Do I Really Need a Ruger GP-100 ??

Southern Shooter · September 18, 2012, 08:48 AM

A number of my range friends are shooting fairly recent production Ruger GP-100 revolvers. Some of them have the 3" barrel, some the 4" barrel, and of course some of have the 6" barrel guns.

I am the odd-man-out. I don't have a GP-100, at all. There are days they really drive me about shooting "older" and "less stout" guns and encourage me to buy a GP-100.

What I have are:
**3 Ruger Speed-Six .357 Magnum with the 2 3/4" barrels
**1 Ruger Security-Six .357 Magnum with the 4" barrel
**1 Dan Wesson Model 15-2 in .357 Magnum with the 4" and 6" barrels (Monson era production)

All 5 of these revolvers were manufactured between 1979-1983.

There are small amounts of wear marks (a small scratch, blue wear, tiny dink) on the guns. But, mechanically, I don't think that you could find a brand new gun any more sound. And, the triggers are sweet.

Is there any need to invest a load of cash in another revolver to keep up with the Jones? Or, should I just stay odd-man-out?

Thanks

CajunBass · September 18, 2012, 08:56 AM

To my way of thinking, you've already got the better guns. I never did warm up to the GP 100. Never wanted one, never will.

The Speed/Security Sixes on the other hand are among the best 38/357's ever made. And I'm a Smith & Wesson guy. The Dan Wesson's leave nothing on the table either.

Get a GP 100 if YOU want one. Don't let someone else spend your money for you.

bcarver · September 18, 2012, 08:57 AM

absolutely not. But I would sell the dan wesson and get a 6" gp100.

Stressfire · September 18, 2012, 08:57 AM

If it won't break the bank, why not?

As for stoutness, it's got that in spades. Seriously built like a tank, but with a profile like one as well.

Still, I like mine - but it is my sole revolver at this time

baddarryl · September 18, 2012, 08:59 AM

I got a nice blued one with the older panel grips last year for $400. My answer? Heck ya!

hulley · September 18, 2012, 09:08 AM

I would say yes, get the GP100. I mean really, can someone have too many revolvers?

Bob Wright · September 18, 2012, 09:09 AM

Compare targets. It's all about what happens downrange that counts.

Stout? Your guns blow up? Frames stretched?

Stick with your guns. Unless, of course, you feel the need for a new gun!

Bob Wright

Southern Shooter · September 18, 2012, 09:24 AM

The guns are all in good condition. No stretch, slop, etc.

Down range? The 2 3/4" barreled Speed-Sixes can put full-load 158 grain bullets in a 5" group, double-action, standing non-supported, at 25 yards. Nothing to write home about but ok.

The Dan Wesson, single-action, standing non-supported, groups at 2 1/2" from 25 yards.

smokin54 · September 18, 2012, 09:25 AM

I had a Gp100 , it was a good shooter and i sold it . no regrets . I have some quality 357s so its not missed .

lee n. field · September 18, 2012, 09:36 AM

Quote:

What I have are:
**3 Ruger Speed-Six .357 Magnum with the 2 3/4" barrels
**1 Ruger Security-Six .357 Magnum with the 4" barrel
**1 Dan Wesson Model 15-2 in .357 Magnum with the 4" and 6" barrels (Monson era production)

Do I Really Need a Ruger GP-100 ??

No. You're covered.

Revoliver · September 18, 2012, 09:48 AM

As a GP100 lover and believer, I don't believe you need one. But that shouldn't stop you from getting one if you want a revolver that you can have no fear of thrashing as it is a tank and still in production if worse came to worse.

Billy Shears · September 18, 2012, 10:17 AM

I'll give my two cents worth...

It is my opinion that:

a) The GP100 is a fine revolver just as mentioned above. I really enjoy shooting mine.

b) But so is the Security Six. Nothing at all wrong with it. I actually prefer the feel of the Six over the GP; and

c) The GP100, for all it's other attributes, is too large and heavy for comfortable use or carry. If you already have a couple of very nice .357s and you're looking for something that bulky and heavy to shoot, why not buy a S&W 29 and do it in .44 Magnum? Again, just my personal opinion, but a gun's weight and bulk should match the caliber it shoots. I think the GP is on the heavy/bulky end of the spectrum for a .357.

