Why did I want THIS gun part 27 Ruger GP100 4” .357 Magnum

[@ronaldbogucki796]

Fiberoptic sights - GP100 some one needs to talk about how easy it is to change the front sight on a GP 100, if you want a fiberoptic sight there is a easy way to change out the sight , there is a button on the front of the barrell that you push in hold and the original sight will pivot forward pull it out hold in the button and drop in at a angle the new front sight. I am older and this really makes it super nice to shoot.

[@crankygunreviews]

Cool! Good to know

[@GrizBear63]

I got a fiber optic sight for my GP100. Love it. Like you said changes out very simply.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@GrizBear63 I may try one- I have a fiber optic front sight on my SP101 22lr and it’s great

[@flyingwyoming5184]

I just learned this while putting XS sight's on my GP100.

[@grahamohea2424]

I have a blued GP100 in a 4 inch just like this, but I swapped the grips out as I didn't like the finger grooves. It is built like a tank and handles even the hottest of .357 Magnums with ease. I much prefer Ruger revolvers to Smith as I like the way that they feel much better and the extra weight doesn't bother me.

[@crankygunreviews]

I like how solid feeing they are. Even the SP101 with hot .357 shoots amazingly well.

[@grahamohea2424]

@@crankygunreviews Until recently, I've only ever shot .38 Special out of my SP-101, reserving the magnums for my GP-100. A couple of weeks back, I thought I would throw 50 rounds of 125gr .357 Magnums through the SP-101 just to say that I have. While I shot it more accurately than I would have thought, even in double action, it actually took some skin off my thumb and made my hand hurt for over a week afterwards. The GP-100 handles 125gr Magnums like it ain't no thing, but in the SP-101, it is an... "experience", to say the least

[@crankygunreviews]

@@grahamohea2424 I have pachmayr renegade wood grips on my sp101 so they fill up the hand better. I love the look of the Ruger factory sp101 grips, but they’re not the most comfortable

[@grahamohea2424]

@@crankygunreviews Yeah, I didn't like the original SP-101 grips either, so I did swap then out for some Hogue grips

[@robertbraun4708]

My next revolver. Best .357 out there!

[@crankygunreviews]

They’re so good! Built like a tank

[@ernest9606]

Love my ruger gp100. It's probably my favorite out of all my pistols. They will shoot till the end of time. Mine is in stainless steel but I think I'd wrather have the blued steel. It just looks more cool. But the gp100 in my opinion is best 357 on the market

[@crankygunreviews]

It’s not the flashiest or smoothest, but possibly the toughest

[@Graymanone]

A four inch revolver is the perfect home defense firearm for home defense. It's simple to maintain, easy to load and much safer than a semi for most shooters.

[@crankygunreviews]

It’s definitely great

[@thumperjdm]

Bought my 4" SS GP100 over 25 years ago. Like many others have said, when the gun first debuted, it was love at first sight. To my eye, the soft edges of the whole gun, the full under-lug, and the wood/rubber grips make it look like it's a $3000 custom handgun. The fact that it costs the same, if not less than the competition is just icing on the cake.

[@crankygunreviews]

I think Smith's are nicer looking, but you cannot beat the utility and strength of the Ruger for the money

[@GeneLucas2941]

Great video! I've had a 686, a King Cobra, and just about 2 months ago, a brand new GP100 7-shot 4.2" barrel in stainless with FO front sight. I've run quite a bit of full power 357 magnums in it. The GP100 is hands down, my favorite. It seems more rugged than the first two. I like the fact that it locks up in the crane instead of the forward end of the ejector rod and it has no side plate. I love the smooth 2-step trigger. I can hear it and feel it. The second step happens when the cylinder stop seats in the cylinder stop notch. So, I use that second step to stage it almost like a single action. Very pleasant to shoot even with the heaviest magnum loads.

[@crankygunreviews]

I agree with the staging feeling- it’s got a smooth trigger

[@normvw4053]

I bought my first GP-100 some 27 years ago, I guess you could call it love at first sight. It's the most astecticly pleasing revolvers I have ever seen. It's beauty aside, it is one very utilitarian pistol. I've fired countless 38SP and 357MAG'S through it, both factory and hand loads. The modular design allows for a disassembly to it's modular sections, (use the Owner's Manual for this and don't lose the pin.). I've experienced one problem that required a gunsmith, I had a 38SP squib load, one of mine, that locked up the pistol. The gunsmith was able to shear the hard cast bullet and clear the barrel, so they are not idiot proof, lesson learned. I taught my wife how to shoot with it and it became hers. So when my daughter asked what she should get I found one for her, 4" blued, she loves it. A practical, functional, tough and pretty firearm, and hard as hell to find these days.

