the small pin (8) in the hammer strut hole then slowly lower the hammer and remove the hammer strut assembly (23,28,29). If you don't have the pin, a paper clip will do.

3. Pull the trigger all the way back then push the hammer pivot pin out (22) and lift the hammer (61) out.

4. Locate the trigger guard latch (42). It is a spring-loaded plunger that holds the trigger assembly in and is located about 1/2" down from the top of the grip frame channel, inside the grip frame. Use a screwdriver to push the latch pin forward while pulling down on the trigger guard. The complete trigger assembly will come out as a unit.

5. Set the gun aside and we'll work on the trigger assembly. Pull the trigger about a 1/2" and remove the transfer bar (41).

6. The next step requires attention because a spring-loaded plunger will launch. Put the trigger assembly in a plastic bag then hold the trigger back while pulling the pawl (30) to the right. The spring and plunger (3 & 4) will pop out.

7. Locate the small retaining pin (21) at the upper corner of the frame latch, just above the trigger guard latch pin. Push the trigger guard latch in (42). Use a paper clip to push the retaining pin (21) out. Note: schematic shows two #21, you want the one by the trigger assembly.

8. Pull the trigger guard latch out of the hole. Use your paper clip in the front of the hole to push and remove the trigger guard latch spring (43) and trigger link plunger (46).

10. Pull the trigger back then use your paper clip to push the trigger pin (64) out then lift the trigger out.

11. Remove the trigger plunger (47) from the trigger.

12. Back to the plastic bag for another launching part. Pull the cylinder latch (5) to the right and another spring and plunger (7 & 31) will pop out. Note: this spring and plunger look like the one from the pawl only longer.

Now let the polishing began:

13. The trigger assembly is stripped ready to do some work. Start by using a jeweler's file to "dehorn" any galls or rough spots you can see or feel on the trigger housing (63). The inside walls of the trigger channel and the front latch lip in particular.

14. I lied! you will need one more tool for the next task. Use a 13/64" drill bit and insert it inside the hole for the trigger guard latch. You don't want to drill the hole any deeper, just hand twist the bit to remove any galls. This hole is usually rough and accounts for a gritty trigger feel when the plunger moves over the rough spots. Sometimes the holes are so bad that you can't hand turn the bit. I have an old drill chuck off a dead drill the works really great for jobs like this.

15. Look at the trigger (62) and locate the rounded cam on top and the SA sear at the end of the cam. Buff the cam and sear nice and smooth without removing metal. I use a buffing wheel on my bench grinder or a Dremmel tool with a felt wheel. The smoothness of the cam and SA sear will make a big difference in both DA and SA trigger pull. Make sure you don't change the sear angle or remove much metal, only enough to make it smooth. Dehorn any sharp edges on the sides of the trigger.

16. Locate the trigger plunger (47) and find the 45 degree angle at one end. This surface must be very smooth in order for the trigger to reset. Buff it without removing metal. Dehorn the sides.

17. Locate the cylinder latch (5) and look for the surface on the bottom of the part that looks like a backwards "L". The surface parallel to the hole must be smooth. This part is often very rough with machine marks. It must be smooth to get a trigger reset. Dress the surface and buff it. Buff the rounded area of the latch that locks into the cylinder. Smooth and shiny will reduce cylinder drag lines.

18. Locate the transfer bar (41) and dehorn it.

19. Locate the pawl (30) and dehorn it then buff the tip, especially the left corner. This part contacts the ratchets and will rasp in DA if not smooth.

20. OK, we're ready to reassemble the trigger group. Start by inserting the long spring plunger (7 & 31) into the trigger guard (63). Slide the cylinder stop (5) round end up, on the shaft until it touches the plunger. Back to the plastic bag. Use a tool to push the plunger in while sliding the cylinder stop in place. Out of the bag.

21. Place the trigger plunger (47) back in the trigger. The nose goes in the slot first, between the stud and base. Make sure it is not upside down (see schematic).

22. Set the trigger in the trigger guard making sure the trigger link (44) goes in the latch hole. Align the holes and insert the trigger pin (64). You may have to insert a paper clip in the back of the plunger hole to position the trigger link.

23. The trigger should swing freely in the trigger guard. If not, disassemble, isolate the bind and file it down.

24. Pull the trigger back and insert the spring plunger (3 & 4) in the hole. Back to the plastic bag and slide the pawl shaft part way in the hole. Use a tool to push the plunger down while sliding the pawl (30) into position.

25. Insert the trigger link plunger (46) into the plunger hole, cupped end first. Insert your reduced power Wolff trigger spring. Use the heaviest one in the kit.

26. Insert the trigger guard latch (42), flat side up then push it in while inserting the lock pin (21).

26. Pull the trigger part way back and insert the transfer bar (41) into the trigger.

27. Set the trigger group aside for now and go back to the gun. Press the cylinder release and swing the cylinder out. Pull the cylinder assembly forward to remove it from the frame.

28. Hold the cylinder so the ratchets are up. Inspect each ratchet for galls and rough spots. Use a jeweler's file to dress smooth. You are concerned with the portion of the ratchet where you can see a slight angle. This angle's vertical surface is where the pawl drags and must be smooth. Don't take any more metal off than is absolutely necessary else timing will be affected.

29. Look inside the frame and inspect for galls or nasty spots. Do not dress the outer surface or it will not mate properly with the trigger group. It's not unusual to find splinters of stainless material so clean them out and dehorn.

30. Locate the hammer and use a paper clip to push out the hammer dog pivot pin (21), the one in the schematic by the hammer. There is a spring plunger under the hammer dog but it shouldn't launch.

31. Inspect the hammer dog (no number) and dehorn it. Buff the bottom rear surface (long end). This surface mates with the DA cam and must be smooth.

32. Inspect the sear notch at the end of the hammer extension. This is the SA sear and must be smooth. Dress if necessary but do not remove any more material than you absolutely have to make it smooth.

33. Install the hammer dog, long end down and insert the hammer dog pivot pin (21). Test the hammer dog for free springy movement.

34. Locate the hammer strut assembly. Draw a sketch of how the seat is on the strut. If you reassemble upside down or backwards, it won't work. Place the ball end of the hammer strut (23) vertically in a vise, up to the spring. Use a kitchen fork and force the tines between the mainspring (28) and the mainspring seat (29). Compress the spring by pushing the fork down with one thumb on the ends of the fork tines and the handle in the other hand. Compress until you can pull the pin out of the strut. Be careful! Ease the mainspring and seat off of the strut.

35. Use your file and dress the spring strut. All edges where the spring rides must be smooth or DA pull will feel gritty.

36. Install the heaviest of the new Wolff hammer springs. With the strut in the vise as before, use your fork to compress the spring then slide the seat on as per your sketch. Insert the pin (8) to retain the assembly. Dress the strut's ball tip and make sure there are no rough or sharp areas.

37. You are now ready to reassemble the gun. Start by installing the cylinder assembly in the frame and snap the cylinder shut.

38. Lay the trigger assembly in place and hook the nosepiece into the frame. Hold the muzzle up to get the transfer bar back, then muzzle down and snap the trigger assembly into the frame. If it doesn't go in easily, don't force it. The pawl and/or the transfer bar may not be in the proper position. Pulling the trigger slightly may help.

39. Pull the trigger all the way back and set the hammer (61) in position. Insert the hammer pivot pin (22).

40. With the hammer forward, muzzle down, insert the ball tip end of the strut, flat edge up, into the hammer recess until the seat is positioned over the lugs. Cock the hammer and pull the pin out. Replace the grips and you're done."

I have a tuned .357 SP and with the pound mainspring and 8 pound trigger return spring the double action is about 8.4 pounds. So far, it has worked on what I have fed it (WW, Federal, Remington) but I have not run any CCI thru it except Blazer which works. The headspace is at minimum. Another member here has an article posted at:
http://www.thesixgunjournal.net/repatriatedrugergp.html

on working with firing pin protrusion on a GP which would work on the SP if required. As an aside Teddy Jacobson tuned SP's come out of the shop at around a 9 pound double action with a relatively quick trigger reset (had one). The above article by Iowegan addresses the trigger reset issue.

[Handyman]

I have the 2.25" . It is the first hangun I got and is my ccw . I got it on sale , new , for $325 when a sporting goods chain store was going out of buisness . I replaced the factory grips with Hogues' wich made it much nicer to shoot .

[sean m]

I have a 2.25" SP101 for two years. I found it to be a good shooter.

[rogerjames]

Legionnaire, those are the same instructions I followed to do my trigger job, using the Brownell's schematic for reference and I had no problem. I eliminated or skipped a few of the steps but basically followed step for step. That was my first time breaking the gun down that far and had no problems putting back together. Definitely use a large plastic bag that you can fit both hands in when the step suggests such use or you may lose those 2 small springs and plunger.

[Michigunner]

I've got arthritis in the shooting hand, but hope to get through the Gold Dot .357 Short Barrel ammo without too much pain.

Does anybody have any suggestions for the next step up in muzzle energy on a 2 1/4 inch SP101? I would feel better with some premium ammo with about 350 ft/lbs or so.

Or should we just say that Gold Dot Short Barrel .357 is fully optimized with the correct balance between recoil and power?

Bill

[Ichiro]

The Corbon +Ps give more bullet energy than the SB .357s and are way easier to shoot.

[ECVMatt]

I am very excited. I traded in my Glock 29 for it. It makes a much better gun for a fishing creel or short hiking excursion.

Can't wait to get it on the 10th.

Matt

[magsnubby]

I wasn't looking for another magnum snubby when i ran across my SP101. I bought it nib from a friend that wasn't renewing his ffl. I figured if i didn't like it then i could always sell it and make alittle money off of it. Then i shot it. Then i had an action job done, bobbed the hammer, converted to D/A only, added an orange front sight insert and Hogue grips. Then i shot the hell out of it. I even decided i liked it better (and i really hate to admit this) than my S&W 66 snubby.
I's a keeper.

[Michigunner]

Thanks, Ichiro.

Could you please tell which of the Corbon 38 Special +P rounds you were thinking about.

I do see they have some for 2" barrels.

Bill

[Ghost Tracker]

Sloman - My carry rigs for the SP101 are; IWB - Tucker "Heritage" (very covert & comfortable) & OWB - Uncle Mikes "Sidekick" Professional (ambi for possible left hip back-up gun carry, also excellent protection/retention for woods & trail use). The Sidekick is a fine general-use holster as long as your SP101 isn't a hammerless model & you READ THE DIRECTIONS to ADJUST the thumb-break properly. It only costs around $29 and I've been pleasantly surprised how well it performs. I usually don't go for "cost effective" holsters.

