Why a Revolver, Like the Ruger SP101, is a Great First Gun
The Ruger SP101 is a series of revolvers that first saw production in 1989. They are made by the premiere gun maker Ruger, which has a long history of making high-quality revolvers, and guns, in general. It is a solid choice for concealed carry, personal defense, and even home defense.
CERTIFIED USED
The SP101 is built like a tank and will last more than a lifetime if properly cared for. (Photo: Ben Philippi/Guns.com)
The SP101 I borrowed for this review came from the Certified Used Gun Vault at Guns.com. Even though it was used, it arrived in excellent condition. Revolvers made by premiere companies like Ruger stand up very well to use. They're well built with high-quality metals. This makes them excellent options when it comes to buying used guns.
SPECS
This particular model is chambered in .38 Special only. (Photo: Ben Philippi/Guns.com)
Although SP101s are available in a wide variety of calibers, sizes, and round capacities, this model is chambered in .38 Special only. It holds five rounds. It weighs 25.5 ounces unloaded. The barrel measures 2.25 inches long. It measures 5.5 inches high and 1.25 inches wide.
When used with good-quality ammunition, revolvers tend to be very reliable. They're also very easy to use and clean. This can make them an excellent option for new gun owners.
SNAG FREE
An exposed hammer allows you to shoot the revolver in single action mode, which is a lot of fun at the range. (Photo: Ben Philippi/Guns.com)
The SP101 series of revolvers were designed to be carried. As a result, all of the edges have been rounded to avoid getting hung up on clothing. This includes the exposed hammer. What’s nice about having an exposed hammer is that the revolver can be fired in single action at the range. It's easy to achieve good accuracy in single action because the trigger is very crisp.
DOUBLE ACTION
Practice is important to achieve good accuracy when firing in double action. (Photo: Ben Philippi/Guns.com)
Firing the revolver in double action is a different story. The trigger is long and requires a fair amount of pressure to pull. Practice is very important to achieve good accuracy. Bear in mind, with its 2.25-inch barrel, the SP101 is ideally suited for self-defense distances of approximately 10 yards. The SP101 also does not have an external safety. The trigger is the safety.
BUILT LIKE A TANK
Good quality revolvers such as the Ruger SP101 hold their value very well. (Photo: Ben Philippi/Guns.com)
Without a doubt, Ruger SP101 revolvers are built like tanks. If taken care of, they will last a very long time. They also hold their value very well. As a result, you could purchase this revolver and use it for many years. And, as long as you take care of it and clean, it's likely you'd be able to sell it down the road for what you paid for it, or possibly even more.