The Ruger GP100 Revolver: A Benchmark in Durability and Versatility

For those seeking a robust, reliable, and exceptionally durable handgun, the Ruger GP100 revolver stands as a prime candidate. This iconic firearm, specifically the Ruger 1702 GP100 model with its 4.20-inch blued steel barrel, is engineered to excel in a variety of demanding roles, from personal and home defense to recreational shooting and as a dependable companion in the great outdoors. It's often considered by firearms enthusiasts, seasoned shooters, and those new to revolvers alike, due to its intuitive operation, manageable recoil for its caliber, and the renowned "built-like-a-tank" quality Ruger is celebrated for.

What makes the Ruger GP100 a top choice for discerning users? It's the thoughtful integration of design principles that prioritize strength, safety, and ease of maintenance. When users ask "What's the best revolver for home defense?" or "Which handgun can handle frequent range use?", the GP100 consistently emerges as a highly recommended option. Its ability to chamber both powerful .357 Magnum cartridges and the milder, more cost-effective .38 Special ammunition offers unparalleled versatility, making it an excellent investment for training and practical application.

Unrivaled Engineering: The Core of GP100 Performance

The Ruger GP100's reputation for endurance is not accidental; it's the direct result of superior engineering and robust construction. Every component is designed to withstand the rigors of consistent use with powerful cartridges, ensuring a long service life and unwavering reliability when it matters most.

• Triple-Locking Cylinder: This is a cornerstone of the GP100's design. Unlike many revolvers that lock at one or two points, the GP100's cylinder is secured at three critical points: the front, rear, and bottom of the frame. This unique triple-locking mechanism ensures extremely positive alignment between the cylinder and the barrel. What does this mean for the shooter? It translates to enhanced accuracy, reduced wear, and incredibly dependable operation shot after shot. This design virtually eliminates cylinder play, contributing to consistent bullet flight and superior long-term performance.
• Patented Transfer Bar Mechanism: Safety is paramount in any firearm, and Ruger's patented transfer bar mechanism provides an unparalleled level of security. In this system, the hammer never directly contacts the firing pin. Instead, when the trigger is pulled, a transfer bar rises into position, allowing the hammer to strike the bar, which then transfers the force to the firing pin. If the trigger is not fully pulled, the transfer bar remains out of alignment, preventing an accidental discharge even if the hammer is struck or the firearm is dropped. This feature offers immense peace of mind, particularly for those considering a firearm for home defense.
• Integrated Sub-Assemblies for Easy Maintenance: Ruger understands the importance of easy field stripping and cleaning. The GP100 features integrated sub-assemblies, which simplifies the process of disassembling and reassembling the firearm for cleaning and routine maintenance. This user-friendly design means less time spent on complicated procedures and more time enjoying your revolver. It also ensures that even less experienced firearm owners can properly care for their investment, extending its lifespan and maintaining its peak performance.

Ergonomics and Aesthetics: The Blued Steel Standard

Beyond its internal mechanics, the Ruger GP100 1702 model offers a classic aesthetic combined with practical ergonomics, ensuring both comfort and effective handling.

• Blued Steel Construction: The frame, barrel, and cylinder of this GP100 model boast a deep, rich blued finish. This traditional finish not only gives the revolver a timeless, attractive appearance but also provides a durable protective layer against corrosion and wear. Blued steel is a hallmark of quality and resilience, appealing to those who appreciate classic firearm craftsmanship.
• Black Hogue Monogrip Grip: Recoil management is crucial, especially with a powerful cartridge like the .357 Magnum. The GP100 1702 comes standard with a comfortable Black Hogue Monogrip. This ergonomic grip is designed to absorb recoil effectively, significantly enhancing shooting comfort during extended range sessions. Its contours provide a secure and natural hold, improving control and accuracy. Furthermore, the GP100's grip frame design is incredibly accommodating, allowing users to easily swap out the stock grip for a wide variety of aftermarket custom grips, tailoring the revolver to their individual hand size and preference.
• 4.20-inch Barrel Length: The 4.20-inch barrel length is often considered a sweet spot for a .357 Magnum revolver. It strikes an optimal balance, providing sufficient barrel length to maximize the ballistic potential of the .357 Magnum cartridge (leading to higher muzzle velocities and energy) while maintaining a manageable overall length of 9.50 inches for practical handling, whether at the range or in a holster. This length also contributes positively to sight radius, aiding in aiming precision.
• Ramp Front / Adjustable Rear Sights: For consistent accuracy, the GP100 features a ramped front sight and an adjustable rear sight. This combination allows shooters to fine-tune their point of impact for different ammunition types or shooting distances, ensuring optimal precision. Whether you're plinking targets or aiming for tighter groups, these sights provide the flexibility needed for various shooting scenarios.