Leagonnaire - Those ARE the tuning directions I followed. Pay particular attention to the suggestions about the plastic bag disassembly tricks. They REALLY saved my bacon three (3!) times during the process. I must admit I didn't follow them EXACTLY to the letter. For example, #14 says just to twist the appropriately sized drill bit to remove burrs inside the plunger hole. I additionally polished the I/D of that hole until the plunger traveled through there VERY smoothly. As a longtime gun tinkerer I recognised that as a critical spot in the trigger assembly design. A little extra time & effort there is very well-rewarded upon completion.

Don't anyone be shy about your ability to reassemble the SP101. TAKE YOUR TIME, use a light touch, don't get mad or impatient (set it aside for a few minutes if you recognise tension developing), turn OFF the TV/cell phone/etc., tell everyone in the household that you're going to need 2-3 hours of uninterupted time. It's somewhat daunting to quietly, methodically take on a new, complex task but the results are SOOOOO rewarding when you ask your gun buddies to try dry-firing your revolver. They all say the same thing and ask the same question, "Wow! Who DID that?". Hehehe...ME!

[Porter_Rockwell]

Magsnubby---Just wondering which orange insert you used> Did you pop the pin out yourself or did you have someone else do it?

Thanks,

Porter.

[lawson]

Porter_Rockwell: It's not actually target grey, I just didn't have good lighting for the picture. The grips are from Hogue, the monogrip in Goncalo Alves.

[Porter_Rockwell]

I just hope those lovely grips don't hurt with full house loads! Ouch! Boy are they beautiful though!

Thanks for the reply.

Porter.

[lawson]

The grips are the exact same shape as the rubber Monogrip, and absorb recoil almost as well. .38 special has no felt recoil, and full house magnums are quite tolerable. I highly recommend these grips.

[Ichiro]

Michigunner,

The 110-grain .38 special +P JHP measures 1250fps/382 ft/lbs from a 2" test barrel, according to Corbon's website.

I've only shot the 125-grainers, but they were cream puffs in my SP. They measure 351 ft/lb, but from a 4" barrel.

I know that bullet energy is not the be-all and end-all of defensive cartridges, but if you want it, Corbon has it. And like I said, they're easy to shoot.

I load mine with the SB .38+P Gold Dots.

[Michigunner]

Thanks, Ichiro. The Corbon info is much appreciated.

I'll order Corbon and try it alongside the two Short Barrel offerings.

It's amazing how well the SP101 feels in a belt holster. There is virtually no printing.

Thanks again,

Bill

[magsnubby]

Porter-Rockwell,
I's a Millet sight. I had the 'smith install it when he did the action job. He didn't charge me to install it, just for the sight. It looks like it would be that hard to install one yourself.

[Michigunner]

Ichiro,

I noticed that Corbon made an error in describing the .38 Special +P 110 gr out of a 2" barrel.

In the main index the muzzle energy was listed as 382 ft/lbs, but when you click on the link the muzzle energy is actually 269 ft/lbs.

The part number is [SD38110/20].

Bill

[Gary A]

I "think" the Speer 135 .357 really is a good balance of power, weight, expansion, and terminal performance, but I can't prove it. It should give around 300 fpe from a 2.25 inch SP. If you are looking for around 350, I suggest trying the Remington Golden Saber which should give you somewhere around 1125 fps plus or minus which would be in the 350 fpe range. Almost any 110 grain .357 load should be somewhere between the two, although a tad lightweight maybe.

[coach22]

Here is the link to Corbon DPX
http://www.dakotaammo.net/products/corbon/dpx.htm

coach22

[Michigunner]

Excellent, Gary. Thank you.

The Golden Saber ballistic data is based on a 4" barrel, with 1220 ft/sec and 413 ft/lbs.

Your estimates seem right on when going down to 2 1/4 barrel.

I'll try both brands and see which is more tolerable.

Thanks again.

[Ichiro]

There's something seriously goofy going on with the Corbon website. When you click the part number for either .38 round, they show completely different numbers than they do on the main page.

If the one set of numbers are for a 4" and the others are for the 2", then I obviously need to retract my recommendation. Neither round is a powerful as I thought.

However, the Speer SB .357 round is still far below your preference for 350 ft/lbs. I think they measured it at 280-290 from a 2" barrel.

My experience with my SP-101 and a variety of ammo showed me that a great .38+P round is better for defensive purposes than any .357 round, for the simple reason that I can shoot two .38s in the time I can shoot one .357.

In fact, I found the "low recoil" of the .357 short-barrel round to be not so much lower than regular-pressure 158-grain rounds. Given the choice between a reduced-power .357 and a full-power .357 in this gun, I think I'd choose a full-power load.

In my 4" GP-100, I the reduced .357 loads are probably a good idea, because the increase in follow-up time is not very noticeable.

[bulbboy]

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f284/kevinmichaeldick/rugersp101.jpg

Love it!!

Federal Hydroshoks
Eagle Grips "Secret Service"
I carry it in a K & D Holsters "Laredo Defender"

[Bainx]

Mine is the 3" and I took some#400 wet/dry to the hammer and it will not catch on clothing any more although, since it is a hammer, there is the potential to catch a wad or object but, as far as the 'teeth' of the hammer, it is history.

A nice carry gun. I find myself carrying a revolver more and more and a semi less and less these days.

[Porter_Rockwell]

Just wondering if anyone is aware if Corbon has some FBI load testing? (Or any ammo other than LE testing that I could get my greedy hands on!) I have been able to garner some from Winchester, Speer and Hornady. I would like to compare.

I am particularly wondering how the CorBon 110 .357 has performed in a SP101. I know on Marshall's stopping power site, he had an impressive .68 for expansion, but an unreliable 11.5 penetration.

Anyone played with Bill Cosby and shot any jello with these rounds? :) The 110 .357 rounds from Winchester are flamethrowers, but very easy to handle in a SP101. Anyone aware of any Jello tests with these boys? The Winchester info I obtained had nothing listed for them.

God Bless,

Porter.

[tuckerdog1]

Lotta clubs popping up all of a sudden.Wonder how many I'm gonna be able to join?
Please ignore the scoped gun in the pic below. Don't have the SP101 in a solo shot yet.
Got my SP new in '92. Receipt shows I traded a 4" 686 no dash + $50 for the SP. Probably not the swiftest financial move, but I've never regretted buying the SP.

http://www.thehighroad.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=36159&d=1140887979

Tuckerdog1

[Porter_Rockwell]

Still wondering if anyone has some info on my aforementioned corbon question?

Anyone?

Porter.

[magsnubby]

I've decided to sell off a few of my safe queens. I have 5 snubby .357's, the SP101, S&W 66, Taurus 605, Taurus 606 and a Rossi 641. The SP101 is the keeper.

[Scotticus]

Whoopee Doopee! I'm going to be in the club. Just ordered a SP101 today (a 3" .357) from a local FFL guy and it may be in as soon as tomorrow. It's kind of like the 3 bears: I've got a S&W Mod. 19 in a 4" and a Taurus Mod. 85 in a 2". This will perfectly fill the gap. Peace of mind while hiking and traveling.

[ugaarguy]

I'm in. The other night I dropped by the Boise Cabelas to get HKS speed loaders for my S&W M66. Well, sitting the used counter was this pretty little 3" .38 Special SP101. It was only $260, and it looked like it needed a good home. So I adopted it.

54620

[Porter_Rockwell]

ugaarguy,

Nice to see that we have a new convert! You'll reap the reward for adoption children like these. They give you very little if any trouble and always do what you ask of them! :)

God Bless,

Porter.

[Unisaw]

It's nice to see that the gun came with the Pachmyr Compac grips. After years of using a Hogue Monogrip, I switched. The Compac grips are greatly underrated IMO.

[Scotticus]

Now I am confused. I will be looking for aftermarket grips for my SP101 and while Unisaw seems to like the Pachmyer compact, I read another review that says they prefer the Hogue monogrip. I realize there is some personal preference going on here, but are there other opinions that care to weigh in on which I might be happier with? For that matter , do I really need to change the factory grips? Thanks for any input.

[Quickdraw Limpsalot]

Count me in. 2.25" hammered version with Hogue monogrip on mine.

[Unisaw]

No need for confusion -- it's a very personal thing. Find out what fits your hand best and your intended usage of the gun. I liked the Hogues for range use and even for IWB carry, but they weren't practical (for me) for pocket carry. The Compacs also point more naturally for me but, again, it's a very personal thing.

[Scotticus]

Thanks. I think you have answered my question. CCW is not my primary use for this piece. This is more of a HD, in the vehicle, and kit gun for me. I think I will go with the Hogue monogrips.

[ugaarguy]

ugaarguy,

Nice to see that we have a new convert! You'll reap the reward for adoption children like these. They give you very little if any trouble and always do what you ask of them!

Well, now that I'm better rested I'll lay out the the rest of the story. I bought the revolver Tues night. I got home and opened the .pdf instruction manual from the Ruger website - http://www.ruger.com/Firearms/PDF/InstructionManuals/15.pdf. I proceeded to disassemble the revolver so I could remove and clean the cylinder, and clean the bbl with the cylinder out - I always clean and inspect any newly aquired gun.

I then went to reassmble the revolver. I got to reassembly step 2 (p. 20) and felt resistance. I stopped and backed off as advised in the instructions. Out fallls a little metal piece, followed by a spring with what looks like the back half of a plunger. A look at the SP-101 schematic on the Brownell's website confirmed that it was indeed a plunger, and the pawl plunger to be exact. Somehow as I was reinserting the trigger assembly onto the frame I hit the pawl, letting it cam forward enough for the plunger to protrude and then be hit and broken as the pawl cammed back down on it. The resistance I felt was minimal, surprising to me that it was enough to snap the plunger.

A call to Brownell's Wed morning confirmed that the pawl spring and plunger are indeed used in several location on the SP-101 as the schematic indicated. At under $2 each I ordered three springs and three plungers to keep some spares on hand. Wanting a minimal delay in getting the new piece up and running I ponied up for the overnight shipping. The parts arrived yesterday evening, just in time to pop them in and get this SP101 to the range for a few rounds.

So there's my goof that you guys can learn from and hopefully avoid a similar problem. But with the very low cost of the SP101's small springs & plungers you might consider picking up a few spares just in case. ;)

[ugaarguy]

OK, like I said earlier I'm a was an S&W guy first, so this raises a question. In S&W land the 3" K frame is highly sought after becuase it carries more easily than a 4", yet retains the full length ejector rod which the 2.5" guns lack because of physical limitations. My 3" .38 Special SP101 lacks a full length ejector rod, but there looks to be plenty of room under the bbl for one. So what's up with these SP101s and no full length ejector rods?

