Ruger SP101 or SW .40 Shield
- Thread starter Cybersnow
- Start date
bofh
Banned
Whatever feels better for you. Choose the gun that you actually feel comfortable carrying and that you can hit your target with. Qualifying with a gun at a range is different from employing a gun in a self defense situation. This includes one-handed shooting, point shooting, shooting from retention, and shooting while moving.
I would probably carry the S&W .40 Shield, if I had to choose between both. More rounds than the SP101, thinner profile, and lighter weight. On the other hand, if you have issues with handling recoil (especially when shooting one-handed) the heavier revolver (potentially loaded with .38 Special +P instead of 357 Magnum) would be a better choice..
BTW: Which Ruger SP101? They come in different calibers and barrel lengths. I assumed 357 Magnum with 2.25" barrel.
I would probably carry the S&W .40 Shield, if I had to choose between both. More rounds than the SP101, thinner profile, and lighter weight. On the other hand, if you have issues with handling recoil (especially when shooting one-handed) the heavier revolver (potentially loaded with .38 Special +P instead of 357 Magnum) would be a better choice..
BTW: Which Ruger SP101? They come in different calibers and barrel lengths. I assumed 357 Magnum with 2.25" barrel.
Both guns feel good. The Ruger is actually a 331, which is the 3 inch barrel and I have a crimson trace grip on it. I originally bought it to be a house gun and to take camping. It is a good shooter and very simple to carry and I do carry .38+P instead of .357, though if I ever find myself in Alaska hiking through the wilderness (LOL) I might reconsider. I have thought about putting a crimson trace on the shield but not sure it makes much sense for a carry gun as it would only be deployed in close quarters. I go down on Wed for my final signing with the local California Sheriffs department and I think you may be right about the shield. Thanks
TailDragger
Range Safety Officer
I have a Springfield XDm that I rotate with my S&W Shield. I just recently got the SP101 .357mag in 2.25 inch and will be adding that to my rotation. I replaced the trigger/hammer springs in the SP and that brought the trigger pull more in line with my semi-automatics.
longslide10
New member
I carry an SP101 in 3" and sometimes I also carry at the same time an XDS in 45. It's good to have a backup
