Ruger SP-101 vs. S&W Model 60

I need an education in small .357 wheel guns.

I had pretty much settled on a SP-101, and I even handled one at the LGS recently. It was the 3" version. It was all that I could do, to not whip out the visa.

I've been doing some surfin', and discovered the Model 60. It seems that a lot of people claim that it's one of S&Ws most underrated snubbies.

I know that the Ruger is built to last; I've never read a negative thing about it. But, I cannot find a head-to-head comparison of the two.

It looks like the only difference that I can really find on the surface, is that the Model 60 is a few ounces lighter, coming it at 22 ozs

http://www.smith-wesson.com/wcsstore...2420_01_md.jpg

But I am partial to Ruger, and the SP101 really fits my small hands well. Like I said, it's a little heavier than the 60 at 25 ozs

http://www.snipercompany.com/images/lg111.jpg

Which would you prefer? I've already decided that I want a small, stainless .357 with a bit of weight.

It's not going to see any pocket duty, I've already got a 442 for that.

SP101 is my choice. I love mine.

I don't think that you will notice any difference in 3 ounces when carrying. IMO when it comes to magnum revolvers you just can't beat a Ruger. Good luck with you decision.

I've had both...my Ruger is still around.:rolleyes:

I have a friend that is an "investigator" and he loves his SP101.

It's hard to go wrong with an SP101. I carry mine often!

I love almost everything that S&W has ever produced, but I have to say that the SP-101 takes this contest. The SP-101 is as tough as you will ever find in a small framed revolver... Yes it is stronger than the Model 60.

I also have to say that the SP and GP Rugers are just about the easiest revolvers to rework. A trigger job on a SP-101 is about as simple and straight forward as it gets. I did my own IBOK trigger job and the trigger breaks cleanly at 2.5lbs in SA and 4lbs in DA.

My shiny SP-101
http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/5161/sp101shine.jpg

• .357 Magnum 3" Barrel
• IBOK Trigger Job 2.5 lb SA / 4lb DA
• Mepro Night Sight
• Complete pistol dehorn and shine job
• Ugly lawyer roll-mark removal
• Hogue Grips

I think the weight difference, makes a difference, but the recoil management difference is huge. The SP handles mag recoil really well. Carry weight or shootability, it's your call.

I would have to vote for the Smith and Wesson. Why? You are looking at the 3 inch 357 mag. The Mod 60 has adjustable sights. The SP is only offered with adjustable sights in 327 FED.

I have had an S&W Model 60 (back in the '70s); I haven't owned an SP101. Both are excellent weapons, and I don't think either would be a bad choice. The M60 has adjustable sights which could snag on clothing and are of dubious value on a snubby. From what I have heard, the SP-101 is built so that you could drive a truck over it without damage. If I were looking for a new revolver right now, I would go for the SP-101 (DAO version so I didn't have to deal with the hammer snagging).

Smiths are beautiful guns, but you may appreciate the extra couple of ounces when shooting .357's through the Ruger. I have a few S&W's, and one Ruger SP101.

SP-101. Nothing wrong with the S&W but if your shooting .357 and I do then the Ruger is the way to go IMHO. My wife carries a S&W 638 with +p and it is a great carry gun (use to be my BUG).
Attachment 22890Attachment 22891

SP-101 S&W 638

Quote:

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Originally Posted by gglass

I love almost everything that S&W has ever produced, but I have to say that the SP-101 takes this contest. The SP-101 is as tough as you will ever find in a small framed revolver... Yes it is stronger than the Model 60.

I also have to say that the SP and GP Rugers are just about the easiest revolvers to rework. A trigger job on a SP-101 is about as simple and straight forward as it gets. I did my own IBOK trigger job and the trigger breaks cleanly at 2.5lbs in SA and 4lbs in DA.

My shiny SP-101
http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/5161/sp101shine.jpg

• .357 Magnum 3" Barrel
• IBOK Trigger Job 2.5 lb SA / 4lb DA
• Mepro Night Sight
• Complete pistol dehorn and shine job
• Ugly lawyer roll-mark removal
• Hogue Grips

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Sweeeeeeet looking SP101. You should go into business doing that.

I am usually the first person to whine about weight but in the case of the SP-101 I'm glad the weight it there. The thing is built like a tank and the extra OZ's are a good thing if you plan on putting a lot of rounds through the gun as they help soak up the recoil. I can comfortably shoot 100 rounds of .357's (My dad's slightly downloaded hand loads but still) without discomfort. On the flip side if weight is a concern for you I would say skip both and go for a LCR in .357. The trigger is better then both the 101 and the S&W.

Attachment 22892

SP 101 or a pre MIM model 60, which would put you in a mid 1990's or earlier.

Either one is a great choice, I opted for the SP101. All stainless steel and no MIM parts. They can also be had for less coin (generally speaking). I love my SP101, just wish I had waited for the 3" barrel version in my LGS. The 2" has worked out great so all is well.