[@crankygunreviews]

I don’t think it’s the most aesthetically pleasing pistol, but it does have a certain draw to it. They are excellent pistols, and if someone was to choose just one revolver and had a limited budget, this would be one of my suggestions. They’re just built to last, and easy to care for

[@backwoodsolutions]

Ruger gp100 is one tough pistol I love mine and I wouldn’t sell it for anything

[@crankygunreviews]

I won’t sell mine either, I saw a blued SP101 recently, thought about picking it up because it’s the first one I’ve seen, but I’m short on cash right now. Building a motor for my bel air right now

[@Zona-dw9rp]

Just got this same gun yesterday. Put 70 full .357s through it. Very comfortable to shoot. Ordered fiber-optic sights from Ruger. Good video, thank you.

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks, yeah I was very pleasantly surprised

[@pugilist102]

Thinking of picking one up today lol. Going to get rid of all my semi autos....maybe except my CZ 75.

[@alexrolon3505]

I bought my ruger gp 100 4" blue steel revolver back in April 2019 and 5 yrs later still works flawlessly..very good quality gun rite there 💯

[@crankygunreviews]

They’re excellent firearms

[@PerceptionVsReality333]

I bought the 6" stainless version 5 years ago to get the best ballistic performance through the longer barrel, lightning speed velocities & hits like a freight train. I've hit old car parts with 125 grain FMJ loads & they zap right through, from a safe distance of course.

[@crankygunreviews]

I’m still after a 6” barrel revolver, 357 or 38 or 44. Haven’t found one in my price range yet

[@tomsreviews238]

The cylinder on my new match champion rubbed the lower frame when opening and closing. I had to file down and polish the frame. to make clearance for the cylinder to close without hitting the frame. The match champion is supposed to be shimmed from the factory. There was only a single shim on the hammer and it looks like they used a smaller trigger sized shim. The hammer spring pushed the hammer tight against the left side of the frame. I had to install two proper sized .002" hammer shims in order to center the hammer. I had to file down the corners of the hammer serrations because they were razor sharp. The Match Champion is supposed to be a more refined version of the GP100. My Match Champ. made it out of the factory with many faults.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@tomsreviews238 that stinks… I know the match champions are supposed to be a lot better

[@naughtystep9856]

5:24 That was my comment upon seeing this for the first time. Thanks for the comparison!

[@crankygunreviews]

Lol. Yeah it’s a good club that happens to shoot bullets as well

[@ronaldbogucki796]

I acquired a GP100 357 mag 6" made some 30 yrs a go polish stainless and its is just fantastic more than expected. Very beefy fame solid tight revolver.

[@crankygunreviews]

They’re super tough and beefy

[@Blando7887]

i had a Ruger SP101 25 years ago, Ive always wanted a GP100. I’ll get around to it soon

[@crankygunreviews]

@@Blando7887 they’re great guns

[@danielpollard3969]

I have mine in a 22 lr.. I love mine.

[@crankygunreviews]

I have an SP101 in .357 and one in .22lr as well- both solid as a tank

[@gcwessell]

Nice Vid, I have one and have no idea why I decided to look for reviews, this thing is a good bang for the buck. We just use it for a fun gun to shoot at the range.

[@crankygunreviews]

It’s a very tough and reliable revolver

[@yellowboxster06]

I have a blued SP101 2.25” that shoots really well especially with magnum loads. I also have the stainless steel 4.2” GP100 in my collection. I used to own a mixture of S&Ws as well but I settled on Ruger as my best option. As you pointed out the S&W models tend to have smoother triggers, at least in the double action mode. I wouldn’t take issue with that but I would say, from my own shooting experience, I shoot the Ruger’s as well as any of my S&Ws.

[@crankygunreviews]

Thanks for your input. I agree, even though the triggers are vastly different, I can shoot my Rugers about as well as my Smiths.

[@jamesbriseno4705]

Just picked up 2 GP-100’s, 6” barrels, one stainless and one blued.

[@crankygunreviews]

Nice!

[@poppasmurf3453]

Good review of this gun. Videos like this can and do help people make decisions on which gun to purchase. You are correct in the sense that the Ruger seems "stronger" than a S&W, they are. I compete with a Ruger GP100 match champion. I own way more S&W revolvers than Ruger and in the competition world the S&W rules the roost. They have smoother triggers and can be "tuned" to provide a much lighter double action trigger. With that said, I choose the Ruger because it was easier for me to disassemble and maintain. My trigger is considerably lighter than it came from the factory but not as light and smooth as some of my fellow competitors S&W's. While my trigger may not be quite as nice, the upside is that I don't have near as many issues with my gun. The internals on the Ruger are much more user friendly for maintenance and "tweaking" than the S&W in my opinion. FYI, you can get spring kits for about $10 that can reduce the pull weight, just don't go too far or it won't be reliable for factory loads. As another commenter mentioned, fiber optic sights are a great addition to the pistol and you can get both front and rear. Thanks for posting the video.

