I purchased a GP100 3 inch about a year ago. I'd never been a fan of revolvers until I purchased this. It is very accurate, reliable and easy to work on. Thanks for anther great video sir.
I own the MC and can't recommend it enough. My one gripe is they don't make a 7 shot version. If they did I would gladly have paid the extra $. The clickity click when you pull the single action hammer back is rather addicting. Smooth as silk trigger, and fits in my hand as if they designed it just for my palm. Ammo possibilities are endless, and females/new shooters can easily handle this with 38 spec. Not a fan of all the lettering on the barrell as I am more a minimalist, but I nitpick. The gun is always a head turner when I shoot with friends. As much as I love and respect Smiths, the MC is about the best bang for buck high-quality revolver you can buy (about $750 give or take) as far as I am concerned.
I met Hickock45 at Whittaker Guns a few months ago and he told me I couldn't go wrong with either a GP100 or a 686 for a .357/.38 revolver. Nothing wrong with me now--I bought my Match Champion on 27 September 14. Someday soon, I hope to be worthy of it.
5:22 = "Bore" me?! Bubba-san, you never bore me! Your opinion is worth gold to me and I want to hear what you have to say. This is another great review. Thank you.
Yeah...I am fairly new to the gun community but I am finding that I am more of a revolver guy. Trying to get my hands on a 6in colt python at the moment. But this ruger gp100 match has really got my attention!
I bought a plain GP100 used, found out later it was made in 1989. Came with the old Lett grips, smooth rubber with rosewood inserts. I prefer those by far over the new Houge grips they come with now (but I do enjoy houge on my S&W). Anyway the gun was spitting particulates out the the barrel/cylinder gap so I sent it back to Ruger not sure what they'd do. I included a letter stating that I like the old grips my gun came with and if they should decide to replace the gun that I wanted my old grips back (despite the wood panels being slightly damaged). Well even though the gun was 25 years old they replaced the barrel at no charge and even put on a set of the Wiley Clapp grips which are a fancy version of the old Lett grips I had before. I did have to pay to ship the gun to them but I can live with that. Now that it doesn't pepper my cheek it's a really fun gun to shoot and I don't have to worry about that sucker wearing out any time soon.
You really don't hear much about the gp100 having to have much maintenance but I'm not surprised good old ruger took care of it. My gp100 is a 1989 model too.
Big fan and on your advise I bought the GP100 Match Champion and I just love it!!! I own two GP100s 4" and 6". I went in the USAF as a Security Policeman in 1986 and we carried the Combat Masterpiece M15 .38 special and I loved the weapon. The Match Champion reminds me of the old M15. Mine has the adjustable rear sight and it is going to be my mountain firearm. It just feels good and Ruger did their home work. Again the Match Champion just feels and shoots so good. Thanks again.
In the country I live in at the moment shooting gun is really not big, but I started it as a hobby. Shooting with a 22.cal. How you aim and shoot, hickok45, is truly amazing to me! I enjoy your videos
Good simple video. I purchased a GP100 on 11/25/2015 off of a recommendation from a local gun shop. I have not even fired it and I am seriously impressed! Looking forward to some range time this weekend!!
Have owned a Ruger GP 100 for a few years now (6" Brushed Stainless) love this revolver. Added a Wolf Spring kit to it and did some polishing of the internals it is now like night and day very smooth and light in both single action and double. In addition firearm has been a good investment. Love this gun!
According to Ruger, on the model that comes with the adjustable rear sight, they also include two different fiber optic front sights. One low and the other higher. (.38 Special and .357 Magnum)
I have a Ruger GP100 172 Prefix "1991" with the original two-piece Lett grips. One thing I love about my revolvers is: I can keep it under my desk top for 10 years, and I know without a doubt, that if I ever have to get it out and pull the trigger it will go bang. Otherwise my two carries are a 19 & 26
based on all the gun controversy throughout america, i think a good video idea, is how you would teach a young person to start shooting, like how to respect the firearm and not be afraid of it. hickok45
I completely agree. As an owner of this exact pistol I have brought several people including a 12 year old boy and his father to the firing range and taught them how to shoot a pistol properly. I think every gun owner should teach friends and family who are willing and want to learn how to handle a firearm.
The first thing I did with my kids is put the gun down and tell them to watch it. Note that it does not jump up and look for a school to shoot up. All gun owners should teach their kids other family and friends to shoot. My wife was anti gun till she met me. Now she loves her AR 15. My kids are little gun nuts too! They know how to safely use guns for target practice and defense.
@@bigsleep32 my 11 year old wouldn't put my GP100 down till he shot up all my ammo last time we went shooting. Luckily I had my 1911 with me so I could have fun too!
Picked up my new Ruger Revolver GP100. Model#1715. Three inch barrel. Went directly to the LAX Gun Range and shot 100 rounds of 357 Magnum. Most enjoyable and relaxing experience.
I find myself coming back and watching this GP100 video over and over again ... I just don't seem to get tired of it. Its just really just enjoyable to watch. And thanks for the good camera action Jon. You put together some really interesting and enjoyable videos.