Here's a pic of my SP101 3" above my S&W M66 2.5". Note the length available under the SP's bbl.

54656

[TheotherMikeG]

May I join?

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o172/theothermikeg/IMG_0961.jpg

I know, I know, its a .38 special, not a .357.

But its a really GOOD .38 special! :D

[gp911]

2-1/4" DAO here. I absolutely love that little tank.

It's currently stoked with Silvertips, with a spare speedloader of Hornady 158 grainers as well as a speedloader of 125gr Corbons.


gp911

[Stainz]

Will someone adopt me into this group? I do have a LNIB SP101 I bought the first of the year... okay, it's a 4" .32, but still, it's an SP101. I ordered a Hogue rubber monogrip and lighter springs, among other things, from Brownell's. The earlier mentioned tuning steps were followed - the lighter return spring being most useful in dissassembly/reassembly. The results were great - really improved. Sorry, it aint no S&W - but, it's the best Ruger DA I've ever tried, much less owned. Mine is purely a fun plinker.

Sadly, the windage-only adjustable sights are real teasers - and the revolver simply whets the old appetite for another 4" - in .22LR. Fun little shooters.

Stainz

PS Now I want a 3" adj rear/HiViz front 60.

[norfdet893]

Does a SP-101 (SPNY) model get me in? It is only 38 special but from what I have read even the magnum carriers load down. I bought the SPNY because I wanted a SP101 and these were somewhat rare. I have the Eagle SS grips in Rosewood on it now and I also have a pair of SS grips in a very light wood. As for leather gear, the only thing I have is a Galco SOB and a IWB for a 3". I don't carry it much but it does shoot great.

[KELORGO]

IMG]http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u195/kelorgo/Fishingsnowschoolvines103.jpg[/IMG]

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u195/kelorgo/Fishingsnowschoolvines106.jpg

I hope the two links work to post photos of my SP101. I'm new to this computer stuff, but not to the SP101. This is my third and each has been great.

[KELORGO]

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u195/kelorgo/Fishingsnowschoolvines104.jpg

[brett30030]

2.25", desantis pocket and IWB holsters, corbon ammo, hogue grips.

It is my favorite handgun.:)

[kolya]

http://images.dr3vil.com//files3/29/Rugersp101.jpg

I'm in.

[Porter_Rockwell]

We will take all comers. Bring on the .22's and 9 mm if so desired. Although we are a .357 club (being the most common) I'll see if I an change the name on the thread.

Bring on all SP 101's!

God Bless,

Porter.

[Gideon]

Can any of you SP101 owners tell me if the Eagle Secret Service grips are smaller than the Badger custom grips? I've got another thread going but no one has responded and all the SP101 owners are posting here :D

I found the Badgers to be a bit too thick for my smaller hands, so if you've got experience with both I'd sure appreciate it!

Thanks
Gideon

[DaleCooper51]

I picked up an sp101 last weekend. Traded a S&W 66 for a never fired target gray one new in box. A friend of mine really wanted the 66 and I havent shot it in a while so I figured why not, I needed a new snubby. The trigger was rough, but seemed to smooth up a bit today after going to the range. I had a couple in the past that ended up sold or traded. Always liked the little guys and really enjoy shooting the 125 grain golden sabres out of it.

I'll post a pic after I clean it.

***Edit***

Oh yeah, I forgot to ask my question. Does anyone have any experience with the target gray finishes? How do they wear? Are the tough or will they wear like blue does from a holster?

[jdmb03]

I've got arthritis in the shooting hand, but hope to get through the Gold Dot .357 Short Barrel ammo without too much pain.

Does anybody have any suggestions for the next step up in muzzle energy on a 2 1/4 inch SP101? I would feel better with some premium ammo with about 350 ft/lbs or so.

Or should we just say that Gold Dot Short Barrel .357 is fully optimized with the correct balance between recoil and power?

Bill

I use Winchester 110gr .357's.

[Porter_Rockwell]

I own a shot gun in Target grey. It has two years of use. I might be leaning to the side of: it is a little like a blue finish. It has rubbed a bit. near the safety, but overall in very good shape. I also have a SP101 in TG. I have carried for several months with no rubbing or finish problems thus far.

If it is the same casting process as the stainless ranch mini 14, I have had that for years with no rubbing. I guess we'll have to wait and see.

Good luck and god bless,

Porter

[DaleCooper51]

Thanks Porter.

[bulltaco]

I got a SP101 2.25" 357 last month. I replaced the stock grips with Trausch grips on recommendation from someone on The High Road. I ordered on-line and mailed a money-order to the Chicago address and the order was shipped from Paris, France. I am very satisfied. These grips are the greatest thing out of France since champagne.

[IfYouOnlyKnew]

NIB SP101 3 1/16th" .38/.357. Is it possible or adviseble to use a spray type cleaner on the internals after removing the grips? I am not at all confident in my disassembly abilities beyond grip removal but would like to see if a spray cleaner and re-oil would suffice before I fire the gun for the first time and afterwards, too.

Also, using a bore light, I can see small rings which seem to be milled into the front part of each cylinder chamber. I have not seen this mentioned on any other SP 101 thread and just wondered if this was standard and what was the purpose of those rings?

This is my first handgun and I still need to pick up ear muffs, etc before I get to a range but I have enjoyed getting to know this revolver, dry firing it, and getting familiar with the owners manual, etc. Main use will be for HD, car/truck/boat, and a woods gun. Thanks.

[rogerjames]

IfYouOnlyKnew,
This is my first and only gun also. I've had no problem following the manual and taking it apart for cleaning. I don't know about spray cleaners because I haven't used them. I even took the trigger assembly completely apart and did a trigger job following written instructions and a Brownell's schematic. If your anxious to shoot before disassembly and cleaning, at least make sure the cylinder is clean and rotates freely when dry firing. Clearance is quite tight and after about 100 rounds at the range some brief wiping at the end of the cylinder is necessary for the cylinder to lock into place properly without sticking. My chambers have milled rings near the bullet end of the chamber but I'm an amateur and don't know what purpose they serve. She's a pleasure to shoot though, even with .357. She's in my night stand every night. Enjoy:D

[Michigunner]

jdmb03,

I am in the same situation with arthritis in the shooting hand.

The initial test will include the Gold Dot .357 Short Barrel ammo.

The following info was suggested to me by Gary A.

The next level test will be Golden Saber .357 with a predicted muzzle energy of 356 ft/lbs. Some consider that round to be a medium load.

Speed loss was presumed to be 50 ft/s for each inch of barrel length reduction.

The published Golden Saber data was for a 4 inch barrel, the speed was 1220 ft/s, and bullet weight was 125 grains.

I calculated 356 ft/lbs by using the formula M x V x V, then divided the result by 450400.

I don't yet know if the Golden Saber will expand as desired.

Bill

[gggman]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v220/gggman/Guns/DSC00493.jpg
I carry it every day. Pachmaer grips, Fist pancake holster, and a Dillon gun belt.

[Scotticus]

Wow! What a pleasure to shoot. Went with the Hogue monogrip on my new 3" .357. I shot everything I could find around here: WW 130gr .38, 158gr .38, 125gr +p, Corbon 125gr +p, WW 110gr .357, 158gr JHP .357, and a couple of 180gr cast hunting cartridges and 180gr JHP. The 180-grainers were the only thing that wasn't too enjoyable.

Sort of looking for a more visible front sight, though. Sounds like that Millet might be the ticket. Any other reasonably priced hi-vis sights out there?

[jdmb03]

Sort of looking for a more visible front sight, though. Sounds like that Millet might be the ticket. Any other reasonably priced hi-vis sights out there?

Trijicon and XS make a front night sight for the 101.

[spyderdude]

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b387/spyderdude18/RugerSP101357Mag.jpg

Its been a great shooter, and a great CCW piece!

[Pk14]

Greetings all -

I spent a hour breaking in my Kimber .22 conversion kit and decided to finish up with my Gemini Customs 3" .357. The night sight is regulated for 7 yds / with 158 grainers while the CT grips laser is set up for 135 gr Speer SBGD.

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q43/Pk14_photos/SP101.jpg

I tried a box of American Eagle (Federal) 158gr JSP .357s. Ouch. I got through 25 rounds and called it a day. The combination of the CT grips, 4-port comp, and 158gr JSPs demonstrated that is not the HD / SD combo for me! Happily, 145gr Silvertips and 135gr SBGD are no problem. Next time I want to hurt my hand and I can't find a hammer close by, I'll pull out the remaining 25 158gr JSPs...

Great gun, however, if that 158gr load was the only show in town, I'd have to find some different grips (the CTs are the original hard plastic grips). The SP-101 will certainly handle the rounds. I could not even begin to imagine the pain that would occur in a S&W 340PD with that load...

Pk

[chorlton]

I'll be picking up my second - I mean my wife's first - Sp101 in a couple of weeks :) A 2" to go with the 3" :)

[Cousin Mike]

Here's my Target Grey 2 ¼” SP101 (DA/SA .357 Magnum), still wearing the original grips. I’d been looking for a J-frame to carry for a while, but lately I’d become infatuated with the SP101, so when I saw this at my local shop I didn’t hesitate to pick it up. CCW ammo = Federal 130gr. Hydra-Shok JHP’s. I practice with them, and Remington 125gr. JSP’s…

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/5263/p1210233gq0.jpg

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/7633/printuh0.jpg

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/7093/cylinderhm5.jpg

I can’t find enough good things to say about this revolver… I should have bought one years ago.

[CZF]

Nice pics and info here. I ordered a 2 inch SP-101 in .357 last spring.

Tooks almost two weeks to arrive at my Dealer's, and when I got it home..noticed that it was a 38 Special +P!

The action was rough and gritty, and the gun seemed quite heavy.

Thinking that I could buy a lighter gun in .357, I quickly sold the unfired SP
at a significant loss.

Now after handling the Smith .357 J fames. I find that they pinch my trigger finger when dry firing them. Rossi and Taurus revolvers are not in the picture, so that leaves me at the .357 Ruger Sp-101 doorstep.

[olywa]

I've had a 2" SP101 w/hammer for a while now and I thoroughly enjoy it. But I just bought a 3" SP101 and I think I've found perfection in a light revolver. I've owned a lot of 357s over the years and this one has the best balance of features and functionality I've yet found for my uses. If I had to give up all my 357s but one, the 3" SP101 would be the one I'd keep. I have a Silver Dollar Pancake on the way from Simply Rugged. That'l be one sweet combo.

[SAWBONES]

IMNSHO, there's no better compact CCW revolver than the Ruger SP101.
I have three of them, two with 2.25" barrels, one with the 3.1" barrel. The shorter barrel versions are ideal for carry in the "appendix" position.

