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

1720 Cap And Ball Revolver
1720 Cap And Ball Revolver

Caring For & Feeding Your Cap-and-Ball Revolvers

Compared to pistoleros of the 19th century, today’s handgunners have it easy. It's not enough just to get an old-school, cap-and-ball revolver. You also need to acquire everything to shoot and clean it.

Lighter & Better: Savage’s Updated Ultralite Series of Rifles

Savage Arms kicked off 2026 by announcing a new generation of Model 110 bolt-action rifles, and now, the company has also introduced an updated series of Ultralite rifles.

Gun of the Week: Franchi Momentum Elite MULE

One of the latest entrants into the general-utility rifle market is Franchi with its Momentum Utility Lite Elite bolt-action rifle, also known as the MULE.

The Armed Citizen® Sept. 11, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Have .22 LR Handguns Finally Become Viable Options for Self-Defense?

Although .22 LR pistols and revolvers are plentiful and affordable, they still have notable limitations when it comes to self-defense applications. 

Aero Precision Returns with New Owners

An investment group comprised of family members passionate about firearms and the outdoor sports has purchased Aero Precision, Ballistic Advantage, Stag Arms and VG6.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.