NRA Gun of the Week: Ruger SP101 Double-Action Revolver

by
posted on August 20, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

The Ruger SP101 is a double-action revolver derived from the popular GP100 platform. It features a triple-locking cylinder—an attribute of guns intended for higher pressure cartridges—a transfer bar safety mechanism and a firing pin mounted within the frame. What makes this particular revolver so unique is its chambering—.327 Fed. Mag. Unlike its .357 Mag. counterparts, a .32-cal. bore and cylinder allowed Ruger to squeeze an additional round into the gun, raising its capacity to six rounds. Additionally, its chambering makes this gun capable of firing a handful of other cartridge types. Watch this week's "NRA Gun of the Week" video to learn more about that special feature and much more.

For more, visit ruger.com.

Model: SP101
Manufacturer: Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc.
Chambering: .327 Federal Mag.
Action Type: double-action, center-fire revolver
Frame: stainless steel
Finish: satin
Sights: adjustable rear, fiber-optic post front
Stocks: black rubber, engraved wood panels
Cylinder Capacity: six
Trigger: double-action, 8-lb, 8-oz. pull; single-action, 2-lb., 4-oz. pull
Barrel Length: 4.2”
Weight: 29.5 ozs.
Overall Length: 9.12”
MSRP: $769

Additional Reading:
The Return of the Ruger SP101 .327 Fed. Mag.
5 Ruger Revolvers We’re Ready For
Magnum Maximization

Latest

Mossberg 990 Aftershock Rr 1
Mossberg 990 Aftershock Rr 1

Rifleman Review: Mossberg 990 Aftershock

In 2025, Mossberg added to the non-NFA, shotshell-firing firearm category with its 990 Aftershock, which uses a semi-automatic operating mechanism while still maintaining a compact form factor.

Next-Gen Micro Red-Dot: The Steiner MPS 2.0

Steiner Optics has introduced the next-generation version of its Micro Pistol Sight, a red-dot optic that first hit the market in 2021.

Rifleman Interview: Banish Suppressors

The “Plinkapalooza” event in May saw a rimfire extravaganza, with hearing protection from Banish suppressors.

Hunting for the “Grail” Gun in the Modern Era

To really enjoy hunting for “that gun,” burn shoe leather instead of your mouse pad.

5 New Rimfire Suppressors for 2026

Generally speaking, rimfire suppressors tend to be less-expensive than their centerfire counterparts, providing an entry point in the world of suppressor use for many firearm enthusiasts.

Top Firearm Manufacturers Estimated from ATF Report

Orchid analyzed the ATF’s Annual Firearms Manufacturing and Exportation Report for 2024 (the most recent data available) and compiled a list of the industry’s top 30 domestic firearms manufacturers.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.