The Ruger GP100 in .357 Magnum: A Definitive Guide to Performance, Durability, and Versatility

For discerning firearm enthusiasts, sport shooters, and individuals seeking a robust and reliable handgun for home defense or even hunting, the Ruger GP100 in .357 Magnum stands as a testament to American engineering and manufacturing excellence. Specifically, the model featuring a 6-inch stainless steel barrel and a 7-shot capacity (UPC 736676017737, SKU 1773) offers an unparalleled combination of power, precision, and enduring reliability.

This comprehensive guide delves into why the Ruger GP100 is not just another revolver, but a trusted companion designed to meet the rigorous demands of various shooting disciplines and real-world applications.

Who Is This Revolver For?

The Ruger GP100 appeals to a wide range of shooters and firearm owners. Are you someone who:

• Prioritizes durability and longevity in a firearm? The GP100’s robust stainless steel construction ensures it will withstand years of heavy use.
• Seeks exceptional accuracy for target shooting or competitive events? Its precise manufacturing, combined with a 6-inch barrel and superior sights, allows for pinpoint groupings.
• Needs a reliable and powerful option for personal or home defense? The .357 Magnum cartridge, coupled with a 7-round capacity, offers formidable stopping power.
• Enjoys the flexibility of shooting both .357 Magnum and more economical .38 Special ammunition? This revolver handles both with ease, making practice more accessible.
• Is looking for a handgun capable of small to medium game hunting? The .357 Magnum's ballistics make it a viable choice for ethical hunting within appropriate ranges.
• Appreciates classic revolver design combined with modern enhancements? The GP100 blends traditional aesthetics with features engineered for today's shooter.
• Values a firearm with manageable recoil, even with powerful loads? The heavy frame and expertly designed grip work together to absorb significant felt recoil.

If any of these resonate with your needs, the Ruger GP100 deserves your serious consideration.

Unpacking the Ruger GP100’s Core Features

The distinct qualities of this specific Ruger GP100 model (SKU 1773, UPC 736676017737) are what set it apart in the crowded revolver market. Each component is meticulously engineered to contribute to its overall performance and user experience.

1. The 6-Inch Stainless Steel Barrel

The elongated 6-inch barrel is a cornerstone of this model’s appeal, offering multiple advantages:

• Enhanced Accuracy: A longer barrel provides a longer sight radius, which inherently aids in precise aiming. This is crucial for competitive target shooters aiming for tight groups at extended ranges. It also allows the bullet more time in the barrel to stabilize, contributing to greater ballistic consistency.
• Increased Muzzle Velocity: The extended barrel allows for a more complete powder burn, translating into higher muzzle velocities for both .357 Magnum and .38 Special loads. This means more energy on target, whether for hunting or defensive applications.
• Superior Durability: Stainless steel construction ensures exceptional resistance to corrosion, rust, and wear. This makes the firearm incredibly low-maintenance and ideal for use in various environmental conditions, from humid ranges to rugged outdoor settings.
• Recoil Absorption: The added mass of the longer, heavier barrel helps to effectively mitigate felt recoil, making the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge more comfortable to shoot, especially during extended range sessions.

2. Impressive 7-Shot Capacity

While many traditional revolvers feature a 6-shot capacity, this Ruger GP100 elevates its utility with a 7-shot cylinder. This extra round might seem minor, but it provides:

• Increased Firepower: In a self-defense scenario or a fast-paced shooting competition, one additional round can make a significant difference. It offers an extra layer of confidence and reduces the need for immediate reloads.
• Psychological Advantage: Knowing you have an extra round available can enhance focus during critical moments, allowing the shooter to concentrate on fundamentals rather than immediate ammunition conservation.

3. Precision Sighting System

Accuracy is paramount, and the Ruger GP100 delivers with a highly effective sighting system:

• Fiber Optic Front Sight: The bright, highly visible fiber optic front sight rapidly draws the shooter's eye, enabling quick target acquisition even in varied lighting conditions. This is particularly beneficial for dynamic shooting sports or defensive applications where speed is key.
• Adjustable Rear Sight: The adjustable rear sight allows for precise zeroing of the firearm with different ammunition types and at varying distances. This customization is invaluable for target shooters who demand absolute precision and for hunters needing to confirm point of impact with their chosen loads. The ability to fine-tune your sights ensures optimal performance regardless of the specific .357 Magnum or .38 Special ammunition you choose to employ.

4. Ergonomic Rubber Grip with Hardwood Inserts

The grip of any firearm is critical for comfort, control, and recoil management. The Ruger GP100 features a unique grip design:

• Superior Recoil Absorption: The core rubber material of the grip is specifically engineered to cushion the hand and effectively soak up the significant recoil generated by .357 Magnum cartridges. This allows for more comfortable shooting, reduced hand fatigue, and quicker follow-up shots.
• Enhanced Control: The rubber provides a secure, non-slip purchase on the firearm, even with sweaty hands or adverse weather conditions. This enhances overall control and contributes to consistent accuracy.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The incorporation of hardwood inserts not only adds a touch of classic elegance but also provides a sturdy foundation for the shooter’s hand. This blend of traditional appearance and modern functionality makes the GP100 both practical and visually appealing.
• Interchangeability: Ruger’s grip frame design allows for easy interchangeability, though the stock rubber with hardwood inserts is often preferred for its balance of comfort and aesthetics.

Operational Excellence: Beyond the Surface

The Ruger GP100's excellence extends beyond its visible features, rooted deeply in its robust construction and intuitive operation.

Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA) Versatility

Like many traditional revolvers, the GP100 operates in both double-action and single-action modes:

• Double-Action (DA): A long, deliberate trigger pull both cocks the hammer and releases it, firing the round. This mode is excellent for rapid, spontaneous engagements where immediate action is required. The GP100's double-action pull is notably smooth and consistent.
• Single-Action (SA): The hammer is manually cocked (either by hand or by the preceding double-action shot), resulting in a much lighter, crisper, and shorter trigger pull. This mode is preferred for precision shooting, allowing for maximum accuracy at the range or in hunting scenarios.

Unyielding Construction and Safety

Ruger is renowned for building firearms that are "built like tanks," and the GP100 is no exception:

• Robust Frame: The GP100 boasts a heavy, solid frame that is designed to withstand the pressures of continuous .357 Magnum firing. This over-engineered approach contributes significantly to its longevity and reliability.
• Triple-Locking Cylinder: A hallmark of Ruger revolvers, the triple-locking cylinder secures the cylinder at the front, rear, and bottom, ensuring perfect alignment with the bore when the hammer falls. This design enhances accuracy and strengthens the firearm's structural integrity.
• Transfer Bar Mechanism: This critical safety feature prevents the hammer from directly contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled. This design eliminates the risk of accidental discharge if the revolver is dropped, making it exceptionally safe to carry with a loaded cylinder.
• Full Underlug Barrel: The full underlug (the extended portion of the barrel shroud beneath the barrel) adds weight forward of the frame, further aiding in muzzle control and reducing muzzle rise during firing. This also serves to protect the ejector rod.

Common Questions About the Ruger GP100

When considering a revolver of this caliber, potential owners often have specific inquiries. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

"Why choose a revolver like the GP100 over a semi-automatic pistol?"

While semi-automatics offer higher capacity, revolvers like the GP100 excel in areas where simplicity, reliability, and sheer stopping power are prioritized:

• Unparalleled Reliability: Revolvers are less prone to stoppages (like jams or misfeeds) than semi-automatics, as they do not rely on a magazine or complex cycling mechanisms. If a round fails to fire, simply pull the trigger again for the next chamber.
• Ease of Use: Revolvers are often simpler to operate, making them excellent choices for new shooters or those who prefer straightforward mechanics, especially under stress.
• Ammunition Versatility: The .357 Magnum chamber can safely fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition, offering a wide range of power levels and significantly reducing training costs.
• Impressive Power: The .357 Magnum cartridge is a potent round, offering significant ballistic energy for defensive situations and hunting.

"Is the .357 Magnum too much recoil for a casual shooter?"

The .357 Magnum is a powerful cartridge, but the Ruger GP100 is specifically designed to manage its recoil effectively. The heavy stainless steel frame, 6-inch barrel, and the highly absorbent rubber grip with hardwood inserts work in concert to significantly reduce felt recoil. While it delivers a firm push, most shooters find it manageable, especially with practice. The ability to shoot milder .38 Special loads for training also allows shooters to gradually build comfort and proficiency.

"How does the GP100 perform for competitive target shooting?"

The GP100 with its 6-inch barrel and adjustable sights is an excellent choice for various target shooting disciplines. Its precision manufacturing, combined with a crisp single-action trigger pull, allows for impressive accuracy. The added weight contributes to stability, helping shooters maintain a steady aim and recover quickly for follow-up shots. It’s a popular choice for informal target shooting and even some club-level competitions.

"Can I use the Ruger GP100 for hunting?"

Yes, the .357 Magnum is a proven cartridge for hunting small to medium-sized game such as deer, wild hogs, and coyotes, provided appropriate ammunition is used and within ethical ranges. The 6-inch barrel maximizes the cartridge’s velocity and energy, making the Ruger GP100 a capable hunting handgun in jurisdictions where it is legal. Always verify local hunting regulations and choose ammunition specifically designed for hunting.

"What are the maintenance requirements for a stainless steel revolver?"

Stainless steel revolvers like the Ruger GP100 are renowned for their low maintenance. They are highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Regular cleaning after each shooting session with standard bore cleaner and gun oil is generally all that's needed. Periodically, a light coat of rust preventative oil can be applied for long-term storage, especially in humid environments. The GP100’s simple design makes field stripping and cleaning straightforward for any owner.

The Ruger GP100: A Legacy of Trust and Performance

The Ruger GP100 in .357 Magnum, particularly this 6-inch, 7-shot stainless steel variant (UPC 736676017737), embodies a commitment to rugged reliability, precision, and shooter comfort. It’s a firearm that handles the formidable power of the .357 Magnum with grace, while offering the versatility to train with more economical .38 Special loads. From the competitive shooting range to the quiet woods, or as a steadfast guardian in your home, this revolver is designed to perform without compromise.

Its reputation as a workhorse, combined with its classic aesthetics and modern ergonomic features, makes it a perennial favorite among those who demand the best from their firearms. The blend of robust construction, advanced sighting, and thoughtful design elements ensures that the Ruger GP100 is not just a purchase, but an investment in enduring quality and a superior shooting experience.

All Ruger firearms, including this highly sought-after GP100, are available at DEGuns, your trusted source for premium firearms and accessories.

Ruger GP100 Key Specifications

Feature	Description
Caliber	.357 Magnum (also fires .38 Special)
Capacity	7 Rounds
Barrel Length	6.00 inches
Material	Stainless Steel
Sights	Fiber Optic Front, Adjustable Rear
Grip	Rubber with Hardwood Inserts
Action	Double-Action / Single-Action (DA/SA)
UPC	736676017737
SKU	1773