GP100 good first revolver for carry?

[ReconTech]

I'm looking at the GP100 to carry, and just as a first revolver to buy. I like the looks of the blued one, and it feels rock solid compared to other brands that are more expensive...Any comments on the GP100? GOod and bad?

 

[JohnKSa]

It's a good, solid, reliable, revolver that happens to be reasonably priced and extremely durable.

I don't know of any reason not to carry one other than the fact that it's on the big side for a .357 revolver. If you like the gun and think you have a holster that will let you comfortably carry it then go for it!

I think that the GP-100 is an excellent first centerfire gun. Of course, I'm a bit biased since my first gun was a GP-100.

 

[Hkmp5sd]

Really depends on you and how you plan to carry it. The GP-100 is a big and heavy revolver. Not a first choice for concealed carry by many people. It's size will limit how you can successfully conceal it. I carried mine (6" stainless) in a shoulder holster for a fews years and that worked pretty good once I got used to the weight. Never did manage to find a belt/IWB carry method that worked for me.

As for shooting, I absolutely love my Ruger GP-100 and SP-101 revolvers. The GP is the most accurate revolver I own.

 

[ReconTech]

I don't necessarily need to conceal it. Georgia is an open or conceal state. Anyway, that doesn't matter for peace officers...

I was just looking at it because so far I have only had semi-autos, never revolvers...

Any problems associated with it? How does it shoot .357 magnum +P+?

 

[Jim March]

The GP100 is similar in size and heft to the L-Frame class S&Ws (686, etc) and the GP100 is probably stronger due to both Ruger's metallurgy and they have a "second latch" holding the cylinder closed at the crane, in addition to the one at the rear of the cylinder.

Cor-Bon sells some of the hottest 357 hunting loads available. The GP100 is their testbed . They've reportedly never managed to break one .

It's quite possible the GP100 is as strong as most of the N-frame 357s by S&W, despite being smaller.

If you're interested in the hottest 357 loads, the GP100 is one hell of a gun.

 

[Rob96]

Have carried mine no proble. Weighs the same as a 1911, just slightly wider because of the cylinder. Numerous holsters out there to accomplish concealed carry. Very formidable carry piece when loaded with Winchester 145gr Silvertips or 125gr Speer Gold Dots.

 

[stans]

The GP-100 is a bit big and heavy for daily carry, but it will stand up to a lifetime of shooting.

 

[PALongbow]

I carry a 3" .357 GP100 in a Don Hume IWB holters and its really comfortable. The trick to carrying the GP100 is finding the right holster.

Ron

 

[foghornl]

The GP-100 does have more...well "physical presence" than some .357's, but it will eat any ammo you can feed it, for as long as your arms and wrists hold up.

Pretty good choice for a DA .357, whether it is your first or 300th revolver.

[I want one to keep my Sheriff's Model .357 Vaquero company]

 

[mikewilczynski]

I have a GP100 stainless with a 4 in barrel. It is a great field gun and also works for concealed carry although not my first chice. I carry mine in a IWB by Michaels of Oregon or a pancake. I wish the trigger was better. I plan to have it smoothed out. But it is stll a great value. I had a Security Six in the 80s and sold it. I kick myslef every time i think about it. Ouch. Ther it goes again.

 

[9mmepiphany]

the security-six is the superior carry gun, but the gp-100 is better if you like to hot rod your loads.

it is a bit big for me to carry. i tried it as a duty gun, but went back to my python...they both use the same speedloader

 

[amprecon]

Why not go for the SP-101? My first handgun was also a 4" KGP-101. Awesome gun, tough as nails and very accurate. The same can be said of the SP-101, one less round though, but can also fire .357's and small enough for carry. Mine has a 3" tube and is very symmetrical and balanced.

 

[WESHOOT2]

I have two.
They perfect (kinda).

 

[Arub]

PALongbow: Which Don Hume's do you use? I like their PCCHs (have a couple for smaller weapons) but I was told that they don't make that model for the GPs. Is yours the model 715? Clip or belt strap?

 

[PALongbow]

Arub,

My Don Hume holster is the H715-M with the clip. I called the folks at Don Hume and they were really helpful in helping me select the right hoster. I have found this to be the most comfortable holster for the GP100. The price was right around $25.00 or so with shipping. Can't beat the price for a quality leather molded hoster.

Ron

 

[Arub]

Thanks, Longbow. I'll give them a call Monday.