Bought a "pre-owned" K6s the first time I saw one in the display case. It's been a great gun. Six months ago I purchased an SP101 in 9mm to use somewhat lower cost ammo and because the 9mm version is often available at a significant discount to the .357 Sp101. I've installed slightly longer Hogue grips on both guns so I can get my little finger on the grip. In both cases the grip change has improved the shooting experience. Specifically, the Hogue grip is a major improvement over the stock SP101 grip. They are both excellent revolvers and it would be difficult for me to choose one over the other. And I'm glad I don't have to.
I’d much rather have the Ruger SP101 9mm! I sold my SP101 in 357 mag/ 38 spl. because of it’s hammer and 5-shot capacity. SP101 is a “Great” revolver! I Got my K6s as my EDC now , hammerless, smooth trigger, night sights, and Beautiful & reliable revolver in every way! Kimber hit a HOME RUN with K6S!#Kimber#K6s#6(shot)#357 magnum/ 38 spl.#snubbie👑@tedphillips1099
Don't dry fire the K6s my firing pin broke off, quality control can be an issue with new guns. The SP101 is ok to dry fire, Ruger just has a lot more experience making revolvers
I've also owned a Ruger SP-101 for decades (since 1993?). True, it has one less round than the Kimber, but I definitely like the greater wall thickness between the round chambers than most compact .357 revolvers--I have no concerns about shooting full-power magnum loads and do so regularly. Oh, I forgot to mention that mine cost $310 new when Wal-Mart got rid of its revolvers (they decided to no longer sell handguns). What a deal for me!
FYI on the cost difference, that particular K6S is one of the more expensive variants, the "standard" K6S will be around $750, which would be more comparable to the SP-101 featured in the video. Conversely, depending on grip style and finish you chose you can easily end up spending more that $500 on a SP-101. I went with a K6S with the "control core" grips ($730 plus tax) which solves the exposed backstrap issue, and then ordered a set of the rubber grips from Kimber for $30 plus tax. The control core grips are for fun at the range, and the rubber grips are for carrying.
I vote for my SP101 .327 federal magnum w/ 3" barrel. The flash from a .357 w/ 2" barrel will blind you in the dark and shatter ear drums if you don't have time to put your earplugs in when an intruder breaks in.
Mark…..While it’s always wise to protect your hearing, during an unplanned shooting situation, such as a home break in, you will never hear the gun go off, nor remember the number of rounds fired…..and that’s certainly not the time to worry about your Howard Leights. Yes, I’m taking from experience…..although it was a LEO situation and we had a bit more “warning.” In the real world, your concerns will evaporate.
If you are strictly looking at 6-round 357 mag revolvers for concealment, nothing competes with the K6S on size and weight. With any 357 snub nose, you quickly realize that "comfortably" shooting a 357 mag is meant for a k-frame size revolver. With that said, shoot any airweight in 357 and then shoot the K6S, it's worth carrying the extra weight (and 1 extra shot)
09/2019 I just purchased NIB SP101 Wiley Clapp model, and I have to say the trigger pull was really gritty and hard, it sounded like a 1970’s Clunker definitely wasn’t impressed but I purchased it anyway. The guy at the gun store put a few drops of oil and it seemed like it smoothed out just a little bit. At home I already had new trigger and hammer shims , and new Wilson Combat trigger and hammer springs, both #10’s , ( all parts where under $25 )so I got to work immediately. After taking the gun apart I used 1500 sandpaper and gently smoothen out any rough edges without taking off any metal of course, and also used some stainless steel polish, as I was putting everything back I applied some oil with a Q-tip. Now it feels much better and hopefully I can go to the range and I have no lite primer strikes . I understand that after paying $716 for a firearm you shouldn’t have to work on it , but I do enjoy working on my firearms , and also I did choose it over the $1000 plus Kimber K6. Update: After shooting 38 and 357 the firearm ran with no problems . If I could do it all over it would be the Kimber
The trigger on this one did not seem gritty and we did not have to make any mods to it. It is not as nice as the Match Champion versions but it was not as rough as yours initially seemed to be.