SRH78 · September 18, 2012, 10:19 AM

I am assuming you have shot one so the question is, do you want one? if you want one, you need one. If you don't, you don't.

I have a 6" and love it. Imo, they are very good guns that are stout and make shootings full house magnum loads very comfortable. However, there is obviously nothing wrong with the guns you already have.

MrBorland · September 18, 2012, 10:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bob Wright

Compare targets. It's all about what happens downrange that counts.

I tend to agree with Bob, but depending on your needs/wants, with 2 possible caveats:

First, the GP's interchangeable front sight is a nice feature that allows one to change the front sight in seconds if you want or need to.

Second, if you ever get the itch to check out a local IDPA/ICORE/USPSA match, the GP100 would be the better choice, as there are good speedloader options available. The position of the DW's cylinder release would also make for a very awkward reload.

Cheapshooter · September 18, 2012, 10:27 AM

Of course you need a GP 100. the proof of your necessity for one is in the list you posted. You don't have one, so there is an obvious need! You should get one ASAP!!!

Sigep538 · September 18, 2012, 10:35 AM

Your Dan Wesson is just as strong as th GP. I like both and from a strength stand point the point is null.

Southern Shooter · September 18, 2012, 11:24 AM

Quote:

threedogdad--
If you already have a couple of very nice .357s and you're looking for something that bulky and heavy to shoot, why not buy a S&W 29 and do it in .44 Magnum?

I have that covered with my Ruger SRH Alaskan .454 Casull and 360 grain cast bullets. And, I can replace the Tamer Grip that comes on it with the GP-100 grips.

aarondhgraham · September 18, 2012, 11:30 AM

Are you looking for an excuse?,,,

Quote:

Is there any need to invest a load of cash in another revolver to keep up with the Jones?

There is no need,,,
Only desire.

Get it if you want it my friend,,,
Don't if you feel you don't really need it.

But acting as the Great Enabler,,,
I say a man can't own too many good revolvers.

Aarond

.

Southern Shooter · September 18, 2012, 11:39 AM

I will say one thing, the Speed-Six is a great blend of weight, balance, power, and concealability. At only 5' 6", with a good pancake holster and the original wooden grips I can easily carry concealed. It is actually comfortable to wear all day.

skidder · September 18, 2012, 01:08 PM

Southern Shooter-- I've been mulling around a similar scenario in my head (I have 3 Sixes). I have an opportunity to trade my 6" Six for a 6" GP, but my cold feet won't take the step. My 6" Six is 8 oz lighter and keeps a nice group.

If you have the money, and don't need to sell/trade to get one? Go for it!

Southern Shooter · September 18, 2012, 01:24 PM

I have become very fond of these guns. I like the other guns in the house. But, I feel very attached to the Six Series and the Dan Wesson. They are kind of like pieces of a by-gone era that is slowly fading away. The longer I have these guns the more unique they become.

I think what I will be doing is the same process as I used to acquire these fine revolvers...start saving up the money and when a used but cared for GP-100 presents itself be ready to hand over the cash. Just be patient and wait for the opportunity to arise.

Super Sneaky Steve · September 18, 2012, 03:14 PM

You aren't a real man unless you own a GP100.

Hammerhead · September 18, 2012, 03:33 PM

Need? No.
One thing I like about my GP100 is the improved trigger over the Speed/Security Sixes. There's no 'hump' in the middle of the GP100's DA trigger pull like there is with the SS models. My DA shooting is better with the GP than it was with my S&W model 10 or Security Six.
Full power loads are easier in recoil as well.
Current GP quality is very impressive.

rclark · September 18, 2012, 05:10 PM

Nope!