First time I held a GP100, I noticed just how comfortable the original grips felt in my somewhat small hands. My son, whose hands are slightly smaller felt the same. Surprisingly, my friend, who has substantially larger hands, said they fit him perfectly. I later tried a Redhawk with the same grips, although I wasn't able to fire it, but if I ever buy a 44 mag, it'll be a Redhawk with these grips. In my opinion, there's no better revolver available than the GP 100. Built like a tank, accurate, and comfortable. Who could ask for more.
The last time I was shopping for a new revolver my decision came down to a S&W 586 or a Ruger GP100. I was about to buy the GP100 when the salesperson pulled out the Match Champion from his display case. Perfectly-sized wooden grips, fiber optic front sight, and it's rated for 38+P+ ammo (compared to S&W's 38+p rating.) I love it. Now every day at the range is revolver time!
I agree, as I was always a dyed in the wool S&W guy. Then along came the Match Champion which is just a better effort of customizing of the GP-100. And that's the push, the GO-100 is indeed better than any modern S&W in terms of stout and now combining refinement.
What Frank said. The most over preassured .38 special loads are still lighter than the 357magnum load. Of Colt, S&W, and Ruger, the GP100 line is known to be the one that can take the most punishment and keep good timing. The colt python is the most beautiful of the 3 comparable magnum options, but they lose timing easily.
Might have one of these match champions soon. Was happy to see the legend had made a video on it. I was having trouble finding what made the match champions different.
Love my revolvers, got a 2.5", 4" and a 6" 686 .357 Magum, all of them are great shooters and a lot of fun. Compete with all of them in PPC amongst other things.
I have been shooting a model 66 - probably done in the early eighties. Smooth accurate in double action , single action just a touch but you can not push down the hammer when back no much pressure you can create with your hands. Also a model 60 +P my wife carried when she was alive.
I'm a bit of a single action revolver guy myself, but one day I figured that I ought to learn how to shoot a double action revolver (and actually hit something). I ended up getting one of these, but the adjustable sight model rather than the fixed sight version. I picked it because, 1. I was already familiar with Ruger in general and had some experience with a GP 100, 2. I like how overbuilt the GP 100 is, so it can stand up to all of the practice, both live and snap cap that I would end up putting it through to learn how to pull a double action trigger, and 3. I like the looks and weight of the MC because it seems like a hybrid of the old 4 inch service revolvers like you see in old movies or news reel footage and more modern construction with wide adaptability for different grips. I ended up loving the revolver, but hating the grips. I gave that big Hogue grip a fair chance, but the 'hump' in the back strap section just battered my palm into submission. I ended up swapping it out for a set of Lett style Altamont grips with the wood side panels. Interestingly, I found a good home for the Hogue that came on it, it does quite well on my dad's 6 inch GP 100 which has more weight to deaden the recoil and I like the grip on that revolver. The MC with that grip was light enough to recoil painfully with that grip. Now, it looks even closer to the old service revolvers and I have managed to learn the ways of the double action. An old Navy contract Victory model Smith and Wesson worked it's way into my collection, thanks in part to my MC. I have to say though, a more fitting name would have been 'Service Champion' or 'Combat Champion', at least for the fixed sight model if not both of them. I remember most of the reviews I read complaining about calling it "Match Champion" and not giving it adjustable sights. The thing is, it's meant for the IDPA Stock Service Revolver matches, not target matches. That's fine by me, as it makes it a good revolver to bet your life on and that's exactly the role mine now fills, replacing my 1911 that I couldn't practice often enough with to stay accurate enough, the revolver I can just pick up and use like a bicycle or a hammer, I don't need to practice as much to stay accurate with it. Makes me wonder if many police departments wouldn't be better served by going back to their revolvers, considering how often some of them practice.
I have an older S&W model 66 with a 4 inch barrel and love it. I am looking at getting GP100 or SP101 next due to I really enjoy revolvers. I also have heritage rough rider 22lr/22mag.with 6 1/2 inch barrel
Ok now this BS has got to stop. I had put this video on pause three times now and each time I had to go buy a revolver. In less than twelve minutes, I bought three new revolvers: a 4" Ruger GP100, 6" S&W 686 and an 8" Taurus 44 Mag. I hope your happy. I know I am! :>)
I'm a Smith and Wesson guy to the bone. But if I have do have a couple of Rugers, and man, are they well built! You could probably use the GP-100 as a framing hammer and still shoot it just fine. Tough guns.
GetTheFO You can go wrong with either the model 41 or the Woodsman. When I was a kid I wanted a Woodsman. It was a long time before I ever got one. Now I have 3 of them. Colt Match Target Woodsman 22LR Pistol Colt Woodsman 22LR on Steel Targets Colt Woodsman Sport 22LR Semi-Auto Pistol Have other more detailed videos of all three. These are just the most recent.
That is one gorgeous looking firearm! I just can't justify buying another .357 Magnum. Presently, I own two Smith and Wessons, Model 686. One is the four inch, seven shot variety, and the other is the 2.5 inch, six shot. Both are a dream to shoot. I also have a two inch Taurus, seven shot. I put a pair of Hogue grips on the Taurus to help with the felt recoil; and that gun is an incredible shooter. I use it more than my Smiths. I figure if I shoot the Taurus a lot, it will save my Smiths. But, this Ruger is tempting!