Hammer Striker I also have the Match Champion and that does have a much nicer trigger. I don’t remember the trigger being so bad when I put a deposit down. After I picked it up I noticed it . I took the firearm apart everything seemed fine . It feels much nicer now after firing 100 rounds which half where 357. I did experience one problem that one round wasn’t sitting properly and it made the gun jam. I wonder how that happened? I kind of regret not buying the Kimber K6 hopefully my feelings change. Plus do you think I should go with a Wolf set instead of the Wilson Combat that I put in.
I have had the occasional out-of-spec round, sometimes a damaged case. Usually it happens with the cheap range ammo, that will cause the gun to malfunction by no fault of it's own. As far as Wolf vs Wilson - they both make high quality parts and I don't feel either one is better than the other. If it is working well with the Wilson springs then I would leave them in. At this point, the polishing you have done likely has eliminate the root cause and hopefully you will be good going forward.
The new sp101s are junk made with chinese injection molded parts. Get one pre-2010.. preferably mid 90's. They have *MUCH* better fit, finish and parts.
Ruger needs to buy a k-6 and figure out how to copy the cylinder so they can offer a SP101 model with 6 shots maybe you as one of their custom shop models with the dovetailed sights like they made in the past
I’ve owned both Ruger SP101 and Kimber K6s! I sold the Ruger because this Kimber K6s is a beast too and hammerless and that’s my preference and I’m a Kimber fan! This K6S trigger is the best and got my hammerless 357 magnum with 6 shots! The finest snub nose 357 I have owned!#Kimber❤#K6s
I have the Ruger SP 101 with a 3 inch barrel (just under). It’s been a great shooter for my wife and I. My wife keeps it in the bread box in the kitchen. We both normally carry Walther’s but the Ruger Is a gun that just keeps on giving. Have not handled the K6 so can’t comment regarding that particular revolver. Thanks for sharing.
Actually, at the NRA'S annual meeting in Indianapolis they just introduced a version of the K6S that has a rubberized grip that DOES cover the backstrap. It's designed to make shooting of magums more controllable and remove some of the bite. It's called the "control core" grip. Check out their website. The new grip style will also be available for separate purchase if you already have a K6S.
I am all about Ruger, so my vote is the time tested SP101. I even think it looks better. If you put the Hogue Tamer grips you can get for it, it would be even prettier. And even though you should practice 10x more with double action, you get the option for single action, which is a huge bonus.
FYI: from personal experience with the Ruger SP10 with the factory installed grips. You mentioned the exposed frame on the Kimber giving your thumb web a "love tap" when firing .357. With the SP101, as the grips DON'T extend under by the trigger guard, I noticed that on recoil with .357, the hoop of the trigger guard would come crashing into my firing hand middle finger, right between the first and second joints (from the finger tip)...and, if I think about it, I can STILL summon up the memory of that pain. And, I do mean pain. I immediately went out and bought some Hogue grips that covered that area, bringing rubber up to the bottom of the trigger guard, making it impossible to grip up behind the trigger guard, and problem solved. The Ruger's a nice pistol, but there's that one problem. I now have an SP101 in .357 and a Kimber 4" "Combat" DASA which I've yet to take to the range, but which fits my hand like a dream. I look forward to shooting and carrying it. Thanks for the dandy review.
Kimber k6 with three finger grip, 2 inch barrel, exposed hammer, blued Is the best J style frame revolver in the world for pocket carry. With a Glock 27 with three finger grip magazine extension 12 rounds one in battery. Both concealed. There is your combo gentlemen. No lose..
Get the SP101. The working man's gun that stands above the rest. Throw it against a brick wall & pick it up ready to fire. A Kimberly may not function if it's finish is not flawless.
I had an sp101 3” barrel and it is the gun I most regret selling I feel the 3” barrel is the sweet spot for concealed carry, unless you are looking for a pocket pistol. For most people the longer sight radius make a significant difference when it comes to accuracy. The Kimbers are really nice but not worth the extra 400 bucks as opposed to the Ruger
I have the SP101 and basically use it as a truck gun. I have an older video about that. The Kimber doesn't really appeal to me...I think it's the non-traditional design that I don't particularly like.