[@crankygunreviews]

That’s why I do these videos, many of them I do in stuff I’ve never seen videos on. The Rugers are more utilitarian and heavy duty whereas the Smiths are more prestigious and will last a long time as well, but if you need a gun and a hammer the Ruger will def be your choice lol

[@1madmaxx80]

The reason the gp100 are bigger/heavier is because they are cast frames. Not forged frames like a S&W. I have the 6" blued gp100 and it's a great shooter! A bit nose heavy, but recoil is light IMHO. The SA trigger is about as good as you could expect from factory. My dad has a 686-3. I think it's better balanced, but the trigger isn't as nice as my Ruger. 👍👍

[@crankygunreviews]

The Ruger triggers feel different than Smiths- not bad just very different. I like both for various reasons

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Compare similar barrel length between the GP100 and 686, the weight difference isn't anything to talk about.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@exothermal.sprocket very good point

[@1madmaxx80]

@@exothermal.sprocket What kind of moron do you take me for? 🤣. They're both 6". The gp100 is simply heavier overall and not as well balanced as the 686. Did you think I was comparing it to a snubby?

[@1madmaxx80]

@@crankygunreviews The DA feels better on my dad's 686, but the SA on my gp100 is very nice 👌 Edit: I should say that I'm being extremely picky as they both have excellent triggers!

[@flyingwyoming5184]

Ruger's are without a doubt the best revolver. For autos Ill go S&W every time!!

[@crankygunreviews]

@@flyingwyoming5184 I still prefer S&W revolvers for nostalgia, history, and aesthetics, but I bet a GP100 would be as good or better than a Model 19 in a long term test

[@flyingwyoming5184]

@@crankygunreviews I get that!!

[@briancaine9130]

Great review, beautiful gun.

[@crankygunreviews]

Thank you!

[@jamesschneider3828]

I had one in the early 90’s same blued with 4 inch barrel but had the rubber inlay wood grips. I kick myself for trading it for. Benelli super 90 shotgun which I ended up hating. The new ones cost 3 times as much as my gp100

[@crankygunreviews]

@@jamesschneider3828 yeah this one was not too bad cause I got it before Covid if I recall, but still not cheap

[@brianbelliveau5551]

I have the 6 inch in stainless steel and it’s well worth the cost but I bought mine used but in very nice shape and it came with the box and paperwork

[@crankygunreviews]

The GP100’s are tanks, and all wel built to me

[@kylewood8327]

Nice pistol!

[@crankygunreviews]

Thank you very much

[@davidgreve2181]

that particular Ruger is one of the Best that's ever been made. the only impressive gun S&W makes today is the S&W 350, but that's a whole different gun altogether. Very heavy built. Ruger is the best.

[@crankygunreviews]

S&W still makes nice guns, but the prices are high, and I’ve been hearing more cases of breakages on revolvers. I had a 617 with a cracked frame, otherwise though I buy mostly vintage models, and they’re way better IMO. I do love my Rugers too though…

[@davidgreve2181]

@@crankygunreviews Ruger has the greatest customer service in that they will fix your weapon for free if any of them break. S&W does too.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@davidgreve2181 I agree I have had to use both of their customer service, Rugers was faster, but both fixed my guns free and they were great when I got them back.

[@kengray5793]

You need to compare this revolver to a Smith 686. I have both. The Smith locks up much tighter than any Ruger I’ve ever felt. Drop a Wilson spring kit in the 686 and the trigger changes from good to amazing. Plus no light strikes with any primer I’ve tried, even some I’ve purposefully loaded just a tad high to test reliability. The GP-100 is good, I’ve owned mine for over 20 years, but if I could only have one it would be the 686.

[@crankygunreviews]

I don’t have a 686. They are both good, I would probably take a smith over this if I could only have one as well. I love Smiths.

[@1madmaxx80]

If I could only have 1 revolver it would be a Manurhin MR 73. Of course I'd need to sell a kidney to buy it, but hey!

[@crankygunreviews]

@@1madmaxx80 yeah the Manhurins are exceptional like no other… TFB TV did a great video on them

[@exothermal.sprocket]

686 lockup might be tighter (tighter tolerances between cylinder stop and notches), but it's not as strong due to GP100 using a crank latch vs. S&W using the ejection rod catch. Newer S&W model 66 and 69 have added a detent between the crane and frame and eliminated the ejection rod latch, but the 686 series still runs the former design.

[@jackwoodd5075]

I'm not so sure about the comment that a 686 locks up tighter than a gp100. Not trying to be a troll but maybe yours is special. Of the many comparisons I've done between the 2 the nod always goes to the gp100.

