Hand-Picked Daily GUN DEALS, and Exclusive Coupons Codes >>>
We review products independently. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission to help support our testing. Learn more.
Ruger SP101 3-inch ruger sp101
Ruger SP101 3-inch ruger sp101
  • Durable & dependable
  • Price
  • Easy to conceal
  • Heavier than the competition
  • Poor finish
  • Mediocre sights
Editor’s Note:

The Ruger SP101 is a small-frame revolver with magnum capability. Although geared toward concealed carry, the SP101 is overbuilt to handle a steady diet of heavy magnum loads. It does this by utilizing a triple-locking cylinder, solid sidewalls, and a thick frame. Low-profile sights, a smooth double action, and a crisp single action elevate this revolver even further. A transfer bar mechanism ensures safety against accidental discharge. Overall, the SP101 is a well-built revolver that users can rely on in any situation.

Read full review

Ruger SP101 For Sale - Compare Prices

Ammunition Depot
Available Coupons
AR15 Discounts
Grab A Gun
OpticsPlanet Save $31
$204.95
$234.99
Palmetto State Armory Save $233
$660.99
$893.99
Classic Firearms
Kygunco
Firearms Depot
Sportsmans Guide
Brownells
Sportsmans Warehouse
Primary Arms
Guns.com Save $48
Daniel Defense
Rainier Arms
Berelli
Aero Precision
BattleHawk Armory
Buds Gun Shop

Ruger SP101 Specs

Action
Double Action Only / Double/Single Action
Barrel Length
2.3in / 4.2in
Magazine Capacity
5rd
Magazine Included
No / Yes
Magazine Type
Fixed / Removable
Caliber
357 Mag / 357 Mag - 38 Special / 38 Special +P / 9mm Luger
Finish
Blue / Stainless
Overall Length
7.2in / 8in / 9.1in
Muzzle
Non-Threaded
Stock Material
Polymer
Weight
25-30oz
Price
$549.99

Ruger SP101 Features

5-shot .357 Magnum cylinder
Cushioned rubber grip
Triple-locking cylinder
Transfer bar safety
Solid-steel sidewalls

By The Numbers - Ruger SP101

Accuracy
This is tough to rate. Up close this gun is as deadly as a blind berserker, slaying anything with ease though distance takes a lot more effort on the part of the shooter.
Reliability
Built like a tank, runs like a top.
Customization
About the only thing I would consider upgrading on this gun is the sights.
Ergonomics
This gun is small but it is designed that way for portability and concealability. Sacrifices were made in ergonomics, but not to the extent where accuracy is affected.

Hands-On Reviews & Related Post

Ruger SP101 Variations & Comparables

3.5
Kimber K6s
VIEW DETAILS

Kimber K6s

$889.99

“Kimber did an awesome job with this revolver. Aesthetically it’s appealing and eye-catching. The controls are easy to manipulate, the trigger is beautifully smooth, and the gun feels good in my hands. The biggest downside is the need for speedloaders because they are not easy to find.” — Kat Stevens

Read More
4
Colt King Cobra
VIEW DETAILS

Colt King Cobra

$779.99

The King Cobra is Colt’s revival of the medium-framed magnum revolver from their older “snake gun” lineup. While it may be a fairly standard 6-shot, 3-inch barreled revolver, it comes in at a price point similar to that of its competitors. This means you get the name value that comes with owning a Colt product without having to pay a premium for it.

Read More
4.3
(1 rating)
Smith & Wesson 686 Plus
VIEW DETAILS

Smith & Wesson 686 Plus

$813.99

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus is our go-to recommendation if you’re looking for a first revolver. Reliable, takes both .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds, soaks up the recoil, and looks great to boot!

Read More

Ruger SP101 Upgrades & Accessories

final verdict

“Overall, the Ruger SP101 is a great concealable revolver that’s reliable, beautiful, and built like a tank, but with mediocre sights that leads to only close-up encounters and a higher than average price tag that maybe better spent on newer pistols. But, and this is a great big “but,” this pistol is dependable and pretty easy to conceal.”  – Sean Curtis

Video Review of Ruger SP101

Community reviews

There are no reviews for this product yet.

Add your own rating and help other Pew Pew users pick the right guns

Join the community! Log in
Please provide a valid email address.
Password is required.
or
Register
Please provide a valid display name.
Please provide a valid email address.
The password should contain at least 8 characters with at least one number or special character.
Please accept in order to continue.
By unsubscribing, you will not be able to access exclusive training courses in your profile. You will still be able to save and access your products and articles.
or
Trouble logging in?
Type your email address and we’ll send you a link to reset your password.
Please provide a valid email.
Password
Type your new password and hit button below to confirm it.
Field is required.
Account already exists
We already have an account registered for email address () which is linked to your Facebook account.
To log in type your Pew Pew Meter password below.
Field is required.
Account already exists
We noticed that you have previously logged in with your Account which is linked to the same email address () - we can link both of your accounts together.
In order to link your accounts, hit button below and log in to your Account with the same email as above.

Account in Pew Pew Tactical means more.

Login or create a free account to get the following
Access and save hundreds of reviews, gun guides, and articles!
Find the best daily deals on guns, gear, and ammo
Manage your newsletter subscriptions and comments