Ruger SP101 — A Sturdy Rimfire "Secret"

Guns Magazine, August, 2000 by Clair Rees

When Ruger introduced the SP101 double-action revolver a dozen years ago, it was well received. First designed as a small-frame .38 Special, the SP101 was considerably lighter and more compact than the .357 Mag. GP100. In addition to .38 Special, .32 Mag., 9mm and (later) .357 Mag. Chamberings, the SP101 was also offered in .22 rim-fire versions. I acquired one of the DA Ruger .22s soon after they became available.

Shadowed by centerfire SP101s, this neat little rimfire hasn't received a lot of attention. Unlike the latest super-light alloy .22 revolvers, the all-stainless SP101 has substantial heft. My 4" barreled version sports a full-length shroud and weighs a beefy 34 ozs. A short-shroud variation is also available, along with a snubbie SP101 with a fully shrouded 2 1/4" tube. The SP101 is a very sturdy sixgun with a cylinder crane that locks solidly to the frame. It also wears a hand-filling synthetic grip.

The rear sight is a narrow, black sliver of steel inset into the top strap. In spite of this minimalist approach, the sight is screw-adjustable for windage and -- thanks to white outlining -- surprisingly easy to see. Other features include recessed chambers and an ejector rod that's long enough to kick empties completely clear.

Double-action trigger pull is smooth, breaking at 11 1/2 lbs. with slight stacking at the end. The single-action trigger snaps crisply at 4 lbs. even. Accuracy has been very good. With the right ammo, this gun is capable of 25-yard six-shot groups measuring 2 1/2" between centers.

While heavier than many .22 trail guns, the SP101 isn't an onerous burden. I've packed mine a lot of miles in an Uncle Mike's nylon Sidekick holster. Nothing fancy -- just a utilitarian combination you can depend on.