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Ruger SP101 3-inch ruger sp101
Ruger SP101 3-inch ruger sp101
  • Durable & dependable
  • Price
  • Easy to conceal
  • Heavier than the competition
  • Poor finish
  • Mediocre sights
Editor’s Note:

The Ruger SP101 is a small-frame revolver with magnum capability. Although geared toward concealed carry, the SP101 is overbuilt to handle a steady diet of heavy magnum loads. It does this by utilizing a triple-locking cylinder, solid sidewalls, and a thick frame. Low-profile sights, a smooth double action, and a crisp single action elevate this revolver even further. A transfer bar mechanism ensures safety against accidental discharge. Overall, the SP101 is a well-built revolver that users can rely on in any situation.

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Ruger SP101 Specs

Action
Double Action Only / Double/Single Action
Barrel Length
2.3in / 4.2in
Magazine Capacity
5rd
Magazine Included
No / Yes
Magazine Type
Fixed / Removable
Caliber
357 Mag / 357 Mag - 38 Special / 38 Special +P / 9mm Luger
Finish
Blue / Stainless
Overall Length
7.2in / 8in / 9.1in
Muzzle
Non-Threaded
Stock Material
Polymer
Weight
25-30oz
Price
$549.99

Ruger SP101 Features

5-shot .357 Magnum cylinder
Cushioned rubber grip
Triple-locking cylinder
Transfer bar safety
Solid-steel sidewalls

By The Numbers - Ruger SP101

Accuracy
This is tough to rate. Up close this gun is as deadly as a blind berserker, slaying anything with ease though distance takes a lot more effort on the part of the shooter.
Reliability
Built like a tank, runs like a top.
Customization
About the only thing I would consider upgrading on this gun is the sights.
Ergonomics
This gun is small but it is designed that way for portability and concealability. Sacrifices were made in ergonomics, but not to the extent where accuracy is affected.

Hands-On Reviews & Related Post

Ruger SP101 Variations & Comparables

3.5
Kimber K6s
VIEW DETAILS

Kimber K6s

$889.99

“Kimber did an awesome job with this revolver. Aesthetically it’s appealing and eye-catching. The controls are easy to manipulate, the trigger is beautifully smooth, and the gun feels good in my hands. The biggest downside is the need for speedloaders because they are not easy to find.” — Kat Stevens

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4
Colt King Cobra
VIEW DETAILS

Colt King Cobra

$779.99

The King Cobra is Colt’s revival of the medium-framed magnum revolver from their older “snake gun” lineup. While it may be a fairly standard 6-shot, 3-inch barreled revolver, it comes in at a price point similar to that of its competitors. This means you get the name value that comes with owning a Colt product without having to pay a premium for it.

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4.3
(1 rating)
Smith & Wesson 686 Plus
VIEW DETAILS

Smith & Wesson 686 Plus

$813.99

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus is our go-to recommendation if you’re looking for a first revolver. Reliable, takes both .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds, soaks up the recoil, and looks great to boot!

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Ruger SP101 Upgrades & Accessories

final verdict

“Overall, the Ruger SP101 is a great concealable revolver that’s reliable, beautiful, and built like a tank, but with mediocre sights that leads to only close-up encounters and a higher than average price tag that maybe better spent on newer pistols. But, and this is a great big “but,” this pistol is dependable and pretty easy to conceal.”  – Sean Curtis

Video Review of Ruger SP101

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