Owner of a GP 100 myself and enjoy shooting it .... Def prefer 357 or 38 loads for that extra kick and I agree, there's something about individual loading ... Thanks, an avid viewer of your Channel
Thanks, as always for the great reviews and demo shots. I always enjoy your gun musings. I am contemplating the GP100 vs. 686 plus. I initially loved your review of the Smith, but after further research it looks like the Smiths have barrel issues. This Ruger looks sweet.
I have two Ruger .357's. One, I use occasionally as my concealed carry since it's a bit smaller. It's the Ruger Security Six that I have had since 1976. I got the Ruger Match Champion a few years ago. I carry it with me hunting and it's rest time is spent beside my bed.
I have a GP-100 with 4" ported barrel. I love shooting this magnificent revolver. Mine has Hogue grips instead of wood and the original front sight. I am planning on replacing it wi8th a fiber optic in the near future. I originally had a Rossi .357 but my hand couldn't take the recoil. With the ported 4" barrel I could shoot the .357 Magnum all day. The barrel stays on target for quicker repeat shots. One thing I found from one of the TH-camrs about the ported barrel is to use Vaseline on the ports and they clean up a lot easier. It works. Love my GP-100. Dave
I have an older GP-100 with the wood and rubber grips 1980'S ERA. It was one of my first pistols. I shot a lot of different revolvers at a range and could not shoot consistently with the Smith and others. The range manager saw me struggling and said I might like to try the RugerGP-100 4" to shoot up my remaining ammo!! I DId so much better with it and was much more accurate and consistent!!! I bought one as soon as I could find one. SS with adjustable sights. It shoots very well especially with 38 special and lighter loaded .357 mag. It will handle almost any load. I am the only reason it doesn't shoot better!!!
Hickok45... Just wanted to say thanks to you and John for the hard work you put in on the channel. There's so much negative PR in the corporate media. It's nice to see a counterbalance to some of that insanity that show an informative viewpoint of responsible gun ownership. Thanks again.
i held a 4" at a local gun shop fell in love with it watched several of your gp100 videos and last finally bought it last year not the match but original one no regets 🤘👍
The first model of the GP100 was originally a Police Service Six 38/357 stainless...and a copy of the Service Six was the Security Six .The Service Six had combat sights and the Security Six had raised target sights. Durham Ruger Hartford Connecticut USA made. All stainless steel, Four inch Barrels have never shot a GP maybe one day...the sights are intimidating to me too...Good presentation...
5:22 Hickok, absolutely nothing boring about revolvers, especially the GP100's. I'm currently saving for one! Watched all your revolver vids and those vids convinced me to get one.
I own the GP100 MC and I highly recommend that, if you don't already own a GP100, buy the standard version with 4inch barrel. The MC is not well built at all, the novak sights are terrible, and the standard has better grips, better sights, and just built better all around.
Gotta love a nice revolver, I always did like revolvers. Shot someone's S&W model 686 cal .38/.357 with rubber grips a while ago, liked that a lot for sure. A .357 is a great round.
While I'm not fond of the big MATCH CHAMPION emblazoned on the side, it's a phenomenal revolver. Even better balanced than the regular model (still an excellent firearm). I bought one today, without having to think too hard.
You know what? Lets shoot a little more .357 maaaaagnum! I love Mr Hickoks' videos especially when he likes the gun and caliber he is demonstrating as much as he does in this video. Shooting is fun, life is good. Thank you for all the great videos.
Still love to shoot my old S&W 4" 586 no dash 357 mag. Nothing beats a quality revolver, except maybe a good 1911. Two of my favorite platforms. Thanks hickok45 for sharing.
I have a special order one. Davidson exclusive 5 inch barrel with Talo exclusive unfluted cylinder and a trigger job by a gun smith. A friend. Custom walnut checkered grips. Root walnut the curly one you see on very high end shotguns. It is a dream come true. Dry fire wet fire it is always in my hands. Cant get enough of it
I've owned a 6" GP 100, 3" S&W 686 and a 4" S&W 627 and enjoyed them all. I really like the look and feel on the GP Champ and when we get our right to " buy and walk " with our fire arms back next month I will be walking out with a Champion.
Ruger is renown for making a very ruggedly built revolver, but I've always favored Smith&Wesson mainly due to their triggers. I never pulled a Smith revolver I didn't love, however, a nice 4" Ruger with a decent trigger job and that Novack low profile rear sight just might tempt me.
Man, I love semi-autos over revolvers generally, but that is indeed a beautiful revolver. I will say that, in general, revolvers are at least way more prettier than semi-autos.
Ruger makes incredible revolvers - I had a Taurus 856 UL (which was a pretty decent revolver) but I went down to my LGS and checked out a SP101 in .357 and it made my Taurus feel like a toy lol both are good but Ruger is extremely good
this is the exact revolver I own and it's great. really enjoy shooting it. Something about revolvers is fun to shoot, unload and reload. they are very satisfying. I also love to be able to go single or double action.
I have a blued, 6" GP-100 with a half lug barrel. Don't see many of those............ I put fiber optic front and rear sights on it, and it is by far my favorite gun..........(I like the old wood insert rubber grips, too).
I just bought a stainless 6" GP100 about a month ago. Fantastic firearm and I love how it looks. I put some neon optic sites on there which made it even better. I'd like to get a full wood grip at some point. But the rubber is very comfortable.