But I would suggest getting a .357 Ruger Blackhawk instead... Or move up from the peanut caliber to a .45 Colt Blackhawk

. There is nothing wrong with being the odd man out!

.45 Vet · September 18, 2012, 05:32 PM

I bought my 6" Security Six in 78. Got a SP 101 in 95, and a 4" GP in 2004. I like being the "Odd Guy" at the range, everyone else is into Glocks...

I still prefer the trigger on the Six, a spring kit and some 20 odd thousand rounds have it pretty well limbered up. I also fell into a Blackhawk in .45 Colt in 95. Them big holes always bring a smile to my face.

You may not need a GP-100, but there's nothing wrong with wanting another revolver...

September 18, 2012, 08:48 AM	#1
Southern Shooter Senior Member Join Date: May 4, 2005 Location: central Louisiana Posts: 469	Do I Really Need a Ruger GP-100 ?? A number of my range friends are shooting fairly recent production Ruger GP-100 revolvers. Some of them have the 3" barrel, some the 4" barrel, and of course some of have the 6" barrel guns. I am the odd-man-out. I don't have a GP-100, at all. There are days they really drive me about shooting "older" and "less stout" guns and encourage me to buy a GP-100. What I have are: 3 Ruger Speed-Six .357 Magnum with the 2 3/4" barrels 1 Ruger Security-Six .357 Magnum with the 4" barrel *1 Dan Wesson Model 15-2 in .357 Magnum with the 4" and 6" barrels (Monson era production) All 5 of these revolvers were manufactured between 1979-1983. There are small amounts of wear marks (a small scratch, blue wear, tiny dink) on the guns. But, mechanically, I don't think that you could find a brand new gun any more sound. And, the triggers are sweet. Is there any need to invest a load of cash in another revolver to keep up with the Jones? Or, should I just stay odd-man-out? Thanks __________________ "My plea is that we stop seeking out the storm and enjoy more fully sunlight. I am suggesting that as we go through life we accentuate the positive. I am asking that we look a little deeper for the good, that we still our voices of insult and sarcasm, that we more generously compliment and endorse virtue and effort." Gordon B. Hinckley Last edited by Southern Shooter; September 18, 2012 at 08:53 AM.*

September 18, 2012, 08:56 AM	#2
CajunBass Senior Member Join Date: May 6, 2005 Location: North Chesterfield, Virginia Posts: 4,767	To my way of thinking, you've already got the better guns. I never did warm up to the GP 100. Never wanted one, never will. The Speed/Security Sixes on the other hand are among the best 38/357's ever made. And I'm a Smith & Wesson guy. The Dan Wesson's leave nothing on the table either. Get a GP 100 if YOU want one. Don't let someone else spend your money for you. __________________ For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 (NKJV)

September 18, 2012, 08:57 AM	#3
bcarver Senior Member Join Date: February 22, 2007 Location: Jackson,Mississippi Posts: 838	nope absolutely not. But I would sell the dan wesson and get a 6" gp100.

September 18, 2012, 08:57 AM	#4
Stressfire Senior Member Join Date: June 16, 2011 Location: Ohio Posts: 1,497	If it won't break the bank, why not? As for stoutness, it's got that in spades. Seriously built like a tank, but with a profile like one as well. Still, I like mine - but it is my sole revolver at this time __________________ "The best diplomat I know is a fully charged phaser bank" - Montgomery Scott

September 18, 2012, 09:08 AM	#6
hulley Senior Member Join Date: November 9, 2008 Location: Hoschton, Ga. Posts: 726	I would say yes, get the GP100. I mean really, can someone have too many revolvers? __________________ Nov 2, 2011 sent form 4, SS Sparrow. Arrived May 29, 2012. Jan 30, 2012 sent form 1 for SBR. Arrived July 12, 2012 Jan 22, 2013 Sent form 4, 762-SDN-6. Arrived Sept 13, 2013

September 18, 2012, 08:59 AM	#5
baddarryl Senior Member Join Date: March 29, 2011 Location: Cape Fear! Posts: 1,683	I got a nice blued one with the older panel grips last year for $400. My answer? Heck ya!