I am sure the Kimber K6s is a solid reliable revolver but it is simply not worth the $850 price tag. And the trigger on the Kimber is not any better than what is usually found on a Smith and Wesson revolver. Heck, I replaced the trigger return spring on my SP101 with a lighter spring and it's now just as good as the Kimber K6s. I will give credit to the Kimber for having a three dot sight system. It's about time somebody put that on a revolver. But other than that the gun is over hyped and over priced. If the price was more like $600 I could be persuaded to buy one. But not $850.
Kimber for the win. If Ruger had put 6 shots in the SP101, then it might go the other way. With only 5 shots, the Ruger just doesn't justify the additional size and weight over the much lighter J frame.
Hi HS, I watch and 👍 all your vids, but you really dropped the ball this time. The biggest difference between them is not the $$$ but that the Ruger is a 5 shot & the Kimber is a 6 shot. This is the Kimber's main claim to fame. The Kimber is the world's smallest 6rd 357 revolver! How could you possibly miss that??? I watched the vid 2X to be sure I didn't miss you stating this fact. Sorry but 👎
Just bought a k6s hammerless in stainless finish...there were about 10 people in the area and 4 of them mentioned what a beautiful gun the k6s was before the buying process was completed. If u say this is not a good lookin sixer you just dont have good taste. The ruger is great too...i also have a bobbed hammer in 357...the finish quality is so-so at best and the ejection rod rattles about something awful. It needs to be a larger diameter if u ask me....other than those two gripes its a great little gun.
@@broot1375 part of my retirement savings plan is investing in guns I invest a lot of money in guns I have more kimber's the most Kimber dealers. I have more guns the most gun shops, i do collect a lot of high-end guns. I don't have a lot of 3 and $4,000 gun but I have many $2,000 guns. Staxk this Kimber revolver with its bobbed Hammer up against a vintage python a 629 Classic a 686 a security 6 or Dan Wesson and it falls up short the damn thing is f****** ugly. It looks like what high point would design of it was making a revolver. you're welcome to your opinion but if you truly think of this is a great-looking revolver you have no class. I am not saying I won't buy one, but I sure won't be wearing it at a bar b que.
@@jackdundon2261 I wear it in my suit because the Kimber seems like much more of the gentleman's gun and you just can't beat the DAO for carry. I will agree the blued version of the Kimber is ugly AF and the silver 3inch is much more beautiful
Sp101 is a great gun.I've had mine for over 25yrs.Built like a tank.I enjoy your videos.
Thank you. The SP101 is definitely a solid and reliable revolver.
Bought a "pre-owned" K6s the first time I saw one in the display case. It's been a great gun. Six months ago I purchased an SP101 in 9mm to use somewhat lower cost ammo and because the 9mm version is often available at a significant discount to the .357 Sp101. I've installed slightly longer Hogue grips on both guns so I can get my little finger on the grip. In both cases the grip change has improved the shooting experience. Specifically, the Hogue grip is a major improvement over the stock SP101 grip. They are both excellent revolvers and it would be difficult for me to choose one over the other. And I'm glad I don't have to.
I’d much rather have the Ruger SP101 9mm! I sold my SP101 in 357 mag/ 38 spl. because of it’s hammer and 5-shot capacity. SP101 is a “Great” revolver! I Got my K6s as my EDC now , hammerless, smooth trigger, night sights, and Beautiful & reliable revolver in every way! Kimber hit a HOME RUN with K6S!#Kimber#K6s#6(shot)#357 magnum/ 38 spl.#snubbie👑@tedphillips1099
I have the stainless kimber k6s and the k6xs both great guns
Don't dry fire the K6s my firing pin broke off, quality control can be an issue with new guns. The SP101 is ok to dry fire, Ruger just has a lot more experience making revolvers
Firing pins broke due to material used. They switched from ti to SS.
I've also owned a Ruger SP-101 for decades (since 1993?). True, it has one less round than the Kimber, but I definitely like the greater wall thickness between the round chambers than most compact .357 revolvers--I have no concerns about shooting full-power magnum loads and do so regularly. Oh, I forgot to mention that mine cost $310 new when Wal-Mart got rid of its revolvers (they decided to no longer sell handguns). What a deal for me!
Thankyou, as an owner of an sp101 I've been wanting a comparison video to aid my decision in buying a k6s.
