Background and Specifications
The air crackles with anticipation. The scent of gun oil and anticipation hangs thick, a familiar cocktail for those who appreciate the art and engineering of firearms. Today, we delve into the world of the Ruger GP100, a name synonymous with durability and reliability in the revolver world. Our specific focus: the seven-shot iteration of this iconic handgun. This Ruger GP100 7 Shot Review will take you through every aspect of this robust revolver, from its rugged construction to its performance at the range, offering a comprehensive assessment for anyone considering adding this workhorse to their collection.
From its inception, the Ruger GP100 series has built a reputation for being a true champion of revolver design. It wasn’t just about following trends; it was about forging its own path, built on a foundation of strength and innovation. It arrived on the scene as a competitor to the Smith & Wesson K-Frame revolvers but ultimately surpassed them in terms of robustness, thanks to its innovative frame design. Ruger’s commitment to a solid build meant that the GP100 quickly earned the trust of law enforcement and civilian shooters alike. The core philosophy was simple: design a handgun that could withstand years of hard use and deliver consistent performance. The seven-shot variant is a testament to this enduring principle.
Diving into the specifics, let’s examine the heart of this handgun. The GP100 7 Shot isn’t merely a resized version of its six-shot siblings. It’s a carefully engineered evolution of a proven platform. The increased capacity is a significant advantage, especially for self-defense scenarios or competitive shooting. Having that extra round without any real trade-offs is a definite boon. This added capacity, coupled with the Ruger’s overall construction, makes it a compelling option in a crowded marketplace.
Examining the Foundation of Steel
The frame of the GP100 is a defining characteristic. Crafted from rugged steel, it’s built to absorb the stresses of repeated firing. This solid construction contributes significantly to the gun’s legendary durability. The full-length underlug, housing the ejector rod, adds to the overall rigidity and aids in minimizing muzzle rise during recoil. The frame is designed to distribute recoil forces throughout the handgun, making it comfortable to shoot even with powerful ammunition. This design consideration speaks to Ruger’s commitment to making a firearm that’s both enjoyable and manageable for the shooter. The frame’s heft also contributes to felt recoil reduction, a welcome feature for extended range sessions. The finish is typically a durable, matte stainless steel or a blued variant, chosen for its ability to withstand the elements and years of handling.
The cylinder is another critical component. In the seven-shot GP100, the cylinder is precisely machined to accommodate the extra round without compromising structural integrity. This is a testament to the meticulous engineering that goes into each Ruger. The cylinder rotates smoothly, and the chambers are flawlessly aligned with the barrel, ensuring reliable ignition and consistent accuracy. The inherent strength of the cylinder is crucial, as it is the primary component that must withstand the pressures generated by each fired round.
A Grip on Control and Comfort
The grips play an important role in handling and control. The factory grips on the GP100 are typically made of a durable rubber compound, providing a comfortable and secure hold, even with wet or sweaty hands. The design often features finger grooves, which promote a more natural grip and further improve control. For those who prefer customization, a variety of aftermarket grips are readily available. These options range from ergonomic designs to exotic wood or synthetic materials, allowing owners to tailor the feel and appearance of the handgun to their preferences. This adaptability enhances the overall appeal of the Ruger GP100, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
The sights on the GP100 are generally practical and effective. The rear sight is usually adjustable for windage and elevation, allowing shooters to fine-tune their point of impact. The front sight is often a ramped or patridge style, with options for interchangeable front sights to accommodate different lighting conditions or personal preferences. The sight picture is clear and relatively easy to acquire, making target acquisition quick and efficient. The sights are designed to be robust and durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use. The sight system on the GP100 contributes significantly to its overall accuracy and ease of use.
The Action: Smoothness and Control
The trigger mechanism is a crucial element. The GP100 typically features a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system. In double-action mode, pulling the trigger both cocks and releases the hammer, resulting in a longer and heavier pull. In single-action mode, the hammer is manually cocked, and the trigger pull is much lighter and crisper. The trigger pull on the GP100 is generally smooth and predictable, although some shooters may find it a bit heavier compared to some other revolvers. The trigger design contributes significantly to both the accuracy and the user experience.