[@thomastommy1192]

Awesome video thanks for sharing. I once heard a guy on KZbin say you can send the Ruger GP100s back to the Ruger Factory. And they will inspect them and replace or rebuild any parts that have worn out free of charge. Would you happen to know if this is true? I will look forward to your next video.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@thomastommy1192 you can call Ruger and ask, they do have lifetime warrantees and great service

[@francisgarner1751]

Sir please let me know if you know I want the Ruger GP 100 WITH A 3" BARREL MY DEALER CANNOT GET IT IN. ARE THEY STILL BEING MADE? LOOKING FOR IT 👍🏿

[@crankygunreviews]

I’m not sure- can’t say I have seen one

[@TisiphonesShadow]

I have a GP-100. I like shooting heavy (180gr) handloads, and the Ruger is tough enough to eat a regular diet of heavy 357Mag loads. The Ruger is MUCH more of a "combat" magnum than my 686.

[@crankygunreviews]

I agree, the Ruger is built like a tank, and made for steady diet of hot loaded .357

[@mr.horseshoe2301]

Thanks for the video. I’m looking to buy my very first revolver. If I may ask, what is your absolute favorite 357? I can only afford to buy one gun for now so I want the best. Thanks!

[@crankygunreviews]

Are you looking for a range gun, carry gun, or showpiece? Something’s that’s pretty or a utilitarian gun that will last a long time no matter what you do with it? My suggestion will change depending on your answer.

[@mr.horseshoe2301]

@@crankygunreviews A fun range gun to shoot that will last a long time.

[@Zona-dw9rp]

I would recommend the GP100, 4.25" barrel in stainless. Mine is blued carbon steel, but stainless is better. Ruger customer service is very good. Good luck with your decision, and happy shooting.

[@crankygunreviews]

A GP100 in either 4.25” or 6” would be great, or a Smith and Wesson 686- I’m more a sucker for vintage Smiths though, could get a Model 19

[@Timpala44]

I am either going to buy the 4.2 or 6 inch barrel GP100 in the blued finish. I'm not sure if the 6" would be barrel heavy though?

[@crankygunreviews]

Some guys say yes it’s more barrel heavy, but it’s worth it because the longer sight radius and longer barre make it more accurate… I’ve never shot the 6” one, I’m very happy with the 4.2”. If you’re using it for target shooting, or need the extra velocity then get the 6”. If you like more compact or want to carry it, get the 4.2”. But it’s really preference- hold them both, then make your mind up

[@totljag1]

Beautiful piece !

[@crankygunreviews]

Thank you!

[@MegaBait1616]

GP-100 Is built like a tank.....Although ya can't beat a S&W trigger.. be well.

[@crankygunreviews]

I agree on both points 👍

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Can't beat an LCR/x trigger. Hahaha

[@b4uspeek]

I have yet to see another like mine, blued 5” barrel, very nice.

[@thomasitta]

I just got me one last month, still never shot it yet.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@thomasitta well, what are you waiting for?

[@thomasitta]

@crankygunreviews still cold here in Alaska

[@russellkeeling4387]

The Ruger would be stronger than the S&W because it locks up in more than one place.

[@crankygunreviews]

Maybe. But I have a 1927 S&W hand ejector or Military and Police and it still locks up tight and is super smooth. I think the Ruger is heavier and tougher though

[@russellkeeling4387]

@@crankygunreviews The Ruger has no side plate on the frame and did not support Bill Clintons gun control actions like S&M did.

[@TheKCaryer]

eVEN though irons are obsolete, gotta love a good revolver.

[@crankygunreviews]

They’re not obsolete, they’re what anyone should start with get get proficient with firearms, and they’re the safety net when a red dot dies

[@wardatkins1320]

Hand cannon

[@crankygunreviews]

But a manageable one

[@PapiBandz]

I’d rather get this then a Glock right now

[@crankygunreviews]

Nothing wrong with that mindset-

[@clintwestwood1895]

Zombie apoc or end of days book of Eli scenario... GP100= gtg

[@crankygunreviews]

Agreed

[@bbaz6729]

The 4 inch barrel is a bad move. The revolver is already heavy, because it's all steel. The longer the barrel, the better the accuracy. A 6 inch barrel also mitigates the recoil because of the weight.

[@crankygunreviews]

The 4” barrel is plenty accurate, and it was what I could find when I was looking. It’s proportional too

[@bbaz6729]

@@crankygunreviews Try the 6 inch. You will find that the added weight of the barrel along with the length adds a great deal to accuracy and controllability.

[@crankygunreviews]

@@bbaz6729 love to, you want to donate one? They aren’t around me very often, I’ve been looking for a good 6” any revolver that’s under $1000 for a while… I don’t want to spend that much, except maybe on a S&W model 29

[@bbaz6729]

Look at "Grab a Gun". @@crankygunreviews

[@stephenbrock644]

[@crankygunreviews]

Not sure what that’s supposed to mean, but ok…