Unleashing Reliability and Power: The Ruger GP100 .357 Magnum Revolver

For shooters seeking a firearm that exemplifies rugged durability, dependable performance, and formidable power, the Ruger GP100 .357 Magnum revolver stands as an iconic choice. This meticulously engineered medium-frame revolver, identified by its SKU 1704 and UPC 736676017041, is a testament to Ruger's unwavering commitment to quality and user satisfaction. Whether your needs lean towards personal protection, home defense, precision target shooting, or a robust companion for outdoor adventures, the GP100 offers a compelling blend of features designed to exceed expectations.

Who Is the Ruger GP100 For?

The Ruger GP100 is an exceptional firearm catering to a diverse range of individuals, from seasoned enthusiasts to those considering their first revolver.

• First-Time Revolver Owners: Its straightforward operation, robust design, and the inherent reliability of a revolver make it an excellent entry point into firearm ownership. The ability to shoot milder .38 Special ammunition also provides a less intimidating and more cost-effective learning curve.
• Experienced Shooters & Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate classic design combined with modern engineering will find the GP100 a joy to handle and shoot. Its capacity for powerful .357 Magnum rounds offers a significant challenge and reward for marksmanship.
• Home Defense Practitioners: The GP100’s substantial weight, fixed sights (though adjustable rear), and impressive stopping power of the .357 Magnum make it a formidable deterrent and an effective tool for protecting your home and family. Its mechanical reliability is paramount in high-stress situations.
• Target Shooters & Competitors: With its 6-inch blued steel barrel, the GP100 provides an extended sight radius that aids in accuracy, making it a favorite for precise target work at the range. The crisp single-action trigger pull contributes to tighter groups.
• Outdoor Enthusiasts & Hunters: As a robust and reliable sidearm, it's well-suited for backcountry protection against dangerous game or as a companion for small game hunting where a powerful, accurate handgun is preferred. Its all-steel construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of the outdoors.

Solving Your Firearm Needs with the GP100

What problems does the Ruger GP100 solve for its owners? It addresses the fundamental need for a reliable, safe, and powerful firearm that can perform consistently in various scenarios.

• Reliability Under Pressure: Questions like "What is the most reliable handgun for self-defense?" or "Which revolver won't fail when it matters most?" are often answered with the GP100. Its simplistic yet robust design, featuring a triple-locking cylinder, ensures flawless operation even in demanding conditions.
• Versatility in Ammunition: Users often ask, "Can I shoot .38 Special out of a .357 Magnum revolver?" Yes, and the GP100 excels at this, offering unparalleled versatility. This means you can train with more affordable and softer-recoiling .38 Special rounds, then switch to the potent .357 Magnum for defense or hunting without changing firearms.
• Durability and Longevity: For those concerned about a firearm's lifespan, asking "How durable are Ruger revolvers?" or "Will this gun last a lifetime?", the GP100's heavy-duty blued steel construction answers definitively. It's built to absorb recoil and endure countless rounds, promising generations of reliable service.
• Maintenance Simplicity: Queries such as "How easy is it to clean a revolver?" are often considered by new owners. The GP100's design, featuring integrated sub-assemblies, allows for remarkably easy field stripping and cleaning, ensuring your firearm remains in peak operating condition with minimal fuss.

Key Features and Their Benefits Explored

The Ruger GP100, model 1704, is meticulously crafted with features that elevate its performance and user experience.

• Triple-Locking Cylinder: This patented feature is a cornerstone of the GP100's legendary strength and reliability. The cylinder is locked into the frame at three points – front, rear, and bottom. This unparalleled stability ensures a more positive alignment of the cylinder to the barrel, contributing to superior accuracy and utterly dependable operation under any circumstance. This design significantly enhances the revolver's structural integrity, allowing it to withstand the powerful pressures of the .357 Magnum cartridge over extended periods.
• Patented Transfer Bar Mechanism: Safety is paramount, and Ruger's patented transfer bar mechanism provides an unparalleled measure of security. This innovative system prevents the hammer from striking the firing pin unless the trigger is deliberately pulled all the way to the rear. This design virtually eliminates the risk of an accidental discharge from dropping the firearm, providing peace of mind whether carried, stored, or handled. It's a critical feature that addresses the question, "What are the best safety features in a revolver?"
• 6-Inch Blued Steel Barrel, Cylinder & Frame: The substantial 6-inch barrel length significantly contributes to increased muzzle velocity and an extended sight radius, both of which enhance accuracy. The blued finish, a classic and attractive treatment, provides a durable layer of protection against corrosion and wear, while also giving the revolver a timeless aesthetic. The all-steel construction of the frame and cylinder ensures the GP100 can easily absorb the recoil of powerful magnum loads, promoting shooter comfort and increasing the firearm's lifespan.
• Black Hogue Monogrip: Ergonomics play a crucial role in shootability and control. The GP100 comes standard with a comfortable Black Hogue Monogrip, which provides a secure and comfortable hold. This grip design effectively dissipates recoil energy, making even full-power .357 Magnum loads more manageable, particularly during extended shooting sessions. Its design accommodates a wide variety of hand sizes and helps shooters maintain a firm and consistent grip for improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. The modular grip frame design further allows for easy customization with various aftermarket grips if desired.
• Exposed Hammer: The exposed hammer design allows for both double-action (DA) and single-action (SA) operation. In double-action mode, a long, deliberate pull of the trigger both cocks and releases the hammer. For precision shooting, the hammer can be manually cocked for a light, crisp single-action pull, optimizing accuracy. This versatility caters to different shooting preferences and scenarios, from rapid defensive firing to careful target placement.
• Ramp Front / Adjustable Rear Sights: The GP100 is equipped with a ramp front sight and a fully adjustable rear sight. This combination allows shooters to fine-tune their point of impact for different ammunition types and shooting distances, ensuring maximum accuracy out of the box. Adjustments are simple and intuitive, making it easy to zero the revolver to your specific needs.

