Ruger SP101 with 3” barrel versus 4” barrel

[Deleted member 57487]

Just wondering people’s thoughts between the barrel lengths. I have the 3” model but I’m considering trading for the 4” model. I found that I don’t cc my 3” often as I use a Glock most of the time. I suppose the 4” is a woods gun but if do trade I’m putting the Crimson Trace grips on it. So... die hard revolver guy and I know ODTers have more collective knowledge (opinions too) than anywhere.

Is the 4” that much more difficult to cc? Good holster choices?

Are the adjustable sights reliable or replaceable? Not a fiber optic fan. Thanks for any input!

 

[Bagman]

I think the 3" is the best all around choice. I have the 2 1/4" and would much prefer the 3".

 

[Deleted member 57487]

I had the 2 1/4” spurless and went with 3”... It points great, shoots great. Guess that’s why we have choices! Freedom is good.

 

[inkandammo]

I've had both and I carried the 3" some but the 4.2" only saw range time. The adj sights should withstand carry, not so positive about the FO front.

 

[Deleted member 57487]

I've had both and I carried the 3" some but the 4.2" only saw range time. The adj sights should withstand carry, not so positive about the FO front.

Thanks for the input!

 

[Deleted member 57487]

Love the 3" but wish there was a Ruger and Smith-Wesson "marriage" between the 3" Model 60 and 4" SP-101 as to produce the, so called, perfect 3" mid-size caliber revolver

4" 101 is a whisker too long but has adjustable rear sight.
3" 101 is my favorite length but has antique trough rear site, non adjustable.

S&W model 60 3" has nice adj rear site, slightly more-refined frame (than SP101) but less ergonomic cylinder release and harder to adjust/polish trigger (vs SP101)

That would be novel concept. You would think on option like that would’ve appealed to the most people.

 

[GTSteve03]

Had a 3" and 2 1/4" SP101, much preferred the 3". Never had a 4", but I think I'd still prefer the 3" just for overall balance.

Now, I believe the absolute best 3" revolver had the be the S&W 66 K-frame. Stainless, adjustable sights, and 6 shots.