Which gun? - The Firearms Forum

Gun Geezer · 03-02-2011, 11:05 AM

Which would you buy and why? The SP101-.357 mag. or The LCR-.357 mag.
Keep in mind this would be for EDC, not for a range gun, an occasional shooter to keep in practice and for when TSHTF.

Warith · 03-02-2011, 11:13 AM

SP101 with outa doubt.

Reason its a simple revolver not a lot can go wrong where as the LCR is actualy an automatic with a revolving magazine lots to go wrong there. So if your looking for an EDC weapon then it has to be the SP101 imho.

Helix_FR · 03-02-2011, 11:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Warith

SP101 with outa doubt.

LCR is actualy an automatic with a revolving magazine lots to go wrong there.

Its a DA revolver, nothing automatic about it.

The 101 is way heavier but way more controllable and for something that may ride around in a glovebox, its a better way to go.

MSGT-R · 03-02-2011, 11:27 AM

Depends upon your use for it.

Example: A small female would be better off with a .380 w/hollow points; easier to conceal carry or carry in a fanny pack/purse.. more rounds than a derringer and smaller than a 9mm.

Gun Geezer · 03-02-2011, 11:52 AM

Ruger is touting the new cam action trigger on the LCR as something wonderful. I'm just thinking the LCR weighs almost 10 oz. less than the SP101, something to consider for EDC. The recoil from my S&W 342 Ti. and Kel-Tec P3AT doesn't bother me so I don't thing it would be a deal breaker, but I sure like the looks of the SP101 better than the LCR. I need some convincing reasons to buy one over the other.

Double D · 03-02-2011, 11:55 AM

For concealed carry, the lcr is the way to go mainly because of weight. I would prefer the 101, but as mentioned they are heavier. I am not sure what the automatic with a revolving magazine meant since they are both revolvers. Maybe warith can explain this to us.

Helix_FR · 03-02-2011, 12:04 PM

The camming trigger is better than before but not absolutely stellar. Want some encouragement? Shoot 20 rounds of 357 though a LCR then shoot 20 rounds of 357 though a 101. The 101 your ready to shoot more. The LCR you may want a break. I've shot both. Both are good guns but the LCR with 357 bit hard, the 101 was way more controllable. If the SHTF you aint gonna care about weight, your gonna want rugged. EDC really depends on were you plan on carrying it too. IWB with a 101 is manageable but noticeable.

fleetwood1976 · 03-02-2011, 05:32 PM

sp-101 here

gdmoody · 03-02-2011, 07:37 PM

I have one of the "older" LCRs in 38 Special, I thought the trigger was really good on that one, especially for something that is single action. I like the LCR and if this were a voting thread, I would vote for it.

Old Guy · 03-02-2011, 09:39 PM

For the stated purpose it would be the LCR. A heavier gun is not as hard on you at the range but for CC purposes the LCR would win. At least in my opinion anyway. Buy both and then you won't have the conflict.

noslolo · 03-03-2011, 12:21 AM

For everyday carry I would have to go with the LCR. Thats what it was built for. I like the SP101, but it is a heavy hunk of metal to carry around.

Inthewind1976 · 03-11-2011, 02:27 AM

I had an SP101 and it was an excellent, robust, comfortable, and handsome revolver. And then I sold it. The reason? I bought a Smith 37 and after carrying it ONCE, I realized the 101 would never leave the nitestand or the glovebox again. TOOO DAMNED HEAVY for its size. I would choose the LCR hands down. Now, THATS JUST ME.........but the difference is unbelievable, if you are actually gonna CARRY.

doug66 · 03-11-2011, 04:50 AM

SP101 to ride in the truck and the LCR to ride in the pocket.

carver · 03-11-2011, 09:37 AM

IMHO, the LCR cost more, but is lighter. The 101 cost less, but not that much, and is heavier. I haven't shot the LCR, but I do own an SP101. I used to shoot a lot of 38's in it, but stopped when I found out that I built up a ridge in the cylinder, and would no longer take the .357 round untill I cleaned it really good. I don't shoot it anymore because of recoil with full load .357's, it is just brutal! I own, and shoot a .44Mag with a 5" barrel, and love it, so I know a little about recoil, and the little 101 has more than I care for! Two things come to my mind on this topic. One is that the .357 is notorious for over penitration. You might shoot a BG, and still hit an inocent bystander. Not good! The second is that it is critical to be able to place your shoots where you want them, and it is my experience with the 101 that this is almost imposible for me. I also own, shoot, and love my .44spcl. Bull Dog. I can handel the recoil from it, and the 44Mag, but not the 101! And because of this I can't hit squat with my .357! Carry a gun that you like, a gun that will get the job done, and make sure you can hit with it, both on the range, and (God forbid) in a real engagement. Ease of carry does come into play, but only because if the gun isn't comfortable enough you won't have it on you if he need arises. Power, size of bullet, recoil, loudness, none of this matters if you can't hit what you shoot at!

lucky-gunner · 03-11-2011, 08:48 PM

It depends on if you are planning on shooting much 357 mag out of them. If so I would suggest getting the SP101. If you are going to run primarily 38 spl the LCR is a fine choice. I don't think shooting the LCR with 357 is much fun. The SP101 is a lot easier to handle with full power rounds.

