The Ruger GP100 is a double/single-action revolver chambered in .357 Magnum/.38 Special. The satin stainless steel finish resists corrosion well and holds up to hard use. With a 5-inch heavy barrel and a weight of 43.5 oz (2.7 lbs), it's a substantial gun that absorbs magnum recoil without beating you up. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: GP100 
• Caliber: .38 SPECIAL/.357 MAGNUM 
• Action: Double/Single Action 
• Capacity: 6 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 5 inches 
• Weight: 2.7 lbs (43.5 oz) 
• Finish: Satin Stainless Steel 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The triple-locking cylinder locks at the front, rear, and crane, which tightens lockup and contributes to the consistent accuracy owners report. Adjustable rear sight paired with a fixed front ramp lets you dial in elevation and windage. The Hogue Monogrip rubber grip fits the hand well and cushions recoil during long sessions. 
 
The exposed hammer gives you the option to cock for single-action shots when precision matters. A transfer bar safety prevents the gun from firing unless the trigger is fully pressed. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Home Defense: .357 Magnum from a 5-inch barrel hits hard. Six rounds of cylinder-fed reliability with no magazine to worry about. 
• Sport Shooting: Adjustable sights and the long sight radius from the 5-inch barrel make it well-suited for target shooting and practical revolver competition. 
• Hunting/Field Use: The stainless finish handles weather well. .357 Magnum is adequate for small game and varmint work.

The GP100 in 5-inch stainless gets consistently positive reviews, with a few honest trade-offs that come with the territory.

Build quality is the most praised attribute. The stainless construction feels and looks solid, and owners routinely report putting thousands of rounds through these guns without issues. The weight — 43.5 oz — is the main tool for managing .357 Magnum recoil, and shooters who don't mind the heft appreciate how controllable full-power loads feel.

Accuracy with the 5-inch barrel gets high marks. Owners report tight groups at the range, which tracks with the long sight radius and tight cylinder lockup. The dual-caliber capability (.357 and .38 Special) is a practical plus — you can practice cheaply with .38 and carry .357.

On the downside: the weight and size are real. This isn't a carry gun for most people, and extended range sessions can get tiring. Trigger pull feedback is split — some shooters find double-action smooth after break-in, others think it needs work. Price comes up occasionally, though most owners concede the quality justifies it.

Net impression: one of the more reliable and well-built .357 revolvers available. Trade-offs are the bulk and weight, which are intrinsic to what makes it work as well as it does.