I have one of these on my list as my retirement gift to myself in just another year and a half. I reluctantly sold my 686 with a 6" barrel in 357 which i loved at the range a few years ago. I would like to try one as having a shorter sight radius than my previous wheelgun. The nice barrel and worked trigger of this gun I just bet it will be a fun long range plinker. I have medium sized hands and a K frame and a 357 mag cartridge has always just fit my well. I have fired many bigger and smaller but love 357. I would even like to try a .357 sig someday in a pistol. I just like those faster bullet speeds. I'm really surprised that cartridge isn't more popular than it is in the standard 9x19, 40, and 45acp in a pistol category. I only have my carry Ruger 9mm SR9c at the moment, and because of its very good trigger, it shoots surprisingly well, better than I will ever shoot it. Love the revolver videos, they are my favorite as everything is modern semi auto rifles in vids nowadays.That and the classic military rifles I enjoy. Thank you for all that you do for us shooting enthusiasts.
I fired a friends Taurus model 66, clone of the 686 at the range in 357. It was a newer model and I was pleasantly surprised with it. I would take one if the price was right. The trigger was nice, and the fit and finish was good for the money.
I got one of the early ones (176-#####) serial number and I now use it exclusively for my annual HR-218 (LEOSA) qualifications. It is worth every dollar spent, and that is coming from a S&W guy at heart!
I can double the new shooter and .38 + heavy revolver combo. My Ruger Security-Six is always the fan favorite when it comes to introducing new shooters to the range.
I purchased a GP100 with a 6 inch barrel, blued, and I have to say that I am in love with this weapon !!! I know that Hickok45 has done two shows with a Ruger GP100 but both videos are with short barrels and I wish he would do one with a 6 inch. HEY HICKOK45!! What do you say about doing a video on a GP100, 6 inch? Can you humor this 'ol Oklahoma boy? He is right, these GP100's are built like tanks. They are not fine tuned like Smith revolver but none the less, they are reliable weapons. I did a lot of looking around at several different GP100's with various barrel lengths and the 6 in is really nice.. I like the longer barrel because assist with the recoil. I have shot .38 special, .38 special +P, .357 Mag through my weapon and it is just fun. I am thinking about purchasing another GP100 with a shorter barrel so I can use it as my carry weapon.
A classic revolver, a classic round, and a classy shooter.
I second that.
Here, Here
definitely going to be my next purchase
An all round great revolver is a Tradition 45. LC, great handling, smooth firing, and just a great revolver that almost exactly represents a Colt 45.
Well said
I still proudly own a GP100 6 inch barrel. Excellent revolver! Me and my son have fired over a 2000 rounds without a single problem.
I purchased a GP100 3 inch about a year ago. I'd never been a fan of revolvers until I purchased this. It is very accurate, reliable and easy to work on. Thanks for anther great video sir.
As a fan of NON polymer wonders, you will never bore me with a revolver.
Tornadoes67 that's right.... I'm really surprised that people actually get bored listening about revolvers
GP100 is my favorite gun ever. The 6" version is a work of art.
I own the MC and can't recommend it enough. My one gripe is they don't make a 7 shot version. If they did I would gladly have paid the extra $. The clickity click when you pull the single action hammer back is rather addicting. Smooth as silk trigger, and fits in my hand as if they designed it just for my palm. Ammo possibilities are endless, and females/new shooters can easily handle this with 38 spec. Not a fan of all the lettering on the barrell as I am more a minimalist, but I nitpick. The gun is always a head turner when I shoot with friends. As much as I love and respect Smiths, the MC is about the best bang for buck high-quality revolver you can buy (about $750 give or take) as far as I am concerned.
GP-100 value for dollar finest revolver on the planet. Another Ruger work of art.
I met Hickock45 at Whittaker Guns a few months ago and he told me I couldn't go wrong with either a GP100 or a 686 for a .357/.38 revolver.
Nothing wrong with me now--I bought my Match Champion on 27 September 14. Someday soon, I hope to be worthy of it.
5:22 = "Bore" me?! Bubba-san, you never bore me! Your opinion is worth gold to me and I want to hear what you have to say. This is another great review. Thank you.
Oh my goodness, what an absolutely gorgeous revolver ! Ruger`s always look so heavy and rugged !
does your wife get tick'd that her Clay flower pots keep disappearing?
Michael Salyer
🤣🤣🤣
Mines not a match champion but I love my 4' stainless GP-100!
I love mine too!😍
Same. Im about to buy the 6" 7 cylinder to compliment my 4.20" 6 cylinder.
I have 6" stainless and love it.
I love revolvers myself, actually prefer them over semi autos.
Jocc2C's BulletProofSoul81 hell yeah they leave no evidence on the scene
You and me both ! 👍
I like revolvers particularly Ruger revolvers.
Yeah...I am fairly new to the gun community but I am finding that I am more of a revolver guy. Trying to get my hands on a 6in colt python at the moment. But this ruger gp100 match has really got my attention!
@@MrExplorer1965 ò9
I bought a plain GP100 used, found out later it was made in 1989. Came with the old Lett grips, smooth rubber with rosewood inserts. I prefer those by far over the new Houge grips they come with now (but I do enjoy houge on my S&W). Anyway the gun was spitting particulates out the the barrel/cylinder gap so I sent it back to Ruger not sure what they'd do. I included a letter stating that I like the old grips my gun came with and if they should decide to replace the gun that I wanted my old grips back (despite the wood panels being slightly damaged). Well even though the gun was 25 years old they replaced the barrel at no charge and even put on a set of the Wiley Clapp grips which are a fancy version of the old Lett grips I had before. I did have to pay to ship the gun to them but I can live with that.