One less ammo, but SP101 over Kimber anytime day or night. If I have a choice, 6 shot .327 Fed Mag SP101. 👍
FYI on the cost difference, that particular K6S is one of the more expensive variants, the "standard" K6S will be around $750, which would be more comparable to the SP-101 featured in the video. Conversely, depending on grip style and finish you chose you can easily end up spending more that $500 on a SP-101. I went with a K6S with the "control core" grips ($730 plus tax) which solves the exposed backstrap issue, and then ordered a set of the rubber grips from Kimber for $30 plus tax. The control core grips are for fun at the range, and the rubber grips are for carrying.
I've never seen any variant of the K6S for any less than $900. I'm sure it's a good gun but Kimber is asking too much money for it.
I vote for my SP101 .327 federal magnum w/ 3" barrel. The flash from a .357 w/ 2" barrel will blind you in the dark and shatter ear drums if you don't have time to put your earplugs in when an intruder breaks in.
So use the .32 HR magnum indoors then or if you have the .357 then shoot .38 special indoors. Problem solved.
Mark…..While it’s always wise to protect your hearing, during an unplanned shooting situation, such as a home break in, you will never hear the gun go off, nor remember the number of rounds fired…..and that’s certainly not the time to worry about your Howard Leights.
Yes, I’m taking from experience…..although it was a LEO situation and we had a bit more “warning.”
In the real world, your concerns will evaporate.
I have the K6S and it's a sweet shooter. I want the SP101 as it's backup.
How could you have forgotten to mention that the Kimber has one shot more??? That is crucial!!!
@bert smith Buy the Ruger. I want the Kimber- 😉
Because he's a dumb ass, that's why
Not if you're a good shot. You only need one round
Obviously 🙄
@@tanishazoa138 Sure, and if you are a jedi, you don’t even need a firearm, but in this video are two revolvers compared to each other.🙂
If you are strictly looking at 6-round 357 mag revolvers for concealment, nothing competes with the K6S on size and weight. With any 357 snub nose, you quickly realize that "comfortably" shooting a 357 mag is meant for a k-frame size revolver. With that said, shoot any airweight in 357 and then shoot the K6S, it's worth carrying the extra weight (and 1 extra shot)
09/2019
I just purchased NIB SP101 Wiley Clapp model, and I have to say the trigger pull was really gritty and hard, it sounded like a 1970’s Clunker definitely wasn’t impressed but I purchased it anyway.
The guy at the gun store put a few drops of oil and it seemed like it smoothed out just a little bit.
At home I already had new trigger and hammer shims , and new Wilson Combat trigger and hammer springs, both #10’s , ( all parts where under $25 )so I got to work immediately.
After taking the gun apart I used 1500 sandpaper and gently smoothen out any rough edges without taking off any metal of course, and also used some stainless steel polish, as I was putting everything back I applied some oil with a Q-tip.
Now it feels much better and hopefully I can go to the range and I have no lite primer strikes .
I understand that after paying $716 for a firearm you shouldn’t have to work on it , but I do enjoy working on my firearms , and also I did choose it over the $1000 plus Kimber K6.
Update: After shooting 38 and 357 the firearm ran with no problems .
If I could do it all over it would be the Kimber
The trigger on this one did not seem gritty and we did not have to make any mods to it. It is not as nice as the Match Champion versions but it was not as rough as yours initially seemed to be.
Hammer Striker
I also have the Match Champion and that does have a much nicer trigger.
I don’t remember the trigger being so bad when I put a deposit down.
After I picked it up I noticed it .
I took the firearm apart everything seemed fine .
It feels much nicer now after firing 100 rounds which half where 357.
I did experience one problem that one round wasn’t sitting properly and it made the gun jam.
I wonder how that happened?
I kind of regret not buying the Kimber K6 hopefully my feelings change.
Plus do you think I should go with a Wolf set instead of the Wilson Combat that I put in.
I have had the occasional out-of-spec round, sometimes a damaged case. Usually it happens with the cheap range ammo, that will cause the gun to malfunction by no fault of it's own. As far as Wolf vs Wilson - they both make high quality parts and I don't feel either one is better than the other. If it is working well with the Wilson springs then I would leave them in. At this point, the polishing you have done likely has eliminate the root cause and hopefully you will be good going forward.
The new sp101s are junk made with chinese injection molded parts. Get one pre-2010.. preferably mid 90's. They have *MUCH* better fit, finish and parts.
