The Ruger SP-101 defies the odds. At a stout 26 ounce, this little stainless steel subcompact revolver remains a huge seller for Ruger and very popular with all types of dudes. Compared against much lighter weight alternatives like the Ruger LCR, SW Centennial, Bodyguard, or Scandium framed J-frames, the SP-101 is a portly CCW carry companion. And yet it prevails and sells. Many responsible civilians, LEOs, homeowners, and outdoorsman opt for the little SP-101 as their first choice. To hold and shoot the SP-101 is to begin to undersand why. First, its heft provides what I feel is a certain shootability is such a small form factor. If you haven't done it recently, find opportunity to do a reality check in shooting a .357 load in a subcompact revolver. The word "unpleasant" comes to mind for most with the Scandium framed S&Ws being tortuous in nature. But the 26 ounce SP-101, while still no full size or heavy gun, does manage to tame these loads to controllable and for some (like masochists like myself) even enjoyable levels (which to me opens up recreational shooting opportunities in this small gun). For many, like myself, the SP-101 is enjoyable to shoot but all will understand in practice that it is difficult to shoot well at distance. But with .357 full power loads, it is a hand cannon which barks and spits fire with authority. Maybe now we can understand its appeal. And more importantly, this little cannon is built tough and rugged, able to withstand such battering throughout its (and YOUR!) lifetime. Utilizing a cylinder crane locking pawl, a thicker frame and permissible barrel lug is realized and the SP-101 achieves amazing strength for its size. While other lighweight .357s might end up in the parts bag, the Ruger will still be chugging along. So in the estimation of thousands, the Ruger SP-101's weight is good weight. Does it make the best concealed carry choice for most though? Probably not as many will stop carrying it after some time (but many do) and many better choices abound. Also many will be satisfied with the quality of the Ruger. Fit and finish of the Ruger is adequate albeit not as good as Smith and Wesson. Consider it serviceable. Several models are offered with 2.25" and 3.06" barrel options. A few downsides: sharp edges do exist [hammer, trigger] and should be addressed by the user, firepower is limited (5 rds .38/.357, 6 rds .327 Federal), and trigger is stiff on most examples [responding nicely to competent work however]. But in this relatively high value revolver the upsides prevail (and thats why I am recommending it!): decent sight picture, ergonomic grips (easily swapped out with the stud frame design of the SP-101), accurate, and compact. So as a truck gun, home defense option, or just wilderness companion (if you system can accept the weight), the Ruger SP-101 has excelled since 1989. It is an authoritative little .357 that can last forever. /////////////////////////// Nutnfancy LIkability Scale : 8.5 out of 10 ////////////// Music by Torly Wong, torley.com/. /////////////////////////////// Some images from PhotoBucket.com whose posters have agreed to royalty-free worldwide distribution through unqualified agreement to Photobucket.com Terms of Use.
31 дек 2009