Now that it doesn't pepper my cheek it's a really fun gun to shoot and I don't have to worry about that sucker wearing out any time soon.
You really don't hear much about the gp100 having to have much maintenance but I'm not surprised good old ruger took care of it. My gp100 is a 1989 model too.
Big fan and on your advise I bought the GP100 Match Champion and I just love it!!! I own two GP100s 4" and 6". I went in the USAF as a Security Policeman in 1986 and we carried the Combat Masterpiece M15 .38 special and I loved the weapon. The Match Champion reminds me of the old M15. Mine has the adjustable rear sight and it is going to be my mountain firearm. It just feels good and Ruger did their home work. Again the Match Champion just feels and shoots so good. Thanks again.
I have a Security Six SS 357, 2 and 3/4 inch , Have had it for 35 years. Still looks great. Shots great. I will never get rid of it.
In the country I live in at the moment shooting gun is really not big, but I started it as a hobby. Shooting with a 22.cal. How you aim and shoot, hickok45, is truly amazing to me! I enjoy your videos
Good simple video. I purchased a GP100 on 11/25/2015 off of a recommendation from a local gun shop. I have not even fired it and I am seriously impressed! Looking forward to some range time this weekend!!
Glad you did the video with the GP100, I have one with the 4" barrel it's great shooter.
Have owned a Ruger GP 100 for a few years now (6" Brushed Stainless) love this revolver. Added a Wolf Spring kit to it and did some polishing of the internals it is now like night and day very smooth and light in both single action and double. In addition firearm has been a good investment. Love this gun!
I bought one a few weeks ago, not the match champion, the standard .357, I love it
According to Ruger, on the model that comes with the adjustable rear sight, they also include two different fiber optic front sights. One low and the other higher. (.38 Special and .357 Magnum)
You sure ? I own both and they’re both the same front sight
15 years and still loving my GP-100. Will never sell or trade it away.
I have a Ruger GP100 172 Prefix "1991" with the original two-piece Lett grips. One thing I love about my revolvers is: I can keep it under my desk top for 10 years, and I know without a doubt, that if I ever have to get it out and pull the trigger it will go bang.
Otherwise my two carries are a 19 & 26
I don't think there's too much in the world that's finer to look at than 6 chambers full of .357 Magnum...
sure there is, it's called 44 magnum lol
+Carolus Rex sorry but 44 beats 41, besides can't hardly find 41 here.
I have this revolved and love it.
Hickok, your my go to guy when I'm looking for some info on firearms. Keep er coming bud.
based on all the gun controversy throughout america, i think a good video idea, is how you would teach a young person to start shooting, like how to respect the firearm and not be afraid of it. hickok45
thanks! :)
I completely agree. As an owner of this exact pistol I have brought several people including a 12 year old boy and his father to the firing range and taught them how to shoot a pistol properly. I think every gun owner should teach friends and family who are willing and want to learn how to handle a firearm.
The first thing I did with my kids is put the gun down and tell them to watch it. Note that it does not jump up and look for a school to shoot up. All gun owners should teach their kids other family and friends to shoot. My wife was anti gun till she met me. Now she loves her AR 15. My kids are little gun nuts too! They know how to safely use guns for target practice and defense.
@@bigsleep32 my 11 year old wouldn't put my GP100 down till he shot up all my ammo last time we went shooting. Luckily I had my 1911 with me so I could have fun too!
Picked up my new Ruger Revolver GP100. Model#1715. Three inch barrel. Went directly to the LAX Gun Range and shot 100 rounds of 357 Magnum. Most enjoyable and relaxing experience.
I find myself coming back and watching this GP100 video over and over again ... I just don't seem to get tired of it. Its just really just enjoyable to watch. And thanks for the good camera action Jon. You put together some really interesting and enjoyable videos.
First time I held a GP100, I noticed just how comfortable the original grips felt in my somewhat small hands. My son, whose hands are slightly smaller felt the same. Surprisingly, my friend, who has substantially larger hands, said they fit him perfectly. I later tried a Redhawk with the same grips, although I wasn't able to fire it, but if I ever buy a 44 mag, it'll be a Redhawk with these grips. In my opinion, there's no better revolver available than the GP
100. Built like a tank, accurate, and comfortable. Who could ask for more.
Got mine about 2 months ago and absolutely LOVE it!
The last time I was shopping for a new revolver my decision came down to a S&W 586 or a Ruger GP100. I was about to buy the GP100 when the salesperson pulled out the Match Champion from his display case. Perfectly-sized wooden grips, fiber optic front sight, and it's rated for 38+P+ ammo (compared to S&W's 38+p rating.) I love it. Now every day at the range is revolver time!
I agree, as I was always a dyed in the wool S&W guy. Then along came the Match Champion which is just a better effort of customizing of the GP-100. And that's the push, the GO-100 is indeed better than any modern S&W in terms of stout and now combining refinement.
