I think every Ruger fan was a bit sad when Ruger discontinued the DA Six series (Security-Six, Service-Six, Speed-Six). After the last Speed-Six left the factory in 1988, there was a void in the Ruger line. The smallest Speed-Six had a 2 ¾” barrel and was similar to a 3” RB S&W K-frame in overall size. After 1988 there was no longer a “small” DA revolver in Ruger’s lineup but even the 2 ¾” Speed-Six wasn’t really that small. The first SP101 was produced in 1989, (a few probably came off the line in 1988) so the void in the line-up was addressed quickly. And for the first time in Ruger’s history, they offered a true snubnose DA revolver.
The SP101 is a stout gun by any measure. The original SP101 was chambered for 38 Special +P but it was strong enough for 357 magnum cartridges. However, the cylinder was only long enough to accommodate 357 magnum cartridges with 125 gr bullets. Ruger made about 3000 early SP101 revolvers chambered for 357 Magnum and marked the barrels “.357 Magnum 125-grain ammo only”. Ruger then lengthened the cylinders and frames of all their SP101 revolvers.
The SP101 has been made with 2 ¼” barrels, 3” (actually 3 1/16”) barrels and 4” barrels. When chambered in 38 Special or 357 Mag with the 2 ¼” barrel it is a true snubnose. In the 3” & 4” versions it is a handy gun with a svelte 5 shot cylinder.
The SP101 is incredibly strong, and not just the parts that contain the pressure of firing. The lock work is beefy, the frame and barrel are stout, the entire gun is a little anvil. I think the SP101 is one of the most under-rated, and under -appreciated small DA revolvers made.
I have owned a small pile of SPS101’s over the years. Never had one fail. My current examples are staying, both chambered in 38 Special, both early model “short frame” examples.