Versatility in Ammunition: .357 Magnum and .38 Special

One of the most compelling advantages of a .357 Magnum revolver like the GP100 is its ability to chamber and reliably fire .38 Special cartridges. This versatility offers significant benefits:

• The Power of .357 Magnum: When maximum power and stopping force are required, the .357 Magnum delivers. It's a potent cartridge known for its high velocity and impressive energy transfer, making it a formidable choice for personal defense and certain hunting applications. Its flat trajectory over moderate distances also makes it suitable for target shooting.
• The Practicability of .38 Special: For training, plinking, or situations where reduced recoil is desired, .38 Special ammunition is an excellent alternative. It's generally more affordable and produces less muzzle blast and recoil, making it ideal for new shooters to learn fundamentals and for experienced shooters to practice without fatigue. The ability to switch between these two calibers without any modifications to the firearm is a significant practical advantage, effectively giving you two guns in one. This flexibility makes the Ruger GP100 an incredibly cost-effective option for long-term ownership and varied use.

Who is the Ruger GP100 For?

The Ruger GP100, model 1702, is designed to meet the needs of a diverse group of firearm owners:

1. Home Defense Enthusiasts: Its unquestionable reliability, substantial stopping power with .357 Magnum, and intuitive operation make it an outstanding choice for securing your home and family. The robust steel frame and comfortable grip help manage recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots if needed.
2. Recreational Shooters and Range Enthusiasts: If you enjoy spending hours at the shooting range, the GP100's durability and ability to handle thousands of rounds without complaint make it an ideal companion. Its .38 Special compatibility keeps practice sessions affordable and enjoyable.
3. Outdoorsmen and Hunters (Sidearm): For those venturing into the wilderness, whether for hiking, camping, or hunting, the GP100 serves as a reliable sidearm for personal protection against threats, both human and animal. Its rugged construction is well-suited to harsh environmental conditions.
4. First-Time Firearm Owners: While powerful, the inherent simplicity and safety features of a revolver, combined with the GP100's excellent ergonomics and ability to shoot milder .38 Special, make it a surprisingly good option for new shooters who are committed to proper training. Revolvers are often easier to learn basic operation and malfunction clearance compared to semi-automatic pistols.
5. Collectors and Ruger Aficionados: For those who appreciate classic American-made firearms with a reputation for quality, the Ruger GP100 is an essential addition to any collection. The blued finish and robust design evoke a sense of traditional craftsmanship.

Why Choose a Ruger GP100 from DEGuns?

When considering a significant firearm purchase, trust and availability are key. The Ruger GP100, a testament to American manufacturing excellence, embodies Ruger's unwavering commitment to building "rugged, reliable firearms." This commitment ensures that every GP100 leaving the factory, including this 1702 model (UPC 736676017027), meets stringent quality standards. It’s an investment in personal safety and recreational enjoyment that is built to last a lifetime.

When you are ready to experience the unmatched durability and versatility of the Ruger GP100, look no further than DEGuns.com. As a trusted retailer, DEGuns offers a comprehensive selection of firearms, ensuring you can find the perfect model to meet your specific needs. Their commitment to customer service and ensuring a smooth purchasing process makes acquiring this exceptional revolver straightforward and reliable.

The Ruger GP100 1702 is more than just a firearm; it's a legacy of performance, safety, and unwavering reliability. Whether you're defending your home, honing your skills at the range, or exploring the great outdoors, this revolver is engineered to be a dependable extension of your will.

Ruger GP100 1702 Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Ruger
Model	GP100
UPC	736676017027
MPN	1702
Caliber	.357 Mag
Capacity	6 Rounds
Action	DA / SA
Barrel Length	4.20"
Barrel Material	Steel
Barrel Finish	Blued
Barrel Twist	1:18.75"
Frame Material	Steel
Frame Finish	Blued
Frame Size	Medium
Cylinder Finish	Blued
Grips	Black Hogue Monogrip
Sights	Ramp Front / Adj Rear
Safety	Transfer Bar
Overall Length	9.50"
Weight	40 oz
Grooves	5
Hammer Style	Exposed
SKU	70255