The Power and Versatility of the .357 Magnum

The .357 Magnum caliber itself is a significant advantage of the GP100. Often described as one of the most versatile handgun cartridges, it excels in various applications:

• Self-Defense: The .357 Magnum delivers formidable stopping power, making it a highly effective cartridge for personal and home defense. Its energy transfer and penetration capabilities are well-regarded.
• Hunting: For hunters pursuing medium-sized game or requiring a reliable sidearm in the field, the .357 Magnum offers sufficient power and accuracy within appropriate ranges.
• Target Shooting: While powerful, the inherent accuracy of the .357 Magnum, especially when paired with a quality firearm like the GP100, makes it rewarding for improving marksmanship skills at the range.
• Ammunition Options: The ability to chamber and reliably fire .38 Special ammunition is a major economic and comfort benefit. For training, a steady diet of .38 Special offers less recoil, less muzzle blast, and generally lower cost per round, making practice sessions more enjoyable and sustainable. When the situation calls for it, a simple change of ammunition transforms the GP100 into a powerful defensive or hunting tool.

Maintaining Your Ruger GP100

To ensure your Ruger GP100 remains a dependable companion for years to come, regular maintenance is crucial. Fortunately, the GP100 is designed for easy care.

• Cleaning: After each shooting session, especially when firing lead ammunition or high-pressure loads, a thorough cleaning is recommended. This involves disassembling the integrated sub-assemblies (a process made simple by Ruger's design), cleaning the bore, cylinder chambers, forcing cone, and frame with appropriate solvents and brushes.
• Lubrication: Proper lubrication of moving parts, such as the cylinder pin, hammer pivot, and trigger assembly, ensures smooth operation and prevents wear. Use high-quality gun oil sparingly.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect your revolver for any signs of wear, damage, or loose components. Pay close attention to the cylinder lock-up, barrel, and grip screws. If you notice any issues, consult a qualified gunsmith.
• Storage: Store your GP100 in a safe, dry, and secure location, ideally in a humidity-controlled environment to prevent rust. Ensure it is unloaded and separated from ammunition when stored.

Why Choose Ruger?

When considering a firearm purchase, the brand behind the product is as important as the product itself. Ruger, an American manufacturer, has a long-standing reputation for producing firearms that are not only innovative and robust but also accessible and reliable. Their commitment to quality control and customer satisfaction has earned them a loyal following worldwide. The GP100 series embodies these values, providing a no-nonsense, hard-working revolver that will perform when you need it most. This reputation for building "Ruger tough" firearms is a significant factor for those asking "Which gun brands can I trust?"

The Ruger GP100 is more than just a firearm; it's an investment in reliability, safety, and performance. Its balanced weight of 45 oz and overall length of 11.50 inches contribute to its stable handling and reduced felt recoil, allowing for more precise shooting. The exposed hammer and adjustable sights offer tactical flexibility and customization for various shooting disciplines. For those looking to acquire this exceptional revolver, the Ruger GP100 with UPC 736676017041 is readily available from reputable firearms retailers such as DEGuns, where you can find a wide selection of quality firearms and accessories.

Ruger GP100 .357 Magnum Specifications (UPC 736676017041)

Feature	Specification	Description / Benefit
Brand	Ruger	Renowned American firearm manufacturer known for durability and innovation.
Model	GP100	Iconic medium-frame revolver, celebrated for its robust design and reliability.
SKU / MPN	1704	Unique product identifier for this specific configuration.
UPC	736676017041	Universal Product Code for precise identification and tracking.
Caliber	.357 Magnum	Powerful and versatile, also safely fires .38 Special ammunition.
Capacity	6 Rounds	Standard capacity for many revolver applications, offering ample firepower.
Action	Double Action / Single Action (DA/SA)	Offers versatility for both rapid firing (DA) and precise shots (SA).
Barrel Length	6 inches	Extended length for increased velocity, improved accuracy, and longer sight radius.
Barrel Material	Steel	Durable construction for strength and longevity.
Barrel Finish	Blued	Classic aesthetic and protective coating against corrosion.
Barrel Description	Steel	Confirms high-quality, heavy-duty barrel construction.
Twist Rate	1:18.75"	Optimal rifling twist for stabilizing both .357 Mag and .38 Spl projectiles.
Grooves	5	Number of rifling grooves, contributing to bullet spin and accuracy.
Frame Size	Medium	Balanced size, providing good control without excessive bulk.
Frame Material	Steel	Heavy-duty steel for maximum strength and recoil absorption.
Frame Finish	Blued	Classic blued finish for durability and appearance.
Cylinder Finish	Blued	Matches frame and barrel, providing consistent protection and look.
Grips	Black Hogue Monogrip	Ergonomic rubber grip for comfortable handling and enhanced recoil absorption.
Sights	Ramp Front / Adjustable Rear	Allows for precise aiming and zeroing for different ammunition types or distances.
Hammer Style	Exposed	Permits manual cocking for single-action shooting.
Safety	Transfer Bar	Patented mechanism prevents accidental discharge unless trigger is fully pulled.
Overall Length (OAL)	11.50 inches	Total length, indicative of handling characteristics and barrel length.
Weight	45 oz	Substantial weight helps mitigate recoil and provides stability.