New gun yesterday

[fudgie]

GP100 .357 mag 3" barrel. Used but never fired.

Gonna put some rounds thru it this morning. Was gonna use it for trading fodder but I may keep it!

[.]

The GP100 is a nice revolver. It was always one of my favorites.

[cookiedough]

Looks nice but would prefer a longer barrel most likely. 

I would think with such a short barrel it would kick (jump up/recoil) just a bit more. 

Let us know how it shoots.

[Rams]

GP100 .357 mag 3" barrel. Used but never fired.

Gonna put some rounds thru it this morning. Was gonna use it for trading fodder but I may keep it!

Looks nice but would prefer a longer barrel most likely. 

I would think with such a short barrel it would kick (jump up/recoil) just a bit more. 

Let us know how it shoots.

I agree.   Looks like a good Concealed Carry but I'm thinking after putting a box of round down range my wrist would be still feeling the kick.   

My last revolver was a Colt Trooper 357, 6 inch barrel.   Had some kick back but was deadly accurate.   I miss that gun, wish I had never parted with it.

[Chrisj CMA]

Since I have put a couple hundred rounds through this monster, the S&W M500 - 500 magnum


I really dont hardly feel the kick at all with this baby even with 158 gn full .357 rounds.  Feels like a .22 to me now.  Its a S&W M686-6 4" bbl  I had a hard time deciding between this and the GP 100.  Came down to which one felt better in my hands.  Its my favorite CCW

[Slyk Willy]

welcome to the GP100 club. Here's mine.

[Stanley Steamer]

Don't forget to work on your taunts!!.......

Matt Steele Outdoors (3) Shooting Grip Essentials

[Billinva]

Lots of folks say that if they could have only one handgun, it would be the GP100.

[MacDragon]

I like the larger grip on the GP... The small grip on my  Ruger SP101 makes it kick more with a .357 round.  Nice looking snubnose though.

[Big Al of Tennessee]

Ruger GP100 Law Giver 4" barrel with Rose Wood and Rubber Trimmed Grip.

My favorite home defense revolver.

Did a little test on a 2X6 Treated Board. it was only surpassed in damage by my 410 defense round.

.380, 9mm, 40cal, 357, and 410 shotgun. All will kill. Some kill faster.

357,Left a nice hole, not to be taken lightly.

.357, more one shot kills than any other hand gun.

Keep it.

357 Magnum Gold Dot Ballistic Gel Test

.357 Magnum Hornady Critical Defense Ammo Gel Test

[Jess from VA]

Fudgie, 3 and 4 inch bbl med frame .357s are among the finest fighting handguns ever made (IMHO).

The Ruger GP is actually built on a .41 magnum frame (like the colt pythons/troopers), unlike Smith K frames which are just a bit smaller/lighter.  But that extra beef makes that a lifetime shooter of hot .357s or anything else, and with less felt recoil.  The 3" takes a little bit more practice, but should out shoot most small autos all day long.  Practice with .38 spl fodder (about the cheapest target ammo there is), and a few of your hot 125gr JHP carry ammo.  If the hot .357 is too much muzzle/forcing cone flash, get +P .38 Special (which is still slower than standard .357, but much easier on the hand/ears, and still good ballistics for humans).

Really a bit big/heavy for full time concealed carry, a nice strong side OWB, high rise holster up under the right arm easily hides under a jacket or vest.  Add two good speed loaders and you're in business.

Blade tech sells a nice OWB Kydex for a 3" bbl Gp100 (for whatever width belt you want) (belt loops are more stable than paddles) (there will be many more for 4" bbls, which will work with a 3" just fine)

http://shop.blade-tech.com/owb-holster-c-1_23_24.html#.UxIdIfuSrh4

Paddle Safariland.


