The Ruger GP100 is a full-size .357 Magnum revolver built for both veteran shooters and newcomers. It handles personal defense, sport shooting, and hunting well, with an alloy steel frame that keeps weight manageable at 45 oz while holding up to hard use. 
 
Key Specifications 

• Brand: Ruger 
• Model: GP100 
• Caliber: .357 Magnum 
• Action: Single/Double Action 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 6 inches 
• Overall Length: 11.5 inches 
• Weight: 45 oz (approximately 2.8 lbs) 
• Safety Feature: Transfer Bar Safety 
   
  Detailed Features 
   
  The alloy steel frame and blued finish resist corrosion and keep the gun shooting for the long term. Up front, a ramp front sight pairs with an adjustable rear, giving you enough flexibility for target work and defensive use at different distances. 
   
  The Hogue Monogrip is rubber, which absorbs recoil noticeably over a long range session. Combined with the GP100's weight, follow-up shots in .357 Magnum stay controlled. The grip frame is also designed to accept other grip styles if the Monogrip isn't your preference. 
   
  The standard trigger runs both single-action and double-action, so you can choose a lighter SA pull for careful work or a longer DA pull for a faster first shot from the holster. 
   
  Target Audience 
   
  The GP100 suits first-time revolver buyers who want a durable defensive gun, experienced shooters who prefer wheel guns for precision work, and anyone who wants a powerful caliber without a fragile frame. 
   
  Usage Scenarios 
   

1. Home Defense: The .357 Magnum's stopping power combined with the revolver's simple manual of arms makes it a solid home defense choice. 
    
2. Sport Shooting: The adjustable sights and 6-inch barrel make it accurate enough for both competitive events and casual range sessions. 
    
3. Field Use: The alloy steel construction holds up in rough terrain and variable weather.

Owners of the Ruger GP100 .357 Magnum with a 6" barrel and Hogue grips have a fairly consistent set of things to say about it, positive and otherwise.

Build quality comes up constantly. Most describe it as a tank -- the kind of revolver that runs indefinitely without issues. The Hogue grip gets credit for taming .357 Magnum recoil to the point where extended range sessions stay comfortable.

Accuracy at medium to long distances is another common point of praise, which is why target shooters and hunters gravitate toward this model in particular. The DA/SA trigger action is generally well-liked for its smooth transition between modes.

The GP100 also accepts both .38 Special and .357 Magnum, which owners appreciate -- .38 Special for practice, magnums when it counts.

On the downside, weight is the most cited complaint. At 45 oz, it's on the heavier end of the revolver spectrum, which rules it out for most people as a daily carry gun. The 6" barrel compounds the concealment problem. Price draws occasional grumbles, though most owners consider the quality worth it. A handful of users wish the finish were more refined visually, though function is not in question.

The general picture: a dependable, capable revolver that's better suited to home defense and range use than carry.