I don't consider a SP101 light, I have had a hammer less SP101 in my belt for near 10 years. I like the Gun but due to weight may go back to my MD36, I have bad knees and hips so the weight is important. The SP101 can be a house Gun with my GP100.
Which caliber for first revolver?
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TexasBill
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I personally like my Model 60 with the 3-inch barrel; it's on the brisk side of snappy with Magnum loads but it's fun to shoot with .38 Specials. It's definitely compact enough for CCW with a good belt and holster.
The Ruger SP-101 is another good choice; I liked the Smith's trigger better but there are some good aftermarket options for the Ruger and it is less expensive.
If you're serious about Magnums, I would strongly suggest a larger revolver. Some people have mentioned the the S&W Model 19 Combat Magnum, but one of the L-frames or the Ruger GP-100 might be a better choice. For a steady diet of Magnums, the Colt Python or S&W Model 27 reign supreme. Both are pricey but the S&W is still manufactured so you're not going to pay (too much) of a premium.
The Ruger SP-101 is another good choice; I liked the Smith's trigger better but there are some good aftermarket options for the Ruger and it is less expensive.
If you're serious about Magnums, I would strongly suggest a larger revolver. Some people have mentioned the the S&W Model 19 Combat Magnum, but one of the L-frames or the Ruger GP-100 might be a better choice. For a steady diet of Magnums, the Colt Python or S&W Model 27 reign supreme. Both are pricey but the S&W is still manufactured so you're not going to pay (too much) of a premium.
TexasBill
Member
The SP101 with the bobbed hammer weighs 25 ounces. The Model 60 with the 2.125-inch barrel weighs 22.6 ounces (the 3-inch barrel versions weighs 24.5 ounces). The Model 36 with the 1.875-inch barrel comes in at 19.5 ounces. You're going to save a grand total of 5.5 ounces.
According to my handy-dandy digital scale, my Model 60 with five rounds of 158-grain ball ammo weighs 26.65 ounces.
If you're having trouble with the weight, consider a shoulder holster. There are some good ones out there and they will take the weight of the gun off your hips.
Confederate
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The Ruger .357 in a 4-inch barrel would be the way I'd go. If I could locate a vintage Security-Six, I'd go for it. If not, the GP-100s are okay...certainly a better deal than the new S&W 686s. If, perchance, you can find an older 686, with wood grips and plated hammer and trigger, I'd go with one of those. They're beautiful guns and were produced to directly compete with the Colt Python. The early 686s were gorgeous, with phenomenal workmanship. The current ones are overpriced and primarily made by machine. S&W have cut a lot of corners and passed few, if any, savings on to the customer. At a gun store where I live, they are a good two hundred dollars more than the Ruger, plus, they looked like they were finished with sandpaper.
oldbear
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For a new revolver shooter, not a new shooter, a quality .357 Magnum is hard to beat, if for now other reason tan the variety of ammo that can be safely used in one.
TexasBill, your right, when I carried my MD36 it was always in a shoulder Holster. So that's why I always thought it was lighter. I've got three shoulder Holsters. I think one is for my GP100, I'll see if that will work. I've always carried my SP101 in my belt, thanks I'll try a Shoulder Holster.
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