Galco thumbreak leather


While that Hogue grip (in your picture) will be more pleasant to shoot with, the original rubber/wood grips are still very user friendly, and carry better with less drag on clothes. (used original grips should be cheap and available)



For smaller yet, Badger makes a boot grip for the GP100 (so does Eagle)

[fudgie]

Yea after getting it I may keep it. Been looking at a Super Blackhawk SA for a few yrs to use as hunting. This GP will be a good field gun for me since I'm always out there in the spring and fall. Usually just carry my SA .22 6" while out there. I went to 2 gun shops and found no holsters. Im left handed so its diff but may have my buddy make a kydex paddle if I dont find one today.

It shot well esp at 50'. Just shot at a pop bottle in the snow drift. Kit & I each put 12 rounds or more thru it. Very nice and didnt notice any recoil. We are use to 5 shots so it was diff to count to 6 

[..]

Yea after getting it I may keep it. Been looking at a Super Blackhawk SA for a few yrs to use as hunting. This GP will be a good field gun for me since I'm always out there in the spring and fall. Usually just carry my SA .22 6" while out there. I went to 2 gun shops and found no holsters. Im left handed so its diff but may have my buddy make a kydex paddle if I dont find one today.

It shot well esp at 50'. Just shot at a pop bottle in the snow drift. Kit & I each put 12 rounds or more thru it. Very nice and didnt notice any recoil. We are use to 5 shots so it was diff to count to 6 

SCUSE ME!!!

Did I miss something here.

KIT & I.

Do we get an explanantion???

[Master Blaster]

Since I have put a couple hundred rounds through this monster, the S&W M500 - 500 magnum.

I like big bores, Love my BFR in 45/70, but also like my North American Arms 22. Only gun I have regrets about was a 1976 Ruger 44Mag single six I let getaway from me after I picked up a Redhawk.

[RDAbull]

Hey fudgie, I didn't buy any guns yesterday, or the day before, or ever.
I don't own any guns.........no guns hidden at my house.......or office...or car.....or bike......
or on me for that matter.

There, I think I'm clean for anyone listening.

Shoots nice, dosen't it.

[9Ball]

That's the exact revolver my wife just purchased in December...well built.

I put in a set of Wolff springs to reduce the trigger pull and smooth out the action and it made a big difference in shooting DA for her.

The only thing this short barrel is missing compared to the remaining GP-100 line is the quick change front sight option that the latest versions have.  Small sacrifice for concealed carry I guess.

Enjoy...

[scoobydoo]

Fudgie, looks good I think you will like it. I have a SW model 19 with a 2 1/4 barrel only thing I don't like is it get heavy if ya wear it all day, that's why I carry the LCP.
Same thing KIT & I   ????   
Phil

[fudgie]

She still comes over and we do things once in a while. Downhill slide as shes still not comin back. Took a truck load of her crap with her yest.   

[..]

She still comes over and we do things once in a while. Downhill slide as shes still not comin back. Took a truck load of her crap with her yest.   

Well that makes it difficult all around. 

[BigChris99]

The GP100 is the VERY next gun I want. I called a local gun shop yesterday and they said they are scarce.  I'm on a waiting list there. I'm going to keep calling around. Probably be put on more waiting lists. While I love the weather, or lack of it, here in California, the gun laws and availability of almost anything gun related,SUCKS! Rant over, just frustrated. Beautiful pistol, sir. I would most defiantly keep it. 

[Jess from VA]

The GP100 is the VERY next gun I want. I called a local gun shop yesterday and they said they are scarce.   I'm on a waiting list there. I'm going to keep calling around. Probably be put on more waiting lists. While I love the weather, or lack of it, here in California, the gun laws and availability of almost anything gun related,SUCKS! Rant over, just frustrated. Beautiful pistol, sir. I would most defiantly keep it.  