September 18, 2012, 09:09 AM	#7
Bob Wright Senior Member Join Date: July 10, 2012 Location: Memphis, Tennessee Posts: 2,989	Compare targets. It's all about what happens downrange that counts. Stout? Your guns blow up? Frames stretched? Stick with your guns. Unless, of course, you feel the need for a new gun! Bob Wright

September 18, 2012, 09:24 AM	#8
Southern Shooter Senior Member Join Date: May 4, 2005 Location: central Louisiana Posts: 469	Gun Condition and Down Range The guns are all in good condition. No stretch, slop, etc. Down range? The 2 3/4" barreled Speed-Sixes can put full-load 158 grain bullets in a 5" group, double-action, standing non-supported, at 25 yards. Nothing to write home about but ok. The Dan Wesson, single-action, standing non-supported, groups at 2 1/2" from 25 yards. __________________ "My plea is that we stop seeking out the storm and enjoy more fully sunlight. I am suggesting that as we go through life we accentuate the positive. I am asking that we look a little deeper for the good, that we still our voices of insult and sarcasm, that we more generously compliment and endorse virtue and effort." Gordon B. Hinckley

September 18, 2012, 09:25 AM	#9
smokin54 Senior Member Join Date: January 7, 2005 Posts: 193	I had a Gp100 , it was a good shooter and i sold it . no regrets . I have some quality 357s so its not missed .

September 18, 2012, 09:48 AM	#11
Revoliver Member Join Date: September 4, 2012 Location: USofA Posts: 80	As a GP100 lover and believer, I don't believe you need one. But that shouldn't stop you from getting one if you want a revolver that you can have no fear of thrashing as it is a tank and still in production if worse came to worse.

September 18, 2012, 10:17 AM	#12
Billy Shears Senior Member Join Date: January 17, 2011 Posts: 606	I'll give my two cents worth... It is my opinion that: a) The GP100 is a fine revolver just as mentioned above. I really enjoy shooting mine. b) But so is the Security Six. Nothing at all wrong with it. I actually prefer the feel of the Six over the GP; and c) The GP100, for all it's other attributes, is too large and heavy for comfortable use or carry. If you already have a couple of very nice .357s and you're looking for something that bulky and heavy to shoot, why not buy a S&W 29 and do it in .44 Magnum? Again, just my personal opinion, but a gun's weight and bulk should match the caliber it shoots. I think the GP is on the heavy/bulky end of the spectrum for a .357.

September 18, 2012, 10:19 AM	#13
SRH78 Senior Member Join Date: April 18, 2011 Location: Texas Posts: 517	I am assuming you have shot one so the question is, do you want one? if you want one, you need one. If you don't, you don't. I have a 6" and love it. Imo, they are very good guns that are stout and make shootings full house magnum loads very comfortable. However, there is obviously nothing wrong with the guns you already have. __________________ "Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety." - Benjamin Franklin

September 18, 2012, 10:27 AM	#15
Cheapshooter Senior Member Join Date: December 2, 2007 Location: Missouri Posts: 8,306	Of course you need a GP 100. the proof of your necessity for one is in the list you posted. You don't have one, so there is an obvious need! You should get one ASAP!!! __________________ Cheapshooter's rules of gun ownership #1: NEVER SELL OR TRADE ANYTHING!

September 18, 2012, 10:35 AM	#16
Sigep538 Member Join Date: July 15, 2012 Location: Little Rock, Ar Posts: 21	Your Dan Wesson is just as strong as th GP. I like both and from a strength stand point the point is null.