To correct myself: the GP100 Match Champion is NOT rated for +p+ ammunition. But it's still a great gun.
Fencer 45 It should handle 38 +P+ with no problem as it is a .357 magnum revolver
What Frank said. The most over preassured .38 special loads are still lighter than the 357magnum load. Of Colt, S&W, and Ruger, the GP100 line is known to be the one that can take the most punishment and keep good timing. The colt python is the most beautiful of the 3 comparable magnum options, but they lose timing easily.
Might have one of these match champions soon. Was happy to see the legend had made a video on it. I was having trouble finding what made the match champions different.
Love my revolvers, got a 2.5", 4" and a 6" 686 .357 Magum, all of them are great shooters and a lot of fun. Compete with all of them in PPC amongst other things.
I have been shooting a model 66 - probably done in the early eighties. Smooth accurate in double action , single action just a touch but you can not push down the hammer when back no much pressure you can create with your hands. Also a model 60 +P my wife carried when she was alive.
I'm a bit of a single action revolver guy myself, but one day I figured that I ought to learn how to shoot a double action revolver (and actually hit something). I ended up getting one of these, but the adjustable sight model rather than the fixed sight version. I picked it because, 1. I was already familiar with Ruger in general and had some experience with a GP 100, 2. I like how overbuilt the GP 100 is, so it can stand up to all of the practice, both live and snap cap that I would end up putting it through to learn how to pull a double action trigger, and 3. I like the looks and weight of the MC because it seems like a hybrid of the old 4 inch service revolvers like you see in old movies or news reel footage and more modern construction with wide adaptability for different grips. I ended up loving the revolver, but hating the grips. I gave that big Hogue grip a fair chance, but the 'hump' in the back strap section just battered my palm into submission. I ended up swapping it out for a set of Lett style Altamont grips with the wood side panels. Interestingly, I found a good home for the Hogue that came on it, it does quite well on my dad's 6 inch GP 100 which has more weight to deaden the recoil and I like the grip on that revolver. The MC with that grip was light enough to recoil painfully with that grip. Now, it looks even closer to the old service revolvers and I have managed to learn the ways of the double action. An old Navy contract Victory model Smith and Wesson worked it's way into my collection, thanks in part to my MC. I have to say though, a more fitting name would have been 'Service Champion' or 'Combat Champion', at least for the fixed sight model if not both of them. I remember most of the reviews I read complaining about calling it "Match Champion" and not giving it adjustable sights. The thing is, it's meant for the IDPA Stock Service Revolver matches, not target matches. That's fine by me, as it makes it a good revolver to bet your life on and that's exactly the role mine now fills, replacing my 1911 that I couldn't practice often enough with to stay accurate enough, the revolver I can just pick up and use like a bicycle or a hammer, I don't need to practice as much to stay accurate with it. Makes me wonder if many police departments wouldn't be better served by going back to their revolvers, considering how often some of them practice.
I have an older S&W model 66 with a 4 inch barrel and love it. I am looking at getting GP100 or SP101 next due to I really enjoy revolvers. I also have heritage rough rider 22lr/22mag.with 6 1/2 inch barrel
just recently purchased a GP100 myself just last week, and i'll be officially picking it up on Wednesday from the shooting range that I go to
Ok now this BS has got to stop. I had put this video on pause three times now and each time I had to go buy a revolver. In less than twelve minutes, I bought three new revolvers: a 4" Ruger GP100, 6" S&W 686 and an 8" Taurus 44 Mag. I hope your happy. I know I am! :>)
How's the Taurus holding up?
Vigi Drive
Saku19
Vigi Driver how do you like your gp100? i'm considering the 4 inch black one
Good thing Hickok45 couldn't remember the name of that 4th gun maker.
Thank you Kentucky... Thats my kind of comedy and why i am a hickok45 fan. Mr. hickock your a smooth operator.
Thanks for the videos sir.
revolvers are just the finest piece of firearm ever created, the GP100 really hit paydirt when Ruger made it with the match champ mods
Thank You Kentucky. We appreciate your windage.
I'm a Smith and Wesson guy to the bone. But if I have do have a couple of Rugers, and man, are they well built! You could probably use the GP-100 as a framing hammer and still shoot it just fine. Tough guns.
random question. If you had two revolvers in front of you which one would you pick a new production Smith Combat 66 or a GP100 Match Champion?
Beautiful revolver
Nice Colt Woodsman in your profile pic. I love those things.
You got that right Shep!
GetTheFO It`s a S&W model 41
***** So it`s not perfect. :)
It`s still a nice gun.
GetTheFO You can go wrong with either the model 41 or the Woodsman. When I was a kid I wanted a Woodsman. It was a long time before I ever got one. Now I have 3 of them.
Colt Match Target Woodsman 22LR Pistol
Colt Woodsman 22LR on Steel Targets
Colt Woodsman Sport 22LR Semi-Auto Pistol
Have other more detailed videos of all three. These are just the most recent.
That is one gorgeous looking firearm! I just can't justify buying another .357 Magnum. Presently, I own two Smith and Wessons, Model 686. One is the four inch, seven shot variety, and the other is the 2.5 inch, six shot. Both are a dream to shoot. I also have a two inch Taurus, seven shot. I put a pair of Hogue grips on the Taurus to help with the felt recoil; and that gun is an incredible shooter. I use it more than my Smiths. I figure if I shoot the Taurus a lot, it will save my Smiths. But, this Ruger is tempting!