Ruger needs to buy a k-6 and figure out how to copy the cylinder so they can offer a SP101 model with 6 shots maybe you as one of their custom shop models with the dovetailed sights like they made in the past
I’ve owned both Ruger SP101 and Kimber K6s! I sold the Ruger because this Kimber K6s is a beast too and hammerless and that’s my preference and I’m a Kimber fan! This K6S trigger is the best and got my hammerless 357 magnum with 6 shots! The finest snub nose 357 I have owned!#Kimber❤#K6s
Action jobs and Wolff Springs will make that SP101 a dream to run the trigger.
I have the Ruger SP 101 with a 3 inch barrel (just under). It’s been a great shooter for my wife and I. My wife keeps it in the bread box in the kitchen. We both normally carry Walther’s but the Ruger Is a gun that just keeps on giving. Have not handled the K6 so can’t comment regarding that particular revolver. Thanks for sharing.
You definitely cannot go wrong with the Ruger. It seems that the Kimber will be reliable from our experience with it, but the SP1010 is very proven.
Actually, at the NRA'S annual meeting in Indianapolis they just introduced a version of the K6S that has a rubberized grip that DOES cover the backstrap. It's designed to make shooting of magums more controllable and remove some of the bite. It's called the "control core" grip. Check out their website. The new grip style will also be available for separate purchase if you already have a K6S.
I am all about Ruger, so my vote is the time tested SP101. I even think it looks better. If you put the Hogue Tamer grips you can get for it, it would be even prettier. And even though you should practice 10x more with double action, you get the option for single action, which is a huge bonus.
Of course the K6S is also available with an exposed hammer spur for double action.
FYI: from personal experience with the Ruger SP10 with the factory installed grips. You mentioned the exposed frame on the Kimber giving your thumb web a "love tap" when firing .357. With the SP101, as the grips DON'T extend under by the trigger guard, I noticed that on recoil with .357, the hoop of the trigger guard would come crashing into my firing hand middle finger, right between the first and second joints (from the finger tip)...and, if I think about it, I can STILL summon up the memory of that pain. And, I do mean pain. I immediately went out and bought some Hogue grips that covered that area, bringing rubber up to the bottom of the trigger guard, making it impossible to grip up behind the trigger guard, and problem solved. The Ruger's a nice pistol, but there's that one problem. I now have an SP101 in .357 and a Kimber 4" "Combat" DASA which I've yet to take to the range, but which fits my hand like a dream. I look forward to shooting and carrying it. Thanks for the dandy review.
Two of my favorite revolvers want to see someting like that. I believe the ruguer is better to shoot 3.57 magnums that the Kimber.
Please explain.
I vote SP101
SP-101 .357 all the way.
Thank you
Good shot!
Thank you.
Kimber k6 with three finger grip, 2 inch barrel, exposed hammer, blued
Is the best J style frame revolver in the world for pocket carry.
With a Glock 27 with three finger grip magazine extension 12 rounds one in battery. Both concealed.
There is your combo gentlemen.
No lose..
Exposed hammer for pocket carry? You must have never carried a revolver in the pocket.
Handbag 👜 also I want single action as my option if I’m in a barricade situation such a bathroom or super market need that extra nano second.
@@veronicaedwards5995 Single action: NO.
Glock 30 with a sp101 and a spare 30rd mag in the bag.... 🙏🏽
I think the Kimber looks better!
A little better but not much. Not enough to justify the $350 more you will spend on the Kimber over the Ruger.
No wayyy
I don't agree. I think the ruger is better looking and has time tested reliability
I'm looking fro a comp on the SA\DA Kimber but I can't find one. That would be the real test.
Get the SP101. The working man's gun that stands above the rest. Throw it against a brick wall & pick it up ready to fire.
A Kimberly may not function if it's finish is not flawless.
I had an sp101 3” barrel and it is the gun I most regret selling I feel the 3” barrel is the sweet spot for concealed carry, unless you are looking for a pocket pistol. For most people the longer sight radius make a significant difference when it comes to accuracy. The Kimbers are really nice but not worth the extra 400 bucks as opposed to the Ruger
Got the 4 in barrel on my sp101 and can easily conceal it but I'm a bigger guy also
He didn't even mention the fact the K6s holds one more round than the SP101.