They "point" right on target, and have the best, most highly-visible sights of any fixed-sight compact revolver available today, so are ideal for both sighted and "point" shooting. They point best and are most comfortable plus most readily concealable with the stock rubber grips IME. YMMV, etc.

They are most likely to shoot closest to POA with heavy 158gr .357 Magnum loads, IME.

[dbernie5]

I just picked up a new SP101 2 1/4 inch barrel .357 last night. It feels like it fits well, I haven't fired it yet, maybe this weekend. :D

[clipse]

My polished .357 SP101. :)

http://www.alwayssafe.org/folder/website/sp101/sp101-6.JPG

http://www.alwayssafe.org/folder/website/sp101/smartcarry3.JPG

And for really deep cover. :D
http://www.alwayssafe.org/folder/website/sp101/forthekids2.jpg

[19-3Ben]

dbernie5- welcome to the club!!! You made a great choice last night!

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello. Count me in as a strong fan of the SP101.

Here's why:

http://www.hipowersandhandguns.com/Ruger%20SP101%20Report.htm

Best.

[461]

I had a 2.25" .357 for a few years and sold it, currently I've got a 3" .32mag and a 2.25" Gemini Customs 9mm so I'm a club member indeed. Next project is a 3" .357 probably sent to Gemini and then a hard chrome or some industrial finish as a super kit gun.

[Risasi]

Another big time SP101 fan here.

I have a 3" SA/DA, wolf spring kit, green hi-viz front sight, standard grips. However this will change. I've found the rubber grips grab too much at clothing and tends to print. This is mainly used for open and concealed carry in urban areas where I want to remain low profile.

I am thinking about changing the front sight to a tritium white dot, and bob the hammer, and would also like to do a melt job sometime.

I carry in a Don Hume IWB rig. However I do belief I will be changing this soon. I find it rides just a bit too high and tends to poke me in the kidney too much. I'll likely start to carry a second as a BUG too.

[bigmike45]

They are great little shooters. I have two...or I should say my wife now has one and I have one. Hers is the 2 1/16" DAO.

Mine a 3 1/16" either carried OWB in a Don Hume
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f43/mike_seale/DonHumeHolster.jpg

or IWB in a Tucker Heritage
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f43/mike_seale/Tucker2.jpg

[icecorps]

Hey, 101 lovers...

I just got some Eagle Secret Service grips for mine. Anyone have these? They block my HKS speedloaders. Anyone have a similar experience?

Pictures forthcoming.

[texas bulldog]

i plan to pick up one of these in a couple weeks at the next austin gun show. it'll be my primary CCW, and i'm looking forward to joining the club. i'm wondering if you kind SP101 owners can speak on the relative merits of the the 2.25" versus the 3". as a small guy who wears relatively close-fitting clothes, i feel like the 2.25" will be easier to conceal, and would therefore get carried more consistently. but the improved shooting performance of the 3" definitely piques my interest. i plan to carry mostly OWB, occasionally IWB. not a big fan of pocket carry...my pockets have too many things in them as it is.


also...could someone tell me where to find those pearl panel inserts i saw on the picture thread? those sure are sharp.

thanks, y'all.

[dbernie5]

I finally had some time to spend with my SP101 last weekend. I love this revolver!! It shoots well. I need some practice with it but, so far I'm impressed. :D

[MCgunner]

Just bought this little begger for $250, practically new. :D

http://imageigloo.com/images/9786PICT0175.JPG

It's a heavy little fart, almost as heavy as my 3" Taurus 66 which shoots a little easier and more accurately. It's a little easier to carry, though, not as much bulge from the grip. I probably didn't need it, but my son-in-law needed cash and I told him I'd sell it back to him. He's on a second tour of Iraq, though, so I have it for at least a year I reckon. It's an good shootin' little gun with 140 grain loads, but my 180s HURT in this little thing! I won't shoot those loads out of my Tauri medium frame guns, just my Blackhawk and this tough little SP. They make 662 ft lbs, just over 1300 ft/sec out of that little barrel.:what: Yeah, they're hot and I won't shoot anymore unless it's at a hog when I'm checkin' the hog trap. :D I put the first three of those things off a rest into 2" at 25 yards, though, pretty amazing, then flinched the last two shots. :banghead: The one thing I really like about it is that it shoots my .38 wadcutter, my 140 carry load, a 158 grain SWC practice load in .357, and the 180 grain load all to point of aim. How often does THAT happen!?:what: That fact right there makes me wanna keep it. Be a pretty danged good back pack gun with the heavy load in black bear country, too, though I think I prefer my 4" guns for that.

Here it is compared to my Taurus 66.

http://imageigloo.com/images/568PICT0174.JPG

On the subject of barrel length, I'd have bought a 3 1/16 inch, or whatever it is, if I was buying new. I prefer the longer barrel for better ballistics and extra sight radius. The gun is an IWB anyway, not a pocket gun, and a 3" barrel carries well for me IWB. However, that said, I'm getting 550 ft lbs from a 140 grain Speer in front of 17 grains of 2400, pretty danged good, and it shoots 3" or so at 25 yards from a rest which is plenty good 'nuf for self defense. You don't lose as much as I'd reckoned with that less than one inch of barrel, so if concealment is a concern to you because of body size or build or something, don't hesitate to get the shorter barrel length. I always go longer, though, if I can make it work for me. I just shoot better with more sight radius, but it ain't like I'm ineffective with the snubbies. :D

[rono]

Found a real nice SP101 2.25" Bobbed hammer DAO last week at a local dealer. Used but not even a scratch. Still has the original box.. Well the temptation was too much. Stopped in today and I'm picking it up tomorrow. Guess it's time to join the club. :D Always could use another carry gun.....

Ron-O

[ghostdoc]

Yep! I have a 2 1/4" Gemini Job. I had Pachmyer grips but changed to the Trausch. Now I like 2 things French, Fred Perrin's knives and the Trausch grips. Thay fill my hands and still conceal quite well. SP101s rock! Doc

[MCgunner]

I just ordered a Hogue monogrip for mine. With the stock grip, the friggin' trigger guard batters my middle finger at the knuckle, not comfortable. Also, I put this in the gunsmithing forum, but maybe I'll get an answer here. I ordered a Wilson reduced power spring kit, comes with a 10 and 12 lb main spring. Anyone have any experience with these springs? Will they 10 lb be reliable? Just wondering. I plant to test, of course.

[MCgunner]

also...could someone tell me where to find those pearl panel inserts i saw on the picture thread? those sure are sharp.

thanks, y'all.

Pearlite, less expensive, more durable than real mother of pearl and looks great. http://www.ajaxgrips.com

[Rustynuts]

I put a Hogue monogrip and a red Hi-Viz front sight on mine. Makes a nice setup! Just don't forget to switch over to a brass punch when installing like I did. One slip and I have a small half-moon dent near my sight pin!

[tubeshooter]

Count me in; posting in the unofficial "club" thread. :cool:


Mine is a 3" .357, wears a Hogue Monogrip. No changes past that. I have always been very pleased since Day 1. Everyone has already touched on the positives, not much more I could add. Except maybe that I'd love to get lucky one day and find one in .22LR.

[psychophipps]

I'm looking at picking up a SP101 2-1/4" in .357 magnum here fairly soon and I have a couple of questions. Does keeping your finger on the frame above the trigger (I'm used to semi-autos) block the laser too badly? How does the CT grip handle recoil compared to stock?

[Serpico]

"Pearlite, less expensive, more durable than real mother of pearl and looks great. http://www.ajaxgrips.com"



The Ajax black pearlite looks pretty cool and not too pricey....I like the buffalo horn too but 90 bucks for inserts is a bit much...

[MCgunner]

Bought Sanbar Stag grips from Ajax for my .45 Colt blackhawk about a dozen years ago for 70 bucks and thought it was high. Now they're up around 250. Wow! I got pearlite on a little Rossi .38 and it looks pretty cool.

[texas bulldog]

thanks, MC.

i was looking into lett until i found out they went out of business. in addition to the pearlite, they had some pretty nice exotic wood options that i haven't been able to find anywhere else. oh well, i still really like the pearlite, and the buffalo horn is sweet too if i ever feeling like dropping more money than is really reasonable for grip inserts.

[DawgFvr]

ghostdoc: I like your weapon. I have a 642 for pocket carry and a Taurus PT 145 for OWB carry. Recently, I have handled the SP101 and have come under the spell. I have to have one of these...I think it might become my primary carry. I refer to your comment on the gemmini gunsmithing. I am thinking of just purchasing the 3 inch barrel (still $419) from them and getting one of their packages. Since this is going to be a primary carry, I will not get the porting. Also...I will ask them to leave on the Ruger grips...cuz I also want Trausch if I am going to fire .357 mag. I could care less how fancy the wood grips are...I want pure function. BTW, did you get the moon clips in your gemmini purchase? Also, a question to all SP101 owners: What .357 mag do you load? I realize that .357 mag is pretty stout even with this all steel J frame version. Hell, my first revolver many years ago was the Speed Six...I thought .357 was pretty stout through that. Nevertheless, I want to carry a mag round in this little jewel and want your feedback. I was thinking the 125 gr. Corbon DPX copper tops. Would love to hear from your experience on this subject. Thanx in advance.

[Im283]

Got my SP101 3.1" barrel .357 Mag used a few weeks ago from a gun shop in Johnson City. It came with the Hogue monogrip, and it feels like it was custom made for my hand.

I have nothing to compare it with as it is the first high caliber/short barrel revolver I have shot. Many people in this thread have mentioned trigger jobs and that sort of thing. I am not sure obviously but I believe mine has had that done to it. The trigger is very smooth even shooting DA. Shooting SA you can just about breathe on it and it will fire.

It took some getting used to but now the SA action does not take me by suprise. The first time out shooting it I may well have shot myself in the leg if not for the 4 rules of gun safety. I know I accidently shot it a few times while sighting. I have learned quick since then though and now am pretty confident in how much pressure it takes for the hammer to drop. It definetly took me by suprise a few times on the first box of ammo.

Of the handguns I own it is the only one I would not entertain any offer on.

[kashton]

I am looking for a pocket carry gun and love revolvers so I'm sure this is a great place to ask some very knowledgeable people. Is it easy to conceal the SP101 in your pocket or is it too big/heavy?

Also, this may be a silly question but, whats the difference between spur & spurless

[rdaines]

As I said on the other thread, the SP-101 can easily be a pocket carry gun because of it's shape. It's not a lightweight but it also won't beat you up with recoil especially with .38 Special loads. I don't find the hammer hanging up when used in a pocket draw. A spurless is a way around that. I like the option of having single action fire as well as DA so I went with the hammer.

