Ruger GP100 4.2″ Blued Revolver .357 Mag 6rd
The Ruger GP100 4.2″ blued revolver .357 mag 6rd is a workhorse double-action revolver built for serious personal defense and field use. Chambered in .357 Magnum (and .38 Special +P), this all-steel frame revolver uses a cushioned Hogue Monogrip and adjustable rear sight to keep you on target shot after shot. It’s the revolver I recommend to students who want absolute reliability without the bulk of a 6-inch barrel.
| Manufacturer | Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
|---|---|
| Model | GP100 |
| Material | Blued steel frame and cylinder |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum / .38 Special +P |
| Finish | Blued |
| Weight | 40 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Triple-Locking Cylinder — Why it matters: Ruger’s patented locking system secures the cylinder at the front, rear, and crane, eliminating endshake and keeping your alignment tight under heavy .357 recoil.
- 4.20″ Barrel with Full Underlug — Why it matters: The extra steel forward of the frame absorbs muzzle flip and adds weight to tame magnum loads, making follow-up shots faster and more accurate.
- Adjustable Rear Sight — Why it matters: You can dial in windage and elevation for your specific carry ammo or range loads, giving you practical precision out to 25 yards.
- Hogue Monogrip Rubber Grip — Why it matters: The soft rubber soaks up recoil and fills your palm, reducing hand fatigue during extended practice sessions or defensive use.
- Ramp Front Sight — Why it matters: The serrated ramp reduces glare and snag risk, letting you acquire the front sight quickly in low-light or high-stress situations.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the concealed carrier who wants backup-grade reliability, the home defender who wants a simple manual of arms, and the outdoorsman who needs a sidearm that won’t quit in rain, mud, or snow. It’s also a solid choice for new shooters learning double-action trigger control, thanks to its smooth 12-pound DA pull.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Near-indestructible construction, excellent .357 Magnum recoil management, adjustable sights for customization, and Ruger’s lifetime warranty.
- Cons: At 40 ounces unloaded, it’s heavy for everyday concealed carry—a lightweight alloy frame like the Ruger LCR might suit pocket carry better.
Comparison: Ruger GP100 vs. Smith & Wesson 686 vs. Taurus 692
| Feature | Ruger GP100 4.2″ | Smith & Wesson 686 4″ | Taurus 692 4″ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .357 Mag / .38 Spl | .357 Mag / .38 Spl | .357 Mag / .38 Spl / 9mm |
| Weight (unloaded) | 40 oz | 38.5 oz | 36 oz |
| Cylinder Capacity | 6 rounds | 7 rounds | 7 rounds |
| Finish | Blued | Stainless | Stainless |
| Price (approx) | $799 | $920 | $550 |
| Trigger (DA/SA) | 12 lb DA / 5 lb SA | 11 lb DA / 4.5 lb SA | 10 lb DA / 4 lb SA |
The Ruger GP100 edges out the 686 in durability with its thicker frame and triple-lock cylinder, while the Taurus 692 offers multi-caliber versatility but lacks the same aftermarket support and track record.
FAQ
Does the Ruger GP100 4.2″ blued revolver shoot .38 Special?
Yes. Per Ruger specs, this revolver is rated for .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P ammunition. You can safely shoot standard .38 Special for practice and carry .357 Magnum for defense.
What is the weight of the Ruger GP100 4.2″ blued model?
It weighs 40 ounces unloaded, per the manufacturer. That’s about 2.5 pounds—heavy enough to tame recoil but not so heavy it’s impractical for belt carry.
Can I mount a red dot on this revolver?
This model comes with an adjustable rear sight and ramp front sight. It does not have an optics-ready cut, but you can send it to a gunsmith for a red dot mount if desired.
Is the Ruger GP100 good for concealed carry?
It’s doable with a sturdy belt and OWB holster, but at 40 ounces and 4.2″ barrel, it’s better suited for open carry, home defense, or range use. For pocket or IWB carry, consider a Ruger SP101 or LCR.
What is the difference between the GP100 and the SP101?
The GP100 is a full-size, 6-shot revolver with a heavier frame and longer barrel. The SP101 is a compact 5-shot revolver designed for easier concealed carry. The GP100 handles .357 recoil better due to its extra weight.
Trust & Delivery
- ✅ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✅ Ships within 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day return policy
- ✅ Secure checkout with encrypted payment
Last updated: April 2026
According to the 2024 NSSF report, Ruger holds a 15% market share in the revolver category, making the GP100 one of the most trusted wheelguns among American shooters.
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