3" Ruger SP101 vs. 2"

[ianS]

I've got a S&W Model 60 steel frame snub but I've been thinking of getting another but the 3" SP101 is intriguing. I've shot the snub SP101 before but how much of an advantage has the 3" been for you over the snub, if any?

[Andy Taylor]

Unless it is a pocket gun, go with the 3". In .357 it gives a significant boost in velocity. In .38 It gives a boost, not as much as .357 but it is still there. Also the added sight radius is helpful. the only advantage to the 2" is in pocketablity. A 3" is just as easy to conceal in a belt holster as a 2".

[LowSpark]

+ 1 to what Andy said. I own both and although I love my little 60, I much prefer the Ruger. I added an aftermarket grip and a Wolff spring to lighten the pull and this along with the added sight radius makes a big difference in the shootability of the gun. It's pretty darn accurate at reasonable distances. Also, .357 is a much better round for PP in the home or on the trail (which is what I use mine for) and you can always shoot .38s. Finally, it's built like a tank.

BTW - nothing wrong with the stock grip. I just found that a larger Hogue fit my hand better. No matter which grip you use, definitely change out the spring. It's really easy even for the "handy impaired".

[Foriegn power]

I would get the 3" just because it'll be more trail worthy, but in the end it is what you want out of the firearm, you want a cargo pocket gun then the 2", you want it to be for protection, trail gun, trips to Alaska get the 3."

[rrr70]

I have a 3" SP101. It can shoot.

[Johansenk]

Now you have to decide between 5 shots of .357 or 6 shots of .327. That federal round has me interested. Anybody have any experience?

[89 Vision]

I actually prefer the 2.25" for the SP101. To me the beauty of the SP101 is it's compactness. If you want a longer barrel, go for the GP100.

[FUBAR]

the 3 inch balances better for me.

[El Gato]

we just got a 3 in in .327...
really like the gun and really like the 3 in ...
if you isn't carryin' it all day then you won't know the difference in weight except to shoot it and then it is a great help... accuracy std.s are better achieved due the longer barrel and the longer sight radius and the better sights...

for carrying get a lcr... for shooting, alot, the sp 101

[mattja]

I have the 3 1/16" model too. I didn't see the point of a 2" .357 Mag. The 3 1/16" model is bad enough with heavy .357 Mag loads. In fact, it's the only gun I own that drew blood (my blood) after just a few rounds. Now I always wear gloves.

The 2" model makes sense for .38 Special and .38 Special+P. The old FBI load, and all that. But for .357 Mag, I don't see the point.

So, I got the 3 1/16" model.

It is very accurate too, especially with .38 Special loads. And it's a joy to shoot. Next to a .22, it's probably one of the best handguns to introduce young shooters too. It's compact, not too heavy, and with light .38 Special loads, it's not going to turn anyone off to shooting.