Ruger GP100: 4" vs 6" Barrel?

[Phil3]

I have explored buying a 4x caliber revolver but not finding exactly what I want and can see now that this is not an ideal choice for a first 6 shooter. So, looking at the Ruger GP100. Question is, for target shooting, is the 4" or 6" barrel best? I expect I would be shooting 38 Specials most of the time. My wife will shoot it infrequently. I have not handled the 6", but wonder if it is too front heavy. Any GP100 owners care to comment? This gun may act as a home defense weapon too, but would the 6" barrel rule that out?

Phil

[E Michael]

Gp match champion at 4.2 inch barrel.

[muzzle_flip]

Gp match champion at 4.2 inch barrel.

so off the top of my head, with the match champion, you get a fiber optic front sight, upgraded wood grips, smoother trigger and cylinder flute contours.

I think is is worth the extra money for the match champion.

[Nick Adams]

Split the difference? 5 inch model 1740?

[BEE]

You'll need at least an 4" barrel to get the best performance out of a 357 round.

[Socalman]

I have no experience with the 6" but I can tell you that I love my GP-100 in 4". Built tank tough and it is my favorite handgun. When at the range, I generally warm up with a box or two of .38's, then switch to the .357 for a box, maybe more.

[Phil3]

Split the difference? 5 inch model 1740?

I was all excited about this model, until I saw it is not approved for CA, according to the Ruger website. Damn!

Phil

[bsg]

i'd go with a 4" variant and add camping companion to it's potential applications; personal preference.

[Big Data]

Match Champion with adjustable rear sight.

[brian5271]

I have the half lug 6" barrel and like it a lot. In my opinion there is no advantage to a shorter barrel for target shooting or home defense. This also happens to be my wife's favorite to shoot when using 38's.

It is really just a matter of personal preference. Either way you will be getting a great revolver.

[Bobshouse]

4 incher balances better, 6 incher is a little front heavy.

[edgalang]

I vote for 6". Unless you are going to carry it for duty, go for the longest barrel available IMO.

[oghl888]

I have a 4in and a 6 in 686. The 4 inch gets 90% of the range time between the two because the 6 inch is a bit too top heavy

[TeddyBallgame]

You'll need at least an 4" barrel to get the best performance out of a 357 round.

maybe, but i have a model #1715 which is the 3" barrel and i love it...i used to shoot a 4" King Cobra and i can't really see a difference

[Webologist]

I have a 4" and love it, my buddy has a 6". For trips to the range either will do. If you plan to carry it in a holster, or use it for self defense, the 4" is better. My buddy can't get it to fit in an underseat vault. You can also compete in IDPA matches with the 4", but not the 6".