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Alaskan vs 4" GP100 - handling?

4K views 4 replies 5 participants last post by  kd7kmp 
#1 ·
I've got an Alaskan. I have small hands, but recently installed a walnut grip by Badger. I sanded the pointy parts away, so my fingers can go where they want. If the roads dry out around here, I'll take it shooting shortly...I think it will work OK.

I also have a J-frame 357, which shoots nice but always seems a bit small.

My next gun will be a medium frame revolver...maybe a S&W Model 10 (it seems to me to be a classic in a minimalistic sort of way - everything you NEED in a self-defense gun, and nothing more), or maybe a GP100 with a 4 inch barrel.

The Alaskan seems to handle a bit heavy (sluggish?) in pointing to me...OK for a 44 mag, but not needed for a 357. How does a GP100 compare for handling with an Alaskan? Any thoughts? FWIW, I like the Alaskan's trigger, and I know a GP100 could shoot 357s forever without a hiccup, so it is a serious contender. My wallet won't let me buy again until this winter anyways. :mad:
 
#4 ·
You said the Alaskan is heavy for you and the listed weight is 41 oz. If you go to the Ruger web site you can look up the spec's on the various firearms that Ruger makes. The 4" GP-100 weighs in at 40 oz so I doubt you will notice a weight difference. It does balance well with the 4" BBL so that helps and the older grips with the inserts may fit your hands better than the hogues they carry now. I own a GP and it is an excellent firearm and will last longer than I will.

Another option you haven't listed would be a 3" SP101. At 27 oz it is substantially lighter, chambered in 357 mag with 5 shots or 327 mag for 6. The grips are somewhat smaller than the GP insert grips and is another rugged revolver from ruger. Try it you'll like it.

I suggest you go to your local retailer and get the feel of both or many of them and see which one feels better to you in your hands, points the most naturally and that will likely shoot the best for you. Good luck.
 
#5 ·
I have only handled an Alaskan but I have shot the GP100 (4" barrel) a lot. Speaking subjectively the Alaskan may come up quick, but if feels slower than my GP100. My GP100 feels quicker because it feels better balanced. The grip is also easier for me to handle.

Kevin
 
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