[Quoheleth]

Also, this may be a silly question but, whats the difference between spur & spurless

Spur = hammer that protrudes from the rear of the firearm, enabling you to cock it easily for SA shots.

Spurless = hammer does not protrude from the rear of the firearm. I believe you can start the hammer back with a pull of the trigger, CAREFULLY grab it with the thumb and cock manually, but not how it is designed.

Spurless theoretically enables a smoother draw from a pocket; nothing to snag the pocket.

Q

[Gary A]

Actually, the factory spurless SP101s cannot be cocked and it would be a very dangerous practice to try to cock one by starting the hammer back if the gun were loaded. I have seen SPs where someone had milled off the spur and those could be cocked in that less than safe way, but the factory versions do not have a cocking notch and are strictly double-action only. If you plan to check it out for yourself on a spurless SP, please make sure it is not loaded because it will not cock if it is factory.

[Quoheleth]

Thanks for the correction, Gary A.

I stand corrected :)

Q

[eldon519]

I'd also really be interested to know, particularly from you owners with both the 2.25" and the 3", which you prefer?

I plan to get one soon, intended use would be CCW (it would be my first) and field carry. I'm a very big framed but not fat guy if that matters.

[chris in va]

I just bought my 3" recently and being my first revolver I'm frankly mesmerized watching how the thing works (unloaded of course).

I find it gets carried quite a bit. The longer barrel IMO doesn't really get in the way if you use an open ended holster...it'll just protrude an inch or so. Personally I enjoy having that extra sight radius at the range.

[Rexster]

In reference to the above post, in which it was not known if the SP101 had a trigger job, most of them I have handled recently have had wonderfully smooth triggers right out of the factory box. I have two that were customized by Jack Weigand, when he was still 'smithing, and they put some 'smithed S&W revolvers to shame. When I recently bought a new SP101, it was JUST ABOUT AS SMOOTH, though of course the factory springs made the pull heavier than the customized triggers. A GP100 I bought new in late 2004 also came with a very sweet trigger, and the Alaskans and the one new 4" Redhawk I have handled were also equipped with sweet factory trigger pulls. Ruger has been doing better on trigger actions lately, IMO.

[MCgunner]

I have the 2.2" and if my son-in-law wants it back when he gets back from Iraq, I intend to get a 3.1" version. The 3" barrel conceals just as easily IWB and is easier to shoot well with the longer sight radius and the extra barrel will give you a little more velocity with magnums. The gun just handles better with the 3" IMHO. I gave my son-in-law $250 for the one I have now. He needed money, it's his favorite gun, so I told him he could buy it back. He got called up to Iraq, so I know I have it for a year anyway. LOL If he wants it back, I'll put a couple hundred with it and go get a 3" version which is what I'd prefer.

The gun is too heavy anyway for pocket carry IMHO and I have a nice little Kel Tec P11 and Taurus M85UL for the pocket anyway. The SP101 carries very light on the hip and is an all day gun IWB and the 3" barrel won't change that a bit, just make it a little easier for me to shoot well and give me a little more bite on the business end, both pluses.

[MCgunner]

Just got my Hogue Monogrip in and installed on the gun. MAJOR BIG TIME IMPROVEMENT! The area behind the trigger guard is filled in and there's an extra spot for the pinky while retaining a nice, concealable round butt shape. LOVE THIS GRIP! Now, I have to take it to the range, well, if the rain will ever let up and I could get some time from my work. I'll be trying it out soon, though, but I already know I like it. It's even better feel than the Hogues I have on K frame guns. That might be due to the fact that the Ruger grip design allows more freedom for the grip shape, big plus in Ruger DA guns IMHO. I love the round butt shape of this grip which my Taurus 66 and my Smith M10 don't allow with their square butt frames.

B4

http://imageigloo.com/images/9786PICT0175.JPG

After

http://imageigloo.com/images/698PICT0177.JPG

[Quoheleth]

Found a LNIB 3" .357 Mag SP101 for $350 on-line; I got him down to $315 (it basically covered the shipping when it was all said and done). It'll be here in a few days. From the pics, it has hardly been used - or, it was INCREDIBLY cared for. Comes with a speed-loader, as a bonus!

Whatcha think...did I do OK on the deal?

Q

[MCgunner]

Sounds good to me. I priced a 3" yesterday at a gun shop in a nearby town (Victoria), $485. That seems kinda steep, but about $420 for a new one wouldn't be bad. So, I think you done good.

[slimslam]

What does everyone recommend for concealed summer carry for the SP101 (hammerless)? I have a DeSantis speed scabbard for winter carry (great under dark sweatshirt, sweaters, etc.) Thanks...

[jdmb03]

FIST kydex holsters are nice.
http://www.fist-inc.com/holsters/Default.htm

[MCgunner]

Summer Special from Sparks is good and comfy. Actually, any IWB from the better outfits like Sparks or Rosen or DeSantis or etc will work fine under a long T shirt. Actually, I have a home built I use for the little revolvers that works for me, but I really like Sparks' Summer Special for my P90 and I'm sure it'd work for about anything and it's 70 bucks, which is cheaper than most of the quality rigs you'll see. There's a good wait on anything from Sparks or any of the better custom holster makers, though. IMHO, their stuff is worth the wait compared to the off the shelf stuff out there.

[Rustynuts]

Shot some Double Tap out of my 101 today. Man that stuff KICKS! :what:

[twoblink]

I've got arthritis in the shooting hand, but hope to get through the Gold Dot .357 Short Barrel ammo without too much pain.

I average 2 keyboards destroyed a year... as someone who types more than 12 million keystrokes a year, as a programmer and a violinist, I think looked up "arthritis" in the dictionary and saw a pic of my hands...

I went to the doctor, and if you've ever watched Grey's Anatomy, then you know all they know is how to "cut cut cut".. So they said I would need surgery and I would never play the violin nor be a computer programmer ever again..

(6 years later..)

my bones are smooth as silk, my violin playing still sucks, and I average a bit less, about 8 million keystrokes a year, but still substantial.

And all it cost me was about $60..

So if you are willing to stick to it, and give it a try, $60 bet, here's the recipe for anti-arthritis that I used, given to me by my friend, who is a holistic doctor..


1 Glass of Orange Juice (preferably fresh squeezed, if not, at least 100% juice and not from concentrate)
1 packet of Knox Gelatin

Twice a day, dump one packet of knox gelatin into 1 glass of OJ. stir stir stir, drink.

http://www.amazon.com/Original-Gelatin-Unflavored-1-Ounce-Boxes/dp/B000E1BLT4

A box like this is about $60 and has 48 packets, which is a 24 day supply @ 2x a day.

Your hair, teeth, nails, will feel MUCH better. Our bodies can't produce soft tissue fast enough to replace what we've worn out. Most Americans don't have soft cartilage based items as part of their meals such as chicken feet, pig's foot, beef tendon, or sea kelp as part of their regular diet. So, Knox is then the way to go.. Your body will take the predigested soft cartilage (knox) and just absorb it and use it; you skip the production cycle. After about 10 days, you'll notice it in your hair, and nails especially.

Why OJ and does it have to be OJ? Not really, but knox has a slight taste if you have a good tongue, the OJ masks the taste. Also, OJ is generally high in calcium and vitamin C, and being a citric acid, will be acidic in your mouth, but will be alkaline in your small intestine.

For me, my fingers and hands, definitely worth 2 OJ's and some knox..

If you try it and it works out well for you, PM me. Best of luck.

[twoblink]

Just got my Hogue Monogrip in and installed on the gun. MAJOR BIG TIME IMPROVEMENT! The area behind the trigger guard is filled in and there's an extra spot for the pinky while retaining a nice, concealable round butt shape. LOVE THIS GRIP! Now, I have to take it to the range, well, if the rain will ever let up and I could get some time from my work. I'll be trying it out soon, though, but I already know I like it. It's even better feel than the Hogues I have on K frame guns. That might be due to the fact that the Ruger grip design allows more freedom for the grip shape, big plus in Ruger DA guns IMHO. I love the round butt shape of this grip which my Taurus 66 and my Smith M10 don't allow with their square butt frames.

For me, the grip reduced recoil (felt recoil) by about 50%..

BUT..

be careful if you are going to CCW with that grip, as the hogue is a shirt snagger.. comfortable shooter, but shirt snagger, and that might play a part in the consideration if this is going to end up being a ccw piece..

[spyderdude]

I've had my little Ruger SP101 357 2.25" for about 7 months now. I think it's the longest time I've kept any handgun I've owned so far, trying to find the perfect carry gun for me. It's a great shooter, and feels nice even when shooting full power loads through it. It doesn't get carried much since I've grown attached to my Glock 19. It sits quietly in the safe, waiting for the next range trip.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b387/spyderdude18/RugerSP101357Mag.jpg

[MCgunner]

be careful if you are going to CCW with that grip, as the hogue is a shirt snagger.. comfortable shooter, but shirt snagger, and that might play a part in the consideration if this is going to end up being a ccw piece..

Carried it all day yesterday with no problems. I carry it about 4 oclock under a T and it wasn't bad. I carry a M66 3" taurus with a bigger Hogue on it, too, without a lot of difficulty. I'm happy with it. Same grip is available in any number of woods that wouldn't grab fabric as bad, but they're 80 bucks or so and I really like the feel of the rubber when shooting.

[45Guy]

my new-to-me SP101. WOW!! Trigger pull is nice, looks great with the bobbed hammer, and feels rugged. Can't wait to shoot it! Dang weather sucks here though. It's snowing now. ugh

[flounder22]

I have the 3in. 357 SP-101. Only had it a few weeks and have not had the chance to go to the pistol range yet. Got some Hogue Monogrips coming. right now it`s loaded with Rem. 125 Gr. brass JHP Golden Saber. :)

[road_king]

SP101 3" .357 - sweetest shooting little gun ever. When I sold my gun collection I gave it to my son - big mistake, he won't give it back!

[Infidel Cowboy]

Can I join the club? Shot my new 2 1/4 sp-101 today. WOW!:D I'm used to a full sized USP and thought I'd have some real getting used to this "tiny" cannon. It points right on target and stays there. It definitely fits better than my larger pistol - enough for me to realize that the misses are mine, not the gun's:banghead:. My accuracy was better with the sp-101 than my USP I've been shooting for a couple years. Granted the 158 grain American Eagle? JSPs were like slamming my hand in a car door, but they stayed COM or better at 7 - 15 yards. After 45 of those at the end of 200 38 specials, I was ready to go lick my wounds (trigger guard is a bit sharp:cuss:). Gotta try the action job at the beginning of this thread.

