Ruger SP101 2.25"
Sturm, Ruger & Co. · Pistol · In Production · 1989
Also known as: SP101, SP-101
Overview
The Ruger SP101 is a small-frame, double-action/single-action revolver chambered in .357 Magnum (also firing .38 Special), introduced in 1989 as the smaller, more concealable counterpart to the medium-frame GP100. The 2.25-inch barrel model (Model 5718) is the snub-nose variant, weighing 737 grams (26 oz) unloaded with an all-stainless-steel construction that makes it one of the most robust small-frame revolvers ever produced. The SP101's defining characteristic is its overbuilt construction -- the frame, barrel, and cylinder are all investment-cast stainless steel, resulting in a revolver that can withstand sustained firing of full-power .357 Magnum ammunition, a feat that many competing small-frame revolvers cannot match. The five-shot cylinder locks into the frame at three points (front, rear, and bottom) via Ruger's triple-locking cylinder mechanism for precise barrel alignment. The transfer bar safety allows the revolver to be carried safely with all five chambers loaded. The front sight is a pinned, replaceable black ramp, while the rear sight is an integral notch machined into the frame's topstrap. Standard grips are black rubber with black synthetic inserts.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 737 g (26.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 778 g (27.4 oz) |
| Overall Length | 183 mm (7.20") |
| Barrel Length | 57 mm (2.24") |
| Height | 114 mm (4.49") |
| Width | 34 mm (1.34") |
| Action Type | Double Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Trigger Pull | 62 N (13.9 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 350 m/s (1148 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 496 J (366 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Satin Stainless |
Calibers
- .357 Magnum · primary — also known as .357 Mag, 9.1x33mmR
- .38 Special — also known as .38 Spl, .38 S&W Special
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolver Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Transfer Bar
- Features: Triple Locking Cylinder, Black Ramp Front Sight, Integral Rear Sight, Rubber Grips With Synthetic Inserts, Five Shot Cylinder, Dual Caliber Capability, Investment Cast Frame, Pinned Front Sight
Variants
- Ruger SP101 3.06" — Barrel Length
- Ruger SP101 4.2" — Barrel Length
- Ruger SP101 .22 LR — Caliber Variant
- Ruger SP101 .327 Federal Magnum — Caliber Variant
- Ruger SP101 9mm — Caliber Variant
Service history
Operators
- U.S. Civilian Concealed Carriers
- U.S. Law Enforcement (Backup / Off-Duty) · as Authorized Backup Weapon
Production
Production years: 1989-present
Continuous production since 1989; one of the most popular small-frame .357 Magnum revolvers, known for exceptional durability and overbuilt construction
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The SP101 was designed from the outset to handle .357 Magnum pressures indefinitely, a claim few other small-frame revolvers can make. The investment-cast stainless steel construction, while adding weight compared to aluminum-framed competitors like the S&W J-frame Airweight series, provides substantially greater durability and better recoil management. The double-action trigger pull is approximately 14 pounds (62 N) from the factory, while the single-action pull is approximately 5 pounds (22 N). The trigger can be significantly improved with polishing or aftermarket spring kits. The barrel twist is 1:16-inch right-hand with 5 grooves. With a 125-grain .357 Magnum JHP load, the 2.25-inch barrel typically produces approximately 1148 fps (350 m/s) with roughly 496 joules of muzzle energy -- a significant reduction from the cartridge's rated velocity in longer barrels. The SP101 is available in .357 Magnum, .327 Federal Magnum (6-shot), 9mm Luger (with moon clips), and .22 LR (8-shot). California and Massachusetts compliant. Suggested retail is approximately $939.
Background
The SP101 has earned the nickname 'the little tank' among revolver enthusiasts for its ability to handle thousands of rounds of full-power .357 Magnum ammunition without loosening or developing timing issues -- a remarkable feat for a small-frame revolver. It replaced the Ruger Security-Six series and was designed to be the most durable small-frame revolver available. While competitors like the S&W J-frame offer lighter weight through aluminum or scandium construction, the SP101's all-steel build has made it the preferred choice for shooters who prioritize longevity and the ability to practice extensively with full-power magnum loads. The SP101 with the 2.25-inch barrel has become one of the most recommended snub-nose revolvers for concealed carry by shooters who want .357 Magnum capability in a pocket-sized package.