The GP100’s trigger pull is a point often discussed. The double-action pull is typically smooth, with a clean break. The single-action pull is crisp, making it easy to achieve precise shot placement. While the factory trigger is very functional, there are also options for those who wish to refine the action further. Trigger jobs are available, allowing gunsmiths to reduce trigger weight and enhance the overall feel.
Performance and Handling
Testing the Waters: Performance at the Range
The true test of any firearm is its performance at the range. When you pick up the Ruger GP100 7 Shot, it feels substantial in your hand. The weight, while making it a bit less ideal for concealed carry compared to smaller revolvers, helps absorb recoil and promote stability. The ergonomics of the grip are generally comfortable for most shooters, allowing for a secure hold.
Accuracy is one of the strong suits of the GP100. The seven-shot variant, like its siblings, is capable of delivering tight groups at typical handgun ranges. The adjustable sights make it easy to fine-tune the point of impact, and the crisp single-action trigger pull allows for precise shot placement. The inherent accuracy of the design, combined with the quality of the barrel, contributes to its overall performance.
Reliability is a cornerstone of the GP100’s reputation. The robust construction, combined with the simple and reliable design, means that this revolver is built to withstand years of hard use. The gun functions well in diverse weather conditions, and the simplified design makes it relatively easy to clean and maintain. The GP100 is often considered to be very reliable.
Recoil management is another area where the GP100 excels. The weight of the handgun, combined with the grip design, effectively absorbs recoil, making it comfortable to shoot even with powerful ammunition. The full-length underlug also helps to mitigate muzzle rise, allowing for quick follow-up shots. This efficient recoil management contributes to the overall shootability of the handgun and allows for extended range sessions without excessive fatigue.
Pros and Cons
Weighing the Choices: Considering the Advantages and Disadvantages
There are many factors to evaluate when considering the Ruger GP100 7 Shot.
Some advantages are: Durability and Build Quality. The Ruger GP100 is built like a tank, with a robust frame and cylinder designed to withstand years of hard use. Reliability. The simple and reliable design, combined with high-quality materials, contributes to the gun’s exceptional reliability. Accuracy. The GP100 is known for its accuracy, capable of delivering tight groups at typical handgun ranges. Seven-Shot Capacity. The seven-shot capacity provides an advantage over traditional six-shot revolvers. Ergonomics and Handling. The grip design and weight of the gun contribute to comfortable handling and control. Ease of Maintenance. The simple design and rugged construction make the GP100 relatively easy to clean and maintain. Proven Reputation. Ruger has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality firearms, and the GP100 is a testament to that reputation.
However, there are also some considerations: The weight of the GP100 may be a drawback for some shooters, especially those considering concealed carry. The trigger pull, while smooth and predictable, may be a bit heavier than some other revolvers. The cylinder size could be an issue for some.
Comparison
Finding a Place in the World: Comparing to the Competition
Compared to the standard six-shot GP100, the seven-shot version simply offers an increase in firepower, without significant downsides. This added capacity can be a decisive advantage in self-defense scenarios.
When compared to other revolvers in its class, like the Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus (also a seven-shot), the GP100 holds its own. Both revolvers are known for their durability, accuracy, and reliability. The choice often comes down to personal preference regarding aesthetics, ergonomics, and trigger feel. The Ruger often comes with a price advantage.
Conclusion
This Ruger GP100 7 Shot Review has explored all aspects of this iconic revolver. The seven-shot GP100 is a rugged, reliable, and accurate handgun that’s well-suited for a variety of applications, from target shooting to personal defense. Its robust construction, comfortable ergonomics, and seven-shot capacity make it a compelling choice for those seeking a durable and capable revolver.
In summary, the GP100 7-shot is a solid choice, especially for those looking for an upgrade in firepower without a significant increase in size or weight. This revolver is suitable for a diverse group of people, from the experienced shooter who appreciates a dependable tool, to the newcomer who seeks a reliable firearm.
It represents a good value, offering a level of quality and performance that’s hard to match. For those seeking a durable, accurate, and reliable revolver, the Ruger GP100 7 Shot is a worthy contender.
This robust revolver stands as a testament to Ruger’s commitment to excellence. Its durability, reliability, and accuracy make it a worthy addition to any collection. If you are looking for a trustworthy revolver to protect yourself and your family, this is the handgun to buy.