September 18, 2012, 11:39 AM	#19
Southern Shooter Senior Member Join Date: May 4, 2005 Location: central Louisiana Posts: 469	Speed-Six and Concealed Carry I will say one thing, the Speed-Six is a great blend of weight, balance, power, and concealability. At only 5' 6", with a good pancake holster and the original wooden grips I can easily carry concealed. It is actually comfortable to wear all day. __________________ "My plea is that we stop seeking out the storm and enjoy more fully sunlight. I am suggesting that as we go through life we accentuate the positive. I am asking that we look a little deeper for the good, that we still our voices of insult and sarcasm, that we more generously compliment and endorse virtue and effort." Gordon B. Hinckley Last edited by Southern Shooter; September 18, 2012 at 11:46 AM.

September 18, 2012, 01:08 PM	#20
skidder Senior Member Join Date: August 17, 2008 Location: Montana Posts: 640	Southern Shooter-- I've been mulling around a similar scenario in my head (I have 3 Sixes). I have an opportunity to trade my 6" Six for a 6" GP, but my cold feet won't take the step. My 6" Six is 8 oz lighter and keeps a nice group. If you have the money, and don't need to sell/trade to get one? Go for it! __________________ Gun permit?? A bread crumb tossed to a sleeping society awoken by the sound of complacency. "They are for your own good", and "you will understand when you see all the lives they save". Yes master, what else will you toss me from your bag of infringements?? Do you want me to roll over and play dead? I do that very well. --skidder

September 18, 2012, 01:24 PM	#21
Southern Shooter Senior Member Join Date: May 4, 2005 Location: central Louisiana Posts: 469	Very Fond I have become very fond of these guns. I like the other guns in the house. But, I feel very attached to the Six Series and the Dan Wesson. They are kind of like pieces of a by-gone era that is slowly fading away. The longer I have these guns the more unique they become. I think what I will be doing is the same process as I used to acquire these fine revolvers...start saving up the money and when a used but cared for GP-100 presents itself be ready to hand over the cash. Just be patient and wait for the opportunity to arise. __________________ "My plea is that we stop seeking out the storm and enjoy more fully sunlight. I am suggesting that as we go through life we accentuate the positive. I am asking that we look a little deeper for the good, that we still our voices of insult and sarcasm, that we more generously compliment and endorse virtue and effort." Gordon B. Hinckley

September 18, 2012, 03:14 PM	#22
Super Sneaky Steve Senior Member Join Date: August 9, 2011 Posts: 1,250	You aren't a real man unless you own a GP100.

September 18, 2012, 03:33 PM	#23
Hammerhead Senior Member Join Date: May 31, 2004 Location: Minnesota Posts: 2,432	Need? No. One thing I like about my GP100 is the improved trigger over the Speed/Security Sixes. There's no 'hump' in the middle of the GP100's DA trigger pull like there is with the SS models. My DA shooting is better with the GP than it was with my S&W model 10 or Security Six. Full power loads are easier in recoil as well. Current GP quality is very impressive.

September 18, 2012, 05:10 PM	#24
rclark Senior Member Join Date: February 12, 2009 Location: Butte, MT Posts: 2,622	Nope! But I would suggest getting a .357 Ruger Blackhawk instead... Or move up from the peanut caliber to a .45 Colt Blackhawk . There is nothing wrong with being the odd man out! __________________ A clinger and deplorable, MAGA, and life NRA member. When guns are outlawed, only outlaws will have guns. Single Action .45 Colt (Sometimes colloquially referred to by its alias as the .45 'Long' Colt or .45LC). Don't leave home without it. That said, the .44Spec is right up their too... but the .45 Colt is still the king.

September 18, 2012, 05:32 PM	#25
.45 Vet Senior Member Join Date: May 21, 2004 Location: Western Penn. Posts: 387	I bought my 6" Security Six in 78. Got a SP 101 in 95, and a 4" GP in 2004. I like being the "Odd Guy" at the range, everyone else is into Glocks... I still prefer the trigger on the Six, a spring kit and some 20 odd thousand rounds have it pretty well limbered up. I also fell into a Blackhawk in .45 Colt in 95. Them big holes always bring a smile to my face. You may not need a GP-100, but there's nothing wrong with wanting another revolver... __________________ For those who've never fought for it, the price of freedom shall never be known...