The other 5 I got to set free from another range patron's new to him .357 Puma? lever carbine. I think I need to go fishin for Marlin:D.

This little tank rocks! You guys helped me decide on it - thank you all.

IC

[mrghostwalker]

I carry a Sig Sauer 40 S&W on duty-- but off duty I carry a Ruger SP101. You'd be surprised at how many Law Enforcement Officers have them.

Has anyone done a ballistics test yet? I'd like to see what the various .357 rounds do out of a 2 1/4 inch barrel?

[dadof3]

Same here I carry a P229R and a G27 on duty, but off duty I'm all about my 2 1/4 SP101.

[Mr. D]

Hi!

I am about to get an SP101 w/3" barrel for concealed carry. Question: I'm having trouble finding moon clips for the SP101 in .357. I can find them for 9mm, but not .357/.38. Any suggestions?

~Dale

[Gary A]

Question: I'm having trouble finding moon clips for the SP101 in .357. I can find them for 9mm, but not .357/.38.

The .38/357 SP101 does not use moon clips unless you are buying one that has been modified for such use (and I'm not aware of anyone who makes SP101 moon clips in .38/.357). Speed strips or any of various speed loaders are what you need to carry reloads for the SP101.

[Mr. D]

Yeah, I suspected as much. Thanks!

[XDShooter07]

can you get smaller grips for these for CCW such as the houge bantams or does the frame shape prevent that?

[Jeeping]

Just got mine last week and absolutely love it

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s70/JeePing03/S6301536.jpg

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s70/JeePing03/S6301534.jpg

[FXWG]

Here's mine with his older brother...
http://i274.photobucket.com/albums/jj270/bress1340/DSC00623a.jpg

[tblt]

I have a GP100 but looking to buy a hamerless SP101 to replace my Taurus mod. 85

[Jeeping]

Shot some Double Tap out of my 101 today. Man that stuff KICKS!

They are not that bad :evil:

[Gary A]

can you get smaller grips for these for CCW such as the houge bantams or does the frame shape prevent that?
I know there are aftermarket wooden grips that are more CCW conducive in their shape from Eagle Grips and Badger Grips and maybe others. Not sure they are smaller, really but more round-butted. Uncle Mike's/Butler Creek used to make a rubber version of Spegel Grips that I really like but they have been discontinued for some time. Again, maybe not much smaller but much more rounded. Hard to come by, though. I always hope they'll start production again.

[Dr. Snubnose]

Oh I'll join this club!! I carry daily two Sp101s One DAO and the other S/A-D/A, I own about 40 handguns but my carry choice is always the Sp101s...145 grain Winchester Silvertips loaded in each. Both sit in Alessi IWB Talon Holsters-Can't say enough about the Sp101s ( I know I'm preaching to the choir) I use the standard grips I find them very recoil absorbant...50,000 hot load thru each of these guns no problems...I've been carrying them for over 13 years...I just love these guns....Doc:D

[Dr. Snubnose]

Double post delete

[mrghostwalker]

Doc-
You carry TWO snubbies at the same time?
Do you live in a bad part of town or is it because your wife is mad at you?

[Hunter0924]

I have one and I liked it so good I talked my mom and another friend into one as well.
From the three there has been no trouble from any.
I really like the SP 101 and all Ruger revolvers.

[Ben Shepherd]

I'm in. Two sp101's here. One DAO, one DA. Use houge mono-grips on both. One is over 70,000 rounds, and on its third set of grips. The other one is getting a good start.

[Katana8869]

Gave mine a new look. Houge wood grips....
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f201/katana8869/013.jpg

[45Guy]

You carry TWO snubbies at the same time?
Do you live in a bad part of town or is it because your wife is mad at you?

Ever tried reloading a snubby fast? It's much quicker to transition to a second firearm.

I just put 150 rounds of .38 Special through my SP101 today at the range, man was that fun!! I have CT grips on it now, and they help a lot with the recoil.

I find my SP101 to be the gun next to my bed every night, not my XD. It's soo much more fun to shoot, and I like the fact it's just so danged tough and reliable.

I can't sing enough praises of this revolver, and I plan on adding a GP-100 to the group within the next few months.

[Dr. Snubnose]

mr ghostwalker: Only one thing better than carrying one Sp101 and that's carrying two;)...Its the fastest reload I know!!!!....Doc:D

[2ndamd]

+1!

I have carried two quite comfortably for years.
DA/SA on the strong side and DAO in the pocket (jeans, of course)

I still need to get the 3 1/16" version. I think these SP101s are great. I just bought a 642 because it had no IL. Thinking of selling it to get another SP101. I only have 3 of them :) and I need that 3" version.

[icecorps]

Anyone blacken their stainless SP-101?

[outerlimit]

I had a 3" SP-101 in .357. It had a nice build so it could handle the hot 158gr. loads just fine. I wasn't that accurate with it though. I'm not sure whether it was me or the gun. I think it was me.

Anyways, the problem I had with it was that it was too heavy and just a tad too large to CCW any more effectively than a full sized gun, so why not just have a full sized gun?

It's kind of the same dilemma I have with compact sized autos. They don't fill any niche for me.

[lochridge]

icecorps,
i have a black-t sp 101. it looks and shoots fantastic. i do not have pictures yet, but maybe i can work on that this week.

[mrghostwalker]

Ha-Ha!
Sorry- guys, I was just picturing someone would be carrying two snubbies gunfighter style/western holster. "look out guys, Snubbie Bart is in town!"

But I agree- carrying two makes sense although not always practical. I do know (from my training) that a speed loader in the hands of a well trained Cop is a very quick load. I used to be able to reload a revolver in the same time that it now takes me to re-load my Sig Sauer.

[Rugerlvr]

So I just entered the club a week ago or so. I bought a 2.25" .357 at Cabela's and used a $100 gift card on their $450 sale price. $350 for the new gun isn't too bad. :)

I haven't gotten to the range to shoot it yet. I shoot a 642 with +P rounds, and I'm interested to see how much different the kick is than that.

[lochridge]

http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq37/adamllewis/sp101-2.jpg

[Bodycamp13]

Lochridge-

What is the finish on that gun? Gotta have-it!

Great looking piece.

Thanks!

[abuelo]

I am working on joining the 357 club if I can find a good used one [money is tight]. Currently only have a 9mm with a 3 inch barrel that shoots like a dream when my wife lets me shoot it.

[lochridge]

it is a black-t finish

walter birdsong did it for me. he did a fantastic job inside and out.

[Bodycamp13]

Thank you for the info!

[Landric]

Well, I just made arrangements to join the SP101 club. I have owned A LOT of guns over the years, but one I have never had (and always meant to) was a SP101. I opted for the 2 1/4 inch .357 Mag bobbed hammer DAO. NIB, out the door, for $375. I pick it up on Friday.

What I really wanted was a DAO 3" gun, but that is not an option from the factory. So, there might be a 3" version in my future and some lock-work switching if that is feasible. We will see how I like the 2 1/4".

I'm thinking I'll probably qualify with the SP101 as an off-duty gun with the PD (provided they let me, I generally get a lot of groans when I pull out my bag of guns on qualification day). I see the SP as more of a belt gun, but I'll be like DR Snubnose, carrying two revolvers, when I opt for the SP as my primary. SP in a belt or IWB holster, S&W 37-2 DAO in my pocket as a backup. I figure I'll carry the SP loaded with magnums and any spare ammo will be .38 Special +P so I can reload either revolver with it.

[Haywood]

I have a 2" SP DAO. I took a dremel to the Trigger thinned it a bit and rounded the edges. I like the grips a lot.

[caddy527]

Greetings all,
Just joined. Thanks for all the great info. I just got a 3" 357 today. It's my first handgun and the decision wasn't easy. I read a few articles, did a search and ended up here. You all are a great source of useful info. Thanks again. I can't wait to get to the range.

[2ndamd]

Congrats on the new SP101.
I think you're going to like it.
Welcome to THR!

[Theanalogman]

Just kidding!
After thinking about a SP101 and reading all 7 pages of this thread, I went and purchased one this afternoon!! It's all your fault, ya know. :D
This thing is sweet to dry fire, I'm stunned on how many folks complain about the trigger. This is rather smooth right out of the box, IMO. My S&W 640 DAO trigger was horrible!
I'll post pics once I figure out how. So now that I'm a member of the club, where do I get the patches, logos, hats? I ain't gonna ask for any stinkin' badges.

[AdamSean]

Ok, my turn. I purchased the SP101 .357 magnum 2 1/4" by chance. I was looking for something else, but had one on my wishlist so I bought it. From the very beginning, I really liked it. I took it to the range to put it through its paces. It worked great. The only thing I didn't like was the heavy trigger. So I disassembled it, polished the internal parts and replaced the factory springs with Wilson combat reduced power springs. WOW! It is smooth as silk now. I can keep the DA shots on target better now.

I ordered me a High Noon Bare Asset IWB holster. It works great. Stays in place wonderfully. I use Winchester Silvertips 145gr HPs.

I have quickly fallen in love with this gun. It is my all time favorite. The only thing I want for it now is a Crimson Trace LG-111 grip for it.

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a277/zg8/SANY0039.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a277/zg8/SANY0025.jpg

[Dr.Rob]

Never knew there were so many attractive wood grips for this handy lil revolver! Great pics and a fun thread.

[bigwhiteyj]

Ok, I'm in. I've had pics up in other threads but here she is. These SP's just feel so right in the hand.

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s266/legacygt_97/sp101001.jpg

[politicaldookie]

Right now I have the 3" with both wood & rubbers and a 2 1/4 factory CT. no changes planned at the moment.

[Nairbedaw]

Hi everybody. Im a new member and just purchased my first handgun, although its not my first gun ever. The one I purchased is a SP101 3 inch chambered in .357. It is completley stock as I just got it today. I have no plans to modify it yet. Im very pleased with the fit and finish of this gun and plan to hang on to it for a very long time to come. I also have a Mossberg 500A 12 gauge, but this Ruger is my new baby. Litterally! The date on it is 06/20/2009, less than 3 weeks old. I just cant seem to put it down. Sorry forgot to add that my SP101 is the hammered version.

[Smith44]

Nairbedaw,

I think you mean figuratively :)

Welcome to the club. I am picking up my custom ordered sp101 on Friday. I already measured the clyinder gap at the shop. Came in a .003. I was pleasantly surprised at the fit and finish. Very high quality. I am taking it out to the desert to shoot a week after I pick it up and I can't wait.

[TUBBY1]

Put crimson trace on and now even shakes the clown can bring it home! It's got a 3" and with 125 jhp it's a hoot.i'm crashing the club.

[goon]

Yep. Use Speer 135 grain GD's and Hogue rubber grips on mine.

