The Sturm Ruger Gp100 is a modern, heavy‑duty revolver built for reliability under a variety of conditions. With a robust stainless steel frame, a smooth double‑action/single‑action (DA/SA) operation, and a reputation for durability, the GP100 has earned a trusted place in many ranges, homes, and carry collections. In this simple guide, we break down what sets this revolver apart, how it works, and what to consider if you’re evaluating one for personal protection, sport shooting, or general practice.
By focusing on practical details—design, handling, maintenance, and safety—you’ll gain a clear sense of whether a Sturm Ruger Gp100 fits your needs and how to care for it to keep it running smoothly.
Key Points
- Sturdy stainless steel frame and a robust cylinder design that withstands repeated shooting and heavy recoil.
- Versatile chambering options centered on the .357 Magnum / .38 Special family, with common practice loads and defense options.
- Six‑round capacity with a straightforward, proven action that’s easy to maintain in the field or at the range.
- Reliable DA/SA trigger with consistent feel across many variants, making it approachable for new shooters and satisfying for experienced ones.
- Strong aftermarket support and broad availability of grips, sights, and accessories to customize fit and performance.
Design and Build
The GP100 family uses a durable stainless steel frame and a solid one‑piece cylinder, engineered to handle regular recoil without warping or loosening. Most models feature a fixed or adjustable front sight and a rear sight tailored for accuracy at common handgun ranges. The construction emphasizes longevity and consistent performance, which is why the GP100 remains a popular choice for training, competition, and practical shooting scenarios.
Operation and Handling
Operating a GP100 is straightforward: in DA mode, the trigger rotates the cylinder and fires; in SA mode, you can manually cock the hammer for a lighter, cleaner trigger break. The revolver cycles through six chambers in sequence, delivering a reliable shot with each pull. For new shooters, practicing with both DA and SA will help you develop a steady grip and predictable follow‑through, which aids accuracy and confidence at the range.
Maintenance and Safety
Maintenance is typically simple: regularly clean the cylinder faces and forcing cone, wipe down the frame, and lubricate the moving parts where specified in the manual. Periodic inspection of the crane, ejector rod, and cylinder alignment helps prevent functional issues. As with any firearm, following basic safety rules is essential: treat the gun as loaded, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and store it securely when not in use.
What calibers does the Sturm Ruger Gp100 accept?
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Most GP100 models are built for the .357 Magnum/.38 Special cartridge family, with the ability to fire .38 Special as well. When using higher‑pressure loads like +P, verify the specific model’s ratings and consult the owner’s manual for any limitations.
Is the GP100 suitable for home defense or hunting use?
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Yes, the GP100 is commonly valued for personal defense and reliability. For hunting, it can be effective at short to moderate ranges with appropriate ammunition, but it’s less common than lever‑action or semi‑automatic options for hunting scenarios. Always check local regulations and choose ammo that matches the intended use.
What maintenance steps are recommended for the GP100?
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Regular cleaning of the cylinder and forcing cone, light lubrication on the moving parts, and periodic inspection of the crane and ejector are standard. After firing, wipe the firearm down to remove residue and store it in a dry environment to prevent corrosion.
How does the GP100 compare to other Ruger revolvers?
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The GP100 generally offers a modern frame, higher durability, and heavier weight compared to some compact or lighter Ruger revolvers. It sits between high‑end duty/target revolvers and compact concealed‑carry options, balancing accuracy, capacity, and recoil management for a wide range of shooters.
What should I look for when buying a used GP100?
+Check for smooth DA/SA action, consistent trigger pull, no excessive movement in the barrel or frame, and a reliable ejector. Inspect the cylinder for wobble, inspect the grips for cracks, and verify that the sights are intact and adjustable if applicable. A thorough test fire is ideal if possible.