👍 SP-101
I've got a new acquisition that will make you smile.
I have the SP101 and basically use it as a truck gun. I have an older video about that. The Kimber doesn't really appeal to me...I think it's the non-traditional design that I don't particularly like.
Be careful,dont pick one up
Kimber K6S 2, 3, Or 4 inch barrel.
Ruger has a bobbed hammer for the 101. Makes the gun snag proof and double action only.
I am sure the Kimber K6s is a solid reliable revolver but it is simply not worth the $850 price tag. And the trigger on the Kimber is not any better than what is usually found on a Smith and Wesson revolver. Heck, I replaced the trigger return spring on my SP101 with a lighter spring and it's now just as good as the Kimber K6s. I will give credit to the Kimber for having a three dot sight system. It's about time somebody put that on a revolver. But other than that the gun is over hyped and over priced. If the price was more like $600 I could be persuaded to buy one. But not $850.
Kimber for the win. If Ruger had put 6 shots in the SP101, then it might go the other way. With only 5 shots, the Ruger just doesn't justify the additional size and weight over the much lighter J frame.
Why you put som non sens shooting images at the beginning? I got to skip part of the video.
You can get a kimber of buds gun shop for 650
The Rugers "clean up well" though.
Ruger any day of the week.
Not with only 5 shots I'm afraid. Might as well get a much lighter J frame if that's the case.
SP101 all the way
I have both. The K6 is a better revolver, and I don't think it is even close.
Sp-101 WC has Novak sights
SP101 handles magnum loads better. Shots like a bigger gun too
I'll take the K6S
Of course the big difference is the Kimber has six rounds 😎
Take My Sp101 Over A K6 Anyday..
Hi HS,
I watch and 👍 all your vids, but you really dropped the ball this time. The biggest difference between them is not the $$$ but that the Ruger is a 5 shot & the Kimber is a 6 shot. This is the Kimber's main claim to fame. The Kimber is the world's smallest 6rd 357 revolver!
How could you possibly miss that??? I watched the vid 2X to be sure I didn't miss you stating this fact. Sorry but 👎
The Kimber is absolutely beautiful. The Ruger is the quality you expect from a Ruger.... low.
Kimbers are known for being overpriced
Kimber looks to me like folded sheetmetal.
Boy are you wrong
@@johnnyjohnson1370 forreal the Kimber looks much more like the gentleman's revolver especially in silver 3 inch version
Bad review bad audio
I think Ruger is now marketing a “blued” model which makes it look less cheap.
You think stainless looks cheap? Lol
I've had both blued and stainless, and I think stainless looks like precious metal and the blued looks cheap! @@adamdrouin2295
The Kimber could have 'patriot missle' accuracy, but dam its fugly!
Not a bit ugly
I agree! It is an ugly looking weapon, and overpriced as well!!
I’ll stick with my SP101 thank you!!
Just bought a k6s hammerless in stainless finish...there were about 10 people in the area and 4 of them mentioned what a beautiful gun the k6s was before the buying process was completed. If u say this is not a good lookin sixer you just dont have good taste. The ruger is great too...i also have a bobbed hammer in 357...the finish quality is so-so at best and the ejection rod rattles about something awful. It needs to be a larger diameter if u ask me....other than those two gripes its a great little gun.
@@broot1375 part of my retirement savings plan is investing in guns I invest a lot of money in guns I have more kimber's the most Kimber dealers.
I have more guns the most gun shops, i do collect a lot of high-end guns. I don't have a lot of 3 and $4,000 gun but I have many $2,000 guns.
Staxk this Kimber revolver with its bobbed Hammer up against a vintage python a 629 Classic a 686 a security 6 or Dan Wesson and it falls up short the damn thing is f****** ugly. It looks like what high point would design of it was making a revolver.
you're welcome to your opinion but if you truly think of this is a great-looking revolver you have no class. I am not saying I won't buy one, but I sure won't be wearing it at a bar b que.
@@jackdundon2261 I wear it in my suit because the Kimber seems like much more of the gentleman's gun and you just can't beat the DAO for carry. I will agree the blued version of the Kimber is ugly AF and the silver 3inch is much more beautiful