Ruger SP-101: "The Forever .357" by Nutnfancy

The Ruger SP-101 defies the odds. At a stout 26 ounce, this little stainless steel subcompact revolver remains a huge seller for Ruger and very popular with all types of dudes. Compared against much lighter weight alternatives like the Ruger LCR, SW Centennial, Bodyguard, or Scandium framed J-frames, the SP-101 is a portly CCW carry companion. And yet it prevails and sells. Many responsible civilians, LEOs, homeowners, and outdoorsman opt for the little SP-101 as their first choice. To hold and shoot the SP-101 is to begin to undersand why. First, its heft provides what I feel is a certain shootability is such a small form factor. If you haven't done it recently, find opportunity to do a reality check in shooting a .357 load in a subcompact revolver. The word "unpleasant" comes to mind for most with the Scandium framed S&Ws being tortuous in nature. But the 26 ounce SP-101, while still no full size or heavy gun, does manage to tame these loads to controllable and for some (like masochists like myself) even enjoyable levels (which to me opens up recreational shooting opportunities in this small gun). For many, like myself, the SP-101 is enjoyable to shoot but all will understand in practice that it is difficult to shoot well at distance. But with .357 full power loads, it is a hand cannon which barks and spits fire with authority. Maybe now we can understand its appeal. And more importantly, this little cannon is built tough and rugged, able to withstand such battering throughout its (and YOUR!) lifetime. Utilizing a cylinder crane locking pawl, a thicker frame and permissible barrel lug is realized and the SP-101 achieves amazing strength for its size. While other lighweight .357s might end up in the parts bag, the Ruger will still be chugging along. So in the estimation of thousands, the Ruger SP-101's weight is good weight. Does it make the best concealed carry choice for most though? Probably not as many will stop carrying it after some time (but many do) and many better choices abound. Also many will be satisfied with the quality of the Ruger. Fit and finish of the Ruger is adequate albeit not as good as Smith and Wesson. Consider it serviceable. Several models are offered with 2.25" and 3.06" barrel options. A few downsides: sharp edges do exist [hammer, trigger] and should be addressed by the user, firepower is limited (5 rds .38/.357, 6 rds .327 Federal), and trigger is stiff on most examples [responding nicely to competent work however]. But in this relatively high value revolver the upsides prevail (and thats why I am recommending it!): decent sight picture, ergonomic grips (easily swapped out with the stud frame design of the SP-101), accurate, and compact. So as a truck gun, home defense option, or just wilderness companion (if you system can accept the weight), the Ruger SP-101 has excelled since 1989. It is an authoritative little .357 that can last forever. /////////////////////////// Nutnfancy LIkability Scale : 8.5 out of 10 ////////////// Music by
Torly Wong, http://torley.com/. /////////////////////////////// Some images from PhotoBucket.com whose posters have agreed to royalty-free worldwide distribution through unqualified agreement to Photobucket.com Terms of Use.

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[rklemaster]

Dude Alert! Very high 'dude' per minute voice over.

[nutnfancy]

@rklemaster You must be new here. -- Veri (Nutn's sister)

[classof77]

@ChefTactical I think folks may be talking past each other on the weight issue.

Nutnfancy isn't saying the SP101 is *pointlessly* heavy; the weight is inherent in being a tough, overbuilt solid steel .357 snubby that is compact, but still big enough to shoot comfortably. And the weight has real advantages for shootability.

But in 2011, when you look at the field of commonly carried handguns, a weight of 26 oz is way heavy for a five-shot firearm with a 2.25" barrel.

BTW I love the SP101.

[kovemaster5591]

my sp101 outlasted my 686

[zackrichards1994]

@printo69 I am worried about the hammer snagging when I carry too. That's why I love my S&W 638 because of the shrouded hammer. It can be cocked and there is also no risk of snagging. I read that someone has the hammerless version, If you're worried about that, try and get one of those models. Stay armed!

[You2ubePranks]

@Thestealthfighterguy haha i got it dude

[Thestealthfighterguy]

I got this gun for my wife...good trade don't you think! ;)

[teammazza]

Great review as always. When is Nutnfancy doing a review on the HK P30 9mm? Thx

[azreal289]

I bought this gun as my first. I handled pretty much every j frame made at a local gun show. As soon as I picked it up I knew it was different. This thing is a tank in a good way. My model is the doa version and after extensive dry firing the trigger has smoothed nicely. That dry firing also gave me a good chance to get used to the long double action pull. This is a perfect carry gun and a perfect first gun to buy with recreation carry purposes in mind. It can certainly go the long haul.

[HYBRIDCOMBATIVES]

I carry the SP101 daily everyday for over 10 hours. The weight issue isnt a concern in any aspect. You don't even know it is there. I will also ccw a full size 1911 or a Smith 686. My balls are heavy too. I carry them everyday as well.

[HYBRIDCOMBATIVES]

@printo69 Don't snag the hammer. Mission accomplished.