[finfanatic]

I got this on Father's Day.

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg40/finfanatic88/Guns/Ruger-SP101-Right-small.jpg

I agree with whoever said it, "I should have got one of these long ago!"

It shoots .357s far better than it would seem from it's small size.

I love mine.

[roc1]

I just got me one will shoot it this weekend hopefully. My GP100 and Super Redhawk needed a little brother to keep them company.
Love the feel of this little guy better than any other snubby I have felt. The little airweights are brutal to shoot so I think this one will be alot better.
roc1

[hillbillydelux]

I know. One of them is not a ruger but its the only pic I had.

[wankerjake]

Hey I wanna join the club too!
Love this pistol!
http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo33/wankerjake/100_2052-1.jpg

[Nairbedaw]

Those Hogues look right at home on the SP. Do they print badly, or catch on clothing? Sure do look comfy!

[highmountain78]

Q1, Ruger GP100, stainless, 4" brl Q2, Hogue Walnut, finger grooved grips, Q3, Hornady's new .357 round.

I have tried a few S&W .357's, they might be a bit more sophisticated but, not nearly as rugged as the Ruger. After firing hundreds of rounds through it, its well broken in and the action is nice and smooth. It's very accurate and while its weight makes it a bit of a club, that weight and 4" barrel give it nice ballance and low recoil.

[kmrcstintn]

I had one of these in .357 mag w/ 3" barrel (one of the few I regret trading off for the 'latest-n-greatest'); I was getting better with it (even with the teeny tiny grip) when I went onto something else (probably one of the hicap 9mm's thinking I needed more bullets on board); I'm getting really, really itchy for another one, but this time I'll throw a Hogue grip on it for increased control (intended purpose would be SD during hunting, woods walking, car, and bedside)

[bearmgc]

I got boot grips on mine. Got a trigger job done on it and its smoooooth and light. It was my CCW for a long time. I went to a 1911 for CCW and bedside gun. Now the SP101 is my truck gun.

[wankerjake]

Those Hogues look right at home on the SP. Do they print badly, or catch on clothing? Sure do look comfy!
No they don't print too bad, although more than the small factory grips. Basically I can't wear tight shirts, it does pretty well. It is the only way to go for shooting 357's though.

[Nairbedaw]

Good to know, thanks Wankerjake.

[maniak]

I apologize at the outset for what will be a long post, but this is my Qualifying Post to the SP101 Club thread and I want to be sure to respond to all of the original poster's questions.

I'd hate to have my application rejected. 8^)

1) What do you own?

One 2.25" .357 "Satin Stainless." Just picked it up yesterday.

2) What grips do you use?

Hogue Monogrip[tm]. I put a few rounds through with the factory grips, which were fine w/.38 Specials but bruisers w/.357. I like to get all my fingers on the grip, as well; and the Monogrip has room for them.

3) Ammo in use?

I fired Sellier & Bellot 158gr full metal jacket .357s and and International "Green Elite" 110gr frangible .38 specials yesterday. They work. I'm not equipped provide technical commentary.

I plan to use

International "Green Elite" 110gr frangible for home defense (and zombie outbreaks).
three Federal 125gr Nyclad hollow point .38 special mixed separated by two CCI #9 shot shotshells for backwoods hiking and trail riding.
Federal 125gr Nyclad hollow point .38 special for urban hiking, trail riding and general concealed carry.

But I'm open to suggestions on those logistics.

4) Future changes considered for my gun?

I've just taken delivery on the Trijicon tritium front blade for the SP101, but haven't gotten it installed yet. (In the meantime, I've dabbed a little "White Out"[tm] on the front blade, visible in the attached photo (see thumbnail below).

I'm also seriously considering the "action job" described in this thread.

And I'll probably upgrade the grips to the smooth Hogue Pau Ferro Wood Grips. I honestly like the Coco Bolo better, but Amazon's got the Pau Ferro for $59 and the prices I'm seeing for Coco Bolo are in the mid-90s, so ... another box of ammo or my first choice in wood for the grips? What would you do?

5) If Ruger was to produce or bring back another caliber in the SP, what would [I] want?

I'll second your 9mm suggestion. In fact, it would be nice to see an SP101 convertible .357&.38/9mm, like they do with the Blackhawk (another fine Ruger revolver, IMHO). But more than that, I'd like to see an SP101 in .45 ACP. A lot.

6) What questions do I have for other SP owners?

Actually, the posters and postings to this thread have been extremely helpful in leading me to the selection of what I'm confident is one of my best choices yet in sidearms, and I want to thank you. (Thanks.)

I had used semi-autos my whole shooting life, but bought a Blackhawk convertible as my first wheel gun on a whim using a fine Massad Ayoob article from Backwoods Home (http://www.backwoodshome.com/articles2/ayoob101.html) as my rationale. Two trips to the range convinced me I also wanted a double-action in the same caliber that would be small enough for concealed carry. But which one? That's where you guys (and gals) came in; I'm very happy with my choice; thank you.

7) Holster(s)?

None yet.

I've bought a High Noon Split Decision in-the-waistband, tuckable holster for just about every pistol I've ever owned (with the somewhat obvious exception of the Blackhawk), and I've never been disappointed. It's reasonably priced, built to the gun, wears discretely, etc. For the SP101, however, I'm thinking the Split Decision's near-twin brother without the butt-forward cant, the Hidden Ally. I generally carry a Walther PPS in the small of the back, where the butt-forward cant eases presentation. The SP101, I'm thinking, will carry more comfortably just forward of the hip and straight up-and-down. That will likely be the holster I use nine times out of ten when I carry this sidearm.

But just because it's a "snubnose" and just because it looks so damn cool, I am also thinking seriously about a FiST verticle shoulder rig (http://www.fist-inc.com/holsters/holster/70.htm). My only concern about that rig at this point is that I fear it might cause me to talk like Dan Akroyd in Dragnet ... or maybe Nick Nolte in Mulholland Drive ... and maybe wear baggy suits. So if any of you guys (or gals) have experience, especially negative experience, with that holster, this would be a Really Good Time to save a brother a few bucks.

I also like the FiST #5 pocket holster (http://www.fist-inc.com/holsters/holster/70.htm), one of which I have and use for the PPS. I may get another for the SP101.

8) Speed Loader(s)?

Not using any of these yet. With a safe full of semi-autos with extra mags and not much experience with revolvers, I'll probably stick with what I know best if I see a situation developing in which reloading would be an issue. But I'm sure I'll try my hand with speed loaders at some point, just 'cause I can. So I'll keep the experience of the thread in mind when I go looking for one (or more) of those.

9) Reloading?

Nope. Not yet. But that brass looks pretty good coming out of the cylinder. And the prices on ammo are high. And then there's availability ... hmmm.

So that's it. Honest responses to all nine questions. When do I get my membership card? Do you need a photo for it? Does it have to be of me? What about instructions for the secret handshake? And can I be treasurer?

[Nairbedaw]

Nah, I really did mean literally. MY SP101 is less than a month old. By 3 days to be exact the build date was 6-20-09. Its still a baby, but at least its not a lead virgin anymore, :)
I did put about 200+ rounds through it last weekend and cant say enough good things about this gun! BTW, on a different note, wheres a good place to get speedloaders for it and what size are they? Am I right to think theyre the H&K 36A?

[Nematocyst]

I won't spend too much time here since I'm not a Ruger owner.

That's not because I don't appreciate Rugers. I do. Fine revolvers.

I plan to buy a Blackhawk.
But right now, I am a Smith owner.
(Mod 65 in .357m and a J-frame snub.)
That's just where I started for subjective reasons.

But I just wanted to stop in here for a minute and applaud the existence of another "club". I love the idea of club threads. (I belong to several, and have started two; see sig line for one.) They facilitate a homey feeling, lead to such incredible sharing of information, camaraderie and friendships.

I hope this one lives a long, long life.

Carry on. Long live the SP101 club.

Nem

[outerlimit]

This thing is sweet to dry fire, I'm stunned on how many folks complain about the trigger. This is rather smooth right out of the box, IMO.

I think they complain about the DA trigger. Mine was also heavy, but the single action was crisp and light. I think almost all of them are this way.

I had the 3" version and if I ever bought one again I think it would be the 4" model.

I thought they used to make a 4" barrel model, but I couldn't find any on Gunbroker.

[Gary in Pennsylvania]

GREAT THREAD!!!

Shouldn't die.

I had a 3" SP once.

Considering a 2" model now.

[kdstrick]

This thread is the one that lead me to THR forum. I had just purchased a 3" SP101 and wanted to improve the gritty trigger pull. Just a bit of dremel work, and a 11 lb mainspring did the job in fantastic fashion.

I'd LOVE to see this revolver in a 10mm!!! 40 S&W would work through it as well for a less expensive option. I would add a bit more of a rear sight also.

In my view, the SP is an all business revolver. I bought it for self defense, primarily.... from 2 and 4 legged predators. The size an ideal mix of concealability and brawn. Not as large as the 686, but larger than the 642. It now fancies a Meprolight front sight. The pic is of a leather backed/kydex IWB holster I made for it.
http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg214/kdstrick/IMG_4368.jpg

Gary is right... this thread should never die! :D

[RobG5538]

My little gem. Wolff springs, tritium front, hammer bobbed, cylinder bores chamfered, bead blasted, Hogues.
http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u155/RobG5538/Daddys%20toys/DSCN0150.jpg

[kdstrick]

Dang Rob... that is a Sexy revolver! The bead blast looks great.

[sebtool]

OK, I can't join yet, but I will soon! For some reason, I got bit by the SP101 bug, and I'll cure it with my next purchase/trade! Checked them out at a couple of shops, and they fit my hand, even with the stock grips. I'll probably lean towards the Hogue grips to get used to the gun, then we'll look for a hand filling wood grip. Any recommendations?

I've been looking for an SP101for a little while now - thought I had my 7600 30-06 pump traded for 1 locally, but the deal fell thru.... I really do need to trade/sell something before I get the next 'tool'!


Gun show this weekend -wish me luck!:D

[fxstchewy]

kdstrick, Nice Holster.

[tubeshooter]

Club member for about 8 years. Nothing fancy, just a 3" with a Hogue grip. Nothing pic-worthy.


Very solid. I am completely satisfied.

[EDIT: Whoops... already posted on page 4. Didn't realize this thread was that old.]

[TUBBY1]

Have a 3" with ct and love it . Got a bianchi in the belt holster and a cross draw belster from bandera leather i had made. Like them both. Shoot 38+p 125jhp and 357 in110fn or 125jcp. Good clean fun with function in mind.