Owner of a GP 100 myself and enjoy shooting it .... Def prefer 357 or 38 loads for that extra kick and I agree, there's something about individual loading ... Thanks, an avid viewer of your Channel
Thanks, as always for the great reviews and demo shots. I always enjoy your gun musings. I am contemplating the GP100 vs. 686 plus. I initially loved your review of the Smith, but after further research it looks like the Smiths have barrel issues. This Ruger looks sweet.
I have two Ruger .357's. One, I use occasionally as my concealed carry since it's a bit smaller. It's the Ruger Security Six that I have had since 1976. I got the Ruger Match Champion a few years ago. I carry it with me hunting and it's rest time is spent beside my bed.
I have a GP-100 with 4" ported barrel. I love shooting this magnificent revolver. Mine has Hogue grips instead of wood and the original front sight. I am planning on replacing it wi8th a fiber optic in the near future. I originally had a Rossi .357 but my hand couldn't take the recoil. With the ported 4" barrel I could shoot the .357 Magnum all day. The barrel stays on target for quicker repeat shots. One thing I found from one of the TH-camrs about the ported barrel is to use Vaseline on the ports and they clean up a lot easier. It works. Love my GP-100. Dave
I have the 6 inch blued version gp-100, great reliable revolver. You should do a video on the ruger super Redhawk alaskan in .44 or .454
***** Stay tuned. See Facebook pic.
I have the same GP as you and I really like it. I do want a match champion though.
Daniel Macias I.
I have an older GP-100 with the wood and rubber grips 1980'S ERA. It was one of my first pistols. I shot a lot of different revolvers at a range and could not shoot consistently with the Smith and others. The range manager saw me struggling and said I might like to try the RugerGP-100 4" to shoot up my remaining ammo!! I DId so much better with it and was much more accurate and consistent!!! I bought one as soon as I could find one. SS with adjustable sights. It shoots very well especially with 38 special and lighter loaded .357 mag. It will handle almost any load. I am the only reason it doesn't shoot better!!!
Hickok45... Just wanted to say thanks to you and John for the hard work you put in on the channel. There's so much negative PR in the corporate media. It's nice to see a counterbalance to some of that insanity that show an informative viewpoint of responsible gun ownership. Thanks again.
Simple elegance of a revolver can't be under appreciated
i held a 4" at a local gun shop fell in love with it watched several of your gp100 videos and last finally bought it last year not the match but original one no regets 🤘👍
The first model of the GP100 was originally a Police Service Six 38/357 stainless...and a copy of the Service Six was the Security Six .The Service Six had combat sights and the Security Six had raised target sights. Durham Ruger Hartford Connecticut USA made. All stainless steel, Four inch Barrels have never shot a GP maybe one day...the sights are intimidating to me too...Good presentation...
Pops you are the best Gun Slinger out there
5:22 Hickok, absolutely nothing boring about revolvers, especially the GP100's. I'm currently saving for one! Watched all your revolver vids and those vids convinced me to get one.
I just picked up a gp100 4” model that’s engraved. Just a Beaty of a revolver
Those American Eagle 357s hit hard. :) One of my favorite calibers to shoot.
Still marvel at how far you can accurately shoot a pistol!
Yeah that's some skill
I own the GP100 MC and I highly recommend that, if you don't already own a GP100, buy the standard version with 4inch barrel. The MC is not well built at all, the novak sights are terrible, and the standard has better grips, better sights, and just built better all around.
My MC came with the adjustable rear sight. And is very well built.
Picked one up at my lgs for $765. Great gun and thanks for doing the review.
I love the very last seconds where, after going through the bottle in slow-mo, the bullet dings against a plate. Two for one.
Gotta love a nice revolver, I always did like revolvers. Shot someone's S&W model 686 cal .38/.357 with rubber grips a while ago, liked that a lot for sure. A .357 is a great round.
Saw one up close today, what a GORGEOUS rig.
Mr. Hickok, you're the reason why I now have two revolvers ..LOL I have a Ruger GP100 5in and a Smith & Wesson Model 66 both .357 magnums! :D
While I'm not fond of the big MATCH CHAMPION emblazoned on the side, it's a phenomenal revolver. Even better balanced than the regular model (still an excellent firearm). I bought one today, without having to think too hard.
I love my 686. They are both great revolvers. i may be old fashioned but i love them
You know what? Lets shoot a little more .357 maaaaagnum! I love Mr Hickoks' videos especially when he likes the gun and caliber he is demonstrating as much as he does in this video. Shooting is fun, life is good. Thank you for all the great videos.
Still love to shoot my old S&W 4" 586 no dash 357 mag. Nothing beats a quality revolver, except maybe a good 1911. Two of my favorite platforms. Thanks hickok45 for sharing.
I have this in 10mm/.40cal
Great firearm!
Yep I got a gp 100 6in I couldn't be happier. Love show 45 thanks
I have a special order one. Davidson exclusive 5 inch barrel with Talo exclusive unfluted cylinder and a trigger job by a gun smith. A friend. Custom walnut checkered grips. Root walnut the curly one you see on very high end shotguns. It is a dream come true. Dry fire wet fire it is always in my hands. Cant get enough of it
I love my GP-100. Can't beat it for self defense and target shooting.