Here's one down in Rancho Cucamonga.  (price is steep)

http://www.armslist.com/posts/2533754/riverside-california-handguns-for-sale--ruger-gp100-4-2--blacked-357-magnum

[BigChris99]

The GP100 is the VERY next gun I want. I called a local gun shop yesterday and they said they are scarce.   I'm on a waiting list there. I'm going to keep calling around. Probably be put on more waiting lists. While I love the weather, or lack of it, here in California, the gun laws and availability of almost anything gun related,SUCKS! Rant over, just frustrated. Beautiful pistol, sir. I would most defiantly keep it.  

Here's one down in Rancho Cucamonga.  (price is steep)

http://www.armslist.com/posts/2533754/riverside-california-handguns-for-sale--ruger-gp100-4-2--blacked-357-magnum

Thanks Jess. They go for 649.00 new. I called around today.

[fudgie]

Then I did well at a tad over $500. 

[BigChris99]

Then I did well at a tad over $500. 

Yes you did. I'm kinda on the fence about getting one right now. I'd really like to have a GP100, always wanted one. the price IS steep that's for sure. But I don't think they will get any less expensive in the future so I'll probably go ahead and pull the trigger(so to speak!) on a new one. I have kicked myself for years for not buying a Colt Python or Anaconda when they were available at a reasonable price. I don't want to let a GP100 turn into my next regret. I'd like to pick up a few more guns that have been on my want list in the next five years or so, while I'm still working.

[fudgie]

Then I did well at a tad over $500. 

Yes you did. I'm kinda on the fence about getting one right now. I'd really like to have a GP100, always wanted one. the price IS steep that's for sure. But I don't think they will get any less expensive in the future so I'll probably go ahead and pull the trigger(so to speak!) on a new one. I have kicked myself for years for not buying a Colt Python or Anaconda when they were available at a reasonable price. I don't want to let a GP100 turn into my next regret. I'd like to pick up a few more guns that have been on my want list in the next five years or so, while I'm still working.

Dad has 1 of the 2 Colts mentioned. He paid like $300 but that was early 90's.

[Jess from VA]

Then I did well at a tad over $500.  

Yes you did. I'm kinda on the fence about getting one right now. I'd really like to have a GP100, always wanted one. the price IS steep that's for sure. But I don't think they will get any less expensive in the future so I'll probably go ahead and pull the trigger(so to speak!) on a new one. I have kicked myself for years for not buying a Colt Python or Anaconda when they were available at a reasonable price. I don't want to let a GP100 turn into my next regret. I'd like to pick up a few more guns that have been on my want list in the next five years or so, while I'm still working.

I think my (new) Python was around $800, in 1988 or so.  Fired it some, but wanted it pristine, so it stayed a safe queen for many years.  I had a highly tuned Smith 66 anyway, so I traded the Python for something I really wanted more (and got a bit more than $800 in the trade).  I don't think Pythons were ever reasonable, we have locals trying to get $2-4K for minty used ones (no thanks).

If you are considering spending for a new GP100, I'd really price and handle a (minty used) Smith K frame 19(blue)/66(stainless) or heavier Smith L frame 586(blue)/686(stainless) before deciding.  The size/weight of the GP is on par with the Smith full length underlug L frame 586/686, and the K frames a a bit smaller, lighter with the finest triggers Smith ever produced.  Personally I'd get a 4" bbl with target sights.  6" bbl is better for pure target work, but I prefer the 4" for all purposes. I do admit a preference for Smiths.  FWIW

[BIG--T]

Looks nice but would prefer a longer barrel most likely. 

I would think with such a short barrel it would kick (jump up/recoil) just a bit more. 

Let us know how it shoots.

The 3" barrel shouldn't be bad. I've got the LCR 357 with a 1.875" barrel!! But the recoil is not bad at all which really surprised me and is pretty accurate. On the other hand, I wouldn't want to shoot 158 or 180 grain at the range all day!  

[signart]

Pythons for 2-4K?... I'm rich!

[Jess from VA]

Only if you can find a buyer.  The listings I referred to have been on VA gun boards for weeks and weeks.
Think he's almost at $5K for a nickel plate 2 1/2" bbl. 

