The Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp is a double-action revolver in .357 Magnum with a 3-inch cold hammer-forged steel barrel and a 6-round cylinder. The Wiley Clapp edition includes Novak LoMount rear sights and a gold bead front sight, which provide a fast acquisition sight picture compared to the standard GP100's adjustable rear. The cushioned rubber grip with checkered wood inserts gives positive control and helps dampen .357 Magnum recoil at 36 oz. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Ruger 
• Model: GP100 Wiley Clapp 
• Action Type: Revolver (Double Action) 
• Caliber: .357 Magnum 
• Barrel Length: 3 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Weight: 36 oz (2.25 lbs) 
• Finish: Blued 
• Grip: Black Cushioned Rubber with Checkered Wood Inserts 
   

Detailed Features 

The exposed hammer allows cocking for single-action fire when deliberate accuracy matters, while the double-action pull is suitable for faster defensive shooting. The transfer bar safety prevents the firing pin from contacting the primer unless the trigger is fully depressed, making it safe with all six chambers loaded. 
 
Novak sights are a meaningful upgrade from standard GP100 sights. The LoMount rear minimizes snagging during a draw, and the gold bead front gives a clear reference point in varied lighting. The 3-inch barrel is shorter than the standard 4.2-inch GP100, which aids concealment and reduces overall length without dramatically affecting .357 Magnum velocity. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

The 3-inch barrel and Novak sight package make this variant more practical for concealed or duty carry than the longer-barreled GP100 variants. At the range, the single-action mode suits deliberate target work. The .357 Magnum/.38 Special compatibility means you can practice with lighter .38 Special loads and carry .357 Magnum loads.

The GP100 Wiley Clapp draws consistent praise for the Novak sight upgrade, which owners specifically cite as a practical improvement over the standard adjustable GP100 rear sight. The 3-inch barrel length is appreciated for balancing carry practicality with barrel length, more compact than the 4.2-inch GP100 without dropping to a 2.5-inch snubby.

The double-action trigger quality gets favorable marks from GP100 owners generally, and the Wiley Clapp edition maintains that reputation. The exposed hammer is preferred by shooters who want single-action capability; buyers who want a purely double-action carry revolver sometimes note that a spurless hammer would be preferable for pocket carry.

Price is occasionally mentioned as slightly elevated versus the standard GP100, reflecting the Novak sights and Wiley Clapp customization. Overall the revolver is well-regarded as a purpose-built carry variant of the GP100 platform, and Ruger's build quality consistency is cited positively across the GP100 line.