[DammitBoy]

I've always owned a SP101 with a 2 1/4" barrel and I always will. My wife like it so much I had to buy her one for Valentine's day so she'd leave mine alone.

Now my daughter has decided she loves the SP101 too! She was content to shoot only my Mark II and Mark III until she finally worked up the courage to shoot .38 +p out of the SP101.

Now I guess I'll have to get another one...

[ShakyJake]

Hi all,
Found this thread through the search for the SP 101. Glad we have one for our little workhorse. Mine is a standard 2 1/4" bbl 357. I just put 10lb springs on it and a boot grip. Hope to try it today or tomorrow. My defense load is either Fed. 158gr LSWCHP NiClad or Aquila 158gr SJHP. Handles well and comfortable to shoot.
TaKe CaRe
Ted

[AH-1]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/txpete/DSCF2557.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/txpete/DSCF2558.jpg

[frankiestoys]

This is the newest addition to my growning family, but it has soon made its way up to one of my favorites. I quit the 642 club and came here :D

[JBB]

I had one and sold it about a year ago. One of the worst decisions I've made. Picked up a new one (2.25" with spurless hammer) this week and can't wait to get to the range. Great, tough, little gun. Won't be letting this one go.

[ShakyJake]

AH-1, frankiestoys and jbb
Welcome the the SP101 thread. AH-1 phenomenal pics. Seem suspended in air. frankiestoys saw your range results and like the consistency. Something I am striving for. Would like to see this thread be used as an area for exchange of ideas and thoughts for this great little revolver. Got to the range today and did pretty good with the 110gr Winch. wb. Use the Fed. 158gr niclad +p and Aguila 158gr SJHP as normal SD loads.

TaKe CaRe
Ted

[rd2007]

First post to preemptively join this club. I was in a local gun shop yesterday to check out Mossberg 500’s when I decided to look around. I’ve been wanting a .357 ever since I shot a coworker’s GP100 a couple months ago. I had given up on it, though, because I had already bought an XDm .40 and SIG Mosquito over the past two months and also bought my son a 24/7 .40 for his birthday. Anyhow, I saw the SP101, which I had never seen in real life, and knew that was what I was going to get. However, I talked myself out of getting it that day so I could research it and sleep on it. Research showed me that this is probably the only gun in the world that doesn’t get a bad review EVER and I really want it. I’m going with the 3” because my hands are bigger and I’ll just have to figure out a way to conceal it. I know my wife will probably not be happy about me spending even more money on guns, but this should satisfy the addiction for at least another couple months.
BTW, this forum has been a great source of information. Thanks to all who posted in this and the many other threads covering the SP101, especially the picture one. It is definitely a sexy gun, once the grips have been replaced..
hopefully I can get out of work a little early and I'll be the newest SP101 owner in a couple hours :cool:

[bulbboy]

Congratulations on your new tank!!


Enjoy!

[rd2007]

Thanks. I'm on my way to the store in a just a few minutes. I can't wait!

[Samilitant]

I'm on the road to getting a 3" SP101 soon... Is a gun show a good place to buy one price-wise, or should I just shop around the local stores for the best deal?

[gunnutery]

Depends. Sounds like a lot of people on here recently haven't been impressed with gun shows lately (price-wise and lack of merchandise). When I'm looking for something, I like to check out as many stores as I can including gun shows (I am very blessed with a patiant and gracious wife as she's usually with me when we stop at gun shops).

Good choice on a revolver.

[nelson133]

I've had the short barrel version with the bobbed hammer for over 8 years and it was my carry gun for most of that time. I had it ported at MagnaPort and I highly recommend the job and the company. The porting really helps on follow up shots.
My girl friend eventually fell in love with it after working her way up from the Ruger Mark II and getting past the intimidation factor. She was shooting about 100 rounds a week of .38 Special through it and wanted her own. We found a good deal on a used one, $380 with extra grips, holster and ammo, and she bought it last week. I bought her a porting job for her birthday and we are going to the range today.
I don't know if I am happier for her or me, after all, I get my SP101 back now.

[rd2007]

Just got back from the range a little while ago and I'm in love. That thing is smooth as butter, even with .357 Magnums. I shot regular .38 Special, .38+P, and .357. The regular .38 almost felt like my Mosquito shooting .22LR. +P was a little bit more, but still didn't even feel like my .XDm .40. The .357 Magnum felt like some serious power, but it was easily managed by all that beautiful stainless steel. Somehow it felt smoother than the GP-100 I shot a couple months ago, but that could be that I am just more comfortable with pretty much everything now. I remember that GP doing some serious kicking and the noise was amazingly loud. However, that was under a steel roof and now I go to a private bay where it's nothing but open sky over you and nobody discharging hot casings down your shirt..

[Legasat]

I've had my Security Six for over 25 years. It is still my nightstand gun.

I doubt I'll ever give it up.

[rd2007]

Here's my contribution to the gun porn collection. All three got a bath today and they needed it too.
107635

[Snobal]

A couple of weeks ago, the owner of my favorite gun shop asked me if I was interested in a "used" SP101 from Ruger.:evil:

I've never heard of Ruger selling their "used" guns....

Anyway, last week he got two "used" SP101's from Ruger and one was a 3".:cool:

The timing was about perfect and it measured out great --- so I took it home.:D

I was still wondering about a "used" gun from Ruger, but the 4-digit serial number shows it was made in 1992, and the "spent shell" package was dated this summer.

It had been fired, but not much. After a quick cleaning I took it to the range and with my Bullseye match ammo, it put 5 shots into about 2 1/2" at 25 yards (from sandbags). I was pleased about the group, but more pleased that it hits close to POA!

So last Thursday, I used it at our little Bullseye Match and standing, two-handed, shot a 279, 11x on the local version of an NRA National Match Course.:eek: (That score is above my average with my GP100's).

Today, I finally got back to the range and tried three different "pet" loads at 25 yards off sandbags. One load put 5-shots into 2.0" c-t-c (just to the right of my POA), another pet load did a 2.7" 5-shot group at 25 yards (just below my POA). Although the third "pet" load didn't group well, all three loads grouped all shots fired on a paper plate at 25 yards when holding center.

I plan to keep this gun.:D

BTW, The SP101 I got last year shot great 25 yard groups too, but the center of the groups were off the right edge of a paper plate at 25 yards. Sold that gun!

[ShakyJake]

Hi Legasat
I do not believe I would make that mistake again either. The revolver that brought forth the SP is definitely a keeper and welcome here any time. If she is that senior is she a blue model and if so has she developed any of that gorgeous plum coloring?
TaKe CaRe
Ted

[Samilitant]

Just bought a 3 1/16" model TODAY! Someday I'll name her, but I'll let her tell me what to be named once I own 'er for a while. :o) Thought I'd be artistic with my pics since everyone has seen a stock SP-101 already.
Love Gun 101
http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/samilitant/LoveGun101-1.jpg

SPray of Bullets 101
http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/samilitant/SPrayofBullets101-1.jpg

[frankiestoys]

samilitant
nice creative pic's
How do you know it's a she?:rolleyes:

[Legionnaire]

Ah, an "oldie but goody" thread. Since my first post on this thread back in 2007, I have added a couple SPs to the safe. Still have the original 2.25" .357, but have also added a 3-1/16" 9mm and a 4" .22LR. Guess I need to get the camera out and shoot some new pics.

[frankiestoys]

Ah, an "oldie but goody" thread. Since my first post on this thread back in 2007, I have added a couple SPs to the safe. Still have the original 2.25" .357, but have also added a 3-1/16" 9mm and a 4" .22LR. Guess I need to get the camera out and shoot some new pics.
ya, lets see em!

[anewconvert]

Picked up a 2 1/4" sp101 the other day. I got caught up in buying my first handgun a few months ago and picked up the new cz P07 even though I really wanted an sp101. Remedied that mistake on Tuesday. Took it to the range and really enjoyed shooting 'cowboy load' .38spl but found 125gr .357 to be abusive on my hand. Perhaps it was my grip but it beat the piss out of my trigger finger. Maybe a new grip? Regardless I doubt I'll ever notice the recoil if I needed to use it defensively as it's my carry gun.


BC

[Samilitant]

samilitant
nice creative pic's
How do you know it's a she?

Anything I have to take care of, spend money on, pay attention to, learn about but never know everything about, and lastly anything getting in my pants better be a SHE. ;o)


Speaking of "taking care of", tonight on it's 1-day ownership anniversary, I gave it a fluff and buff of all the internals, and ground the trigger and guard edges all niiiiiiiice and smoooooth. Really feels expensive now. I wonder how much work I'll have done to it by the time I shoot it for the first time...hmm.
http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/samilitant/justhappened.jpg

[rd2007]

Just got my Hogue Mongrip from UPS and put it on. I definitely recommend it for anyone with larger than normal hands. My pinky finger now has somewhere to go and it will block the trigger guard from tearing up middle finger. The directions are not the best in the world, but it still only took a few minutes.
hint: you have to take the plastic sideplates off the grip. I missed that step somehow and that's where the majority of the time was spent. :oops:

edit- left out a couple details. The first is we are finally out of a drought here, which means we've got about two feet of rain in the past two months and it's been raining all day, so I can't go to the range to test them out :( we definitely needed the rain, though, so I'm not complaining. Also, I got them from The Sportsman's Guide for $20.45 shipped. It took from last Sunday to get here from Minnesota with the ground shipping, but I couldn't beat that price. I used a $5 off coupon I found with a Google search to get it at that price.

[frankiestoys]

Made a range trip today with a friend of mine who just bought a new LCR.
I have only viewed the LCR from a display case, so this was my first encounter with one.
First thing i noticed was how light this thing was and how much of it was made of plastic :barf:
Well i think to myself ,its a RUGER how bad could it be.
Mike my friend says ''so let's see how she doe's ''
He loads his revolver and from 10 yards he fire's off his five rounds. I can see the look on his face is an uncomfortable glare.( like i just made a big mistake )
He hands me the revolver with out firring another cylinder and says '' ok let me try the sp ''
Well i think ok ,ill try the new gun, so i load her up & After pulling the trigger
the first time i remembered why i sold my 642.
After 10 rounds i handed it back to him and said ''that sucked ''
I found it very inaccurate as it shot way to the lower left, my sp were all center of target with 357 loads.
This gun was not for me the recoil was down right painfull ! the SP 101, inspite of its weight can be carried and used at the range its a great little revolver even when comparing it to siblings.
Maybe some of you guys might like these guns but ill keep my sp.

[messerist]

You can't beat these little guys.
http://i612.photobucket.com/albums/tt204/messerist/002-1.jpg

[fxstchewy]

Started carrying my SP101 IWB and i can't tell it's there, great revolver. :)