Course you may have heard the rumor, many who live in and around DC have more money than brains..... and unrepentant greed.

[BigChris99]

Funny you bring up the L frame S&W 586 .357 Jess. Got one. 6" barrel, blue with some of the most beautiful wood grips on it. I just pulled it out of the safe last weekend. Great gun. I'll never part with it. It will go to my son, as will all my guns. So I'm not lacking in the .357 dept. by any means. I have the original box it came in, the purchase date was 1992. I know the S&W is probably a better gun than the GP100, but for some reason I have always liked the way the GP100 looks. Also, I'll get the 4" barrel on the GP. And I like Rugers too. I have a P85 Mk2 9mm and a Single Six and a Mark 1 Bull Barrel 22 auto. After the GP is purchased I'll probably look into father and son Ruger 10/22's.

[solo1]

I had a 6 inch GP100 that I sold to my son. I had a 4 inch Security Six .357  that I sold to my other son.  I had a three screw Super Blackhawk (old Model)  with a beautiful blued finish that I gave to my son.  I had a Browning Medalist, left handed, with the case, weights, screwdriver, ,etc, that I gave to my son.

i had a Series 70 Colt 1911 that I bought used but in like new condition for $125.00 that I sold.

I had two flat bolt Ruger 77's (first year production) that I sold.  Both were bought for about $150.00 each.

I bought and sold a Colt Woodsman for a price of $300.00.  I sold a Hi Standard 'Buck Rogers' Trophy .22 target pistol for a modest sum.

I don't regret that I gave guns to my son but , as to the rest, you get the idea.

I'm kinda dumb in regards to firearm money making.   

[Jess from VA]

Yes Wayne, there is selling to the public, and selling to friends/family. 

My 4" Gp went to a fellow VRCCer, for under $400.

Most of my spare Valk parts were paid forward by gift.
________________________

BigChris, when choosing between Smith and Ruger, one may not really be better than the other, only preferred. 

If you would like to extend your .357/.38 family here is another nice choice.  Esp in CA, lever guns are probably way down the list of hate. (unfortunately neither is made any more and used has gone to collector status $)


http://www.marlinfirearms.com/Firearms/1894centerfire/1894C.asp

Or

The Winchester 94 Trapper in.357

(or a Rossi M92, but I am not sure of quality)

[GiG]

She still comes over and we do things once in a while. Downhill slide as shes still not comin back. Took a truck load of her crap with her yest.

FUDGIE:

Trust me on this...
When she comes over, DO NOT give your ex a firearm - unloded or loaded - under ANY circumstance! 

[BigChris99]

Yes Wayne, there is selling to the public, and selling to friends/family. 

My 4" Gp went to a fellow VRCCer, for under $400.

Most of my spare Valk parts were paid forward by gift.
________________________

BigChris, when choosing between Smith and Ruger, one may not really be better than the other, only preferred. 

If you would like to extend your .357/.38 family here is another nice choice.  Esp in CA, lever guns are probably way down the list of hate. (unfortunately neither is made any more and used has gone to collector status $)


http://www.marlinfirearms.com/Firearms/1894centerfire/1894C.asp

Or

The Winchester 94 Trapper in.357

(or a Rossi M92, but I am not sure of quality)

Thanks Jess. I already have a 30-30 Winchester in the safe too. I was a huge fan of the show "The Rifleman" growing up. Chuck Conners was one of the original badass's   

[FryeVRCCDS0067]

Ruger revolvers virtually never break or wear out. Bill Ruger was one of the great inventors of our time in my opinion.

I believe he designed and built a car once which would have lasted nearly forever but was unable to sell the design.

Carry gun/home defense gun/field gun... who knows. But a gun your decedents can still be using 200 years from now? Probably so.  

I have to admit though, I don't know if he had a hand in the design of this gun or if it came after his death?