Awesome! I've been waiting for you to get a hold of a Match Champion. I got my earlier this year. I love it
What barrel length is this one he is using in the video?? 3 inch or 4?? It kind of looks like a 3, but I would like to make sure before buying one.
Mine does the same thing. Just bought it today. Shoots high and right.
I've owned a 6" GP 100, 3" S&W 686 and a 4" S&W 627 and enjoyed them all. I really like the look and feel on the GP Champ and when we get our right to " buy and walk " with our fire arms back next month I will be walking out with a Champion.
Which one handheld 357 best?? I need a new a trail gun, but would like to be able to hit something if necessary 😂
Ruger is renown for making a very ruggedly built revolver, but I've always favored Smith&Wesson mainly due to their triggers.
I never pulled a Smith revolver I didn't love, however, a nice 4" Ruger with a decent trigger job and that Novack low profile rear sight just might tempt me.
I have 2 686s love them. I just got the Ruger SP101 Wiley Clapp and now I might be getting this one for under 800. I love the 357 round
Man, I love semi-autos over revolvers generally, but that is indeed a beautiful revolver. I will say that, in general, revolvers are at least way more prettier than semi-autos.
Ruger makes incredible revolvers - I had a Taurus 856 UL (which was a pretty decent revolver) but I went down to my LGS and checked out a SP101 in .357 and it made my Taurus feel like a toy lol both are good but Ruger is extremely good
this is the exact revolver I own and it's great. really enjoy shooting it. Something about revolvers is fun to shoot, unload and reload. they are very satisfying. I also love to be able to go single or double action.
I have a blued, 6" GP-100 with a half lug barrel. Don't see many of those............ I put fiber optic front and rear sights on it, and it is by far my favorite gun..........(I like the old wood insert rubber grips, too).
I just bought a stainless 6" GP100 about a month ago. Fantastic firearm and I love how it looks. I put some neon optic sites on there which made it even better. I'd like to get a full wood grip at some point. But the rubber is very comfortable.
That is one great looking GP 100, and the Hogue grips are awesome. I am a S&W fan, but I love the old Speed Six, and the SP101.
Good looking firearm, durable and reliable and a 357 Magnum. What's not to like. As Clint Smith has said " Wheel Guns are Real Guns"
I have one of these on my list as my retirement gift to myself in just another year and a half. I reluctantly sold my 686 with a 6" barrel in 357 which i loved at the range a few years ago. I would like to try one as having a shorter sight radius than my previous wheelgun. The nice barrel and worked trigger of this gun I just bet it will be a fun long range plinker. I have medium sized hands and a K frame and a 357 mag cartridge has always just fit my well. I have fired many bigger and smaller but love 357. I would even like to try a .357 sig someday in a pistol. I just like those faster bullet speeds. I'm really surprised that cartridge isn't more popular than it is in the standard 9x19, 40, and 45acp in a pistol category. I only have my carry Ruger 9mm SR9c at the moment, and because of its very good trigger, it shoots surprisingly well, better than I will ever shoot it. Love the revolver videos, they are my favorite as everything is modern semi auto rifles in vids nowadays.That and the classic military rifles I enjoy. Thank you for all that you do for us shooting enthusiasts.
I fired a friends Taurus model 66, clone of the 686 at the range in 357. It was a newer model and I was pleasantly surprised with it. I would take one if the price was right. The trigger was nice, and the fit and finish was good for the money.
Thank you so much for showing off this beautiful firearm!
Me too, every time i watch this channel i end up buying another gun
Just picked up yesterday
Such a nice revolver
gp100s are very popular where i live my local gun shop has a tendency for them to sell out quick
I love smiths but the gp100 is my fav. Shot one last year. Currently saving up for my own.
Good video, Hickok45. The .357 magnum packs a punch. It was readily apparent out on the metal targets.
Just got mine today, the new 2015 model 1755 with rear adjustable site. Love it!
Gp 100 3” will my next pistol purchase 💯
I got one of the early ones (176-#####) serial number and I now use it exclusively for my annual HR-218 (LEOSA) qualifications. It is worth every dollar spent, and that is coming from a S&W guy at heart!
I can double the new shooter and .38 + heavy revolver combo. My Ruger Security-Six is always the fan favorite when it comes to introducing new shooters to the range.
I purchased a GP100 with a 6 inch barrel, blued, and I have to say that I am in love with this weapon !!! I know that Hickok45 has done two shows with a Ruger GP100 but both videos are with short barrels and I wish he would do one with a 6 inch. HEY HICKOK45!! What do you say about doing a video on a GP100, 6 inch? Can you humor this 'ol Oklahoma boy? He is right, these GP100's are built like tanks. They are not fine tuned like Smith revolver but none the less, they are reliable weapons. I did a lot of looking around at several different GP100's with various barrel lengths and the 6 in is really nice.. I like the longer barrel because assist with the recoil. I have shot .38 special, .38 special +P, .357 Mag through my weapon and it is just fun. I am thinking about purchasing another GP100 with a shorter barrel so I can use it as my carry weapon.
Thanks for your always "on-sight" reviews.
Really like that gun,I'm glad that they did work on the trigger.The GP 100's original trigger was not the best.