Both are great but my choice would be a SP101. I prefer the looks of a steel revolver also.

American Leader · 03-11-2011, 08:52 PM

LCR for CC, lighter weight

Old John · 03-12-2011, 08:03 AM

I've been carrying my Ruger SP101, for close to 8 years, for EDC, whenever I'm awake.
Last Summer, bought an LCR, in .38 special, for a pocket pistol, before the .357 mag. LCR was on the market. The .357 LCR will be my next purchase, one of these days.
I still carry the SP101 every day, all day, unless I'm dressing up, and need the LCR for a pocket pistol. Each of my Rugers has a different purpose.
I live Rural, on 13 acres, out in the woods. I can go out to the target stand & shoot whenever the weather suits me.
I mostly load the SP101 with .357 mag., 110gr. HJLHP's. It's a nice shooter. I do not have any doubts about taking care of business, or being undergunned with either revolver.
This is just my experience. Whatever works for you.

TheGunClinger · 03-12-2011, 08:46 AM

I got the SP-101 and the LCR .38. I like them both but the SP is way too heavy and kinda too big to conceal well in Florida. The LCR is perfect for me to carry. Now I want the LCR .357 but havnt found any around here.

dragman · 03-12-2011, 10:57 AM

LCR!! hands down an awesome pistol! I love the 101 but the LCR does just as much and is more versitile IMHO.

ozo · 03-12-2011, 06:45 PM

I would get the LCR in .38, it is comfortable to shoot in a small pistol,
and I would go all out and get the LG model. [For a CCW between the guns stated above.]
LCR-LG .38 Special Crimson Trace® Lasergrips® Replaceable front sight, Pinned Ramp 1.31" 13.00 oz.
.357 is pretty hard on you [LCR] if you are gonna shoot it very much, and the LG is nice.
Personally, if I was going to carry a .357 revolver, I would get a Blackhawk, and then in a .45 and get the convertible. I realize this is way out of proportion for CCW from the two you mentioned, but if you are going to shoot a lot, you will be happier.
That's why I suggest a .38 LCR-LG.
I am a BIG fan of .357, hunted deer for years with a stainless Blackhawk, and LOVE shooting .357 in rifles.
There is plenty of 'self protection' ammo for the .38 and you will shoot it more, and more enjoyably, than
the .357 in a short barrel.
But, all that said, there is plenty of choices still, here in America.
In my opinion, a pistol for CCW and a pistol I will fire a lot at the range are completely different gun choices.
I hope this makes sense.
[and I did NOT keep in mind it was for EDC---after my rant-sorry]
I would still go LCR-LG .38

jimjc · 03-13-2011, 09:40 AM

my $.02....I shot the Lcr and it sucks to shoot period.....That`s not to say it isn`t good for what it it is......but I believe it`s the beginnings of a throw-away future gun that you can`t use to shoot but for a few rounds.... it`s just for selfdefence....Plus it`s to much money for what it is..

If you want a gun to LAST AND TO SHOOT and be able to hit something at something farther than 10 feet get the SP101....A really good all around gun you can own for years and it will still be worth something in the end....Jim

mesinge2 · 03-13-2011, 10:56 AM

I'll let actual use speak for itself.

The video below is my SP101 with 158 gr. Hornady XTP loads at 14 yards.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKEKrJMAQV8

03-02-2011, 11:05 AM	#1
Gun Geezer Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Central Florida Posts: 1,710	Which gun? Which would you buy and why? The SP101-.357 mag. or The LCR-.357 mag. Keep in mind this would be for EDC, not for a range gun, an occasional shooter to keep in practice and for when TSHTF. -->

03-02-2011, 11:13 AM	#2
Warith V.I.P. Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Belton, Mo Posts: 287	Re: Which gun? SP101 with outa doubt. Reason its a simple revolver not a lot can go wrong where as the LCR is actualy an automatic with a revolving magazine lots to go wrong there. So if your looking for an EDC weapon then it has to be the SP101 imho.

03-02-2011, 11:27 AM	#4
MSGT-R Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: SoCal Posts: 898	Re: Which gun? Depends upon your use for it. Example: A small female would be better off with a .380 w/hollow points; easier to conceal carry or carry in a fanny pack/purse.. more rounds than a derringer and smaller than a 9mm. __________________ If you suck, go back to the range.

03-02-2011, 11:52 AM	#5
Gun Geezer Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Central Florida Posts: 1,710	Re: Which gun? Ruger is touting the new cam action trigger on the LCR as something wonderful. I'm just thinking the LCR weighs almost 10 oz. less than the SP101, something to consider for EDC. The recoil from my S&W 342 Ti. and Kel-Tec P3AT doesn't bother me so I don't thing it would be a deal breaker, but I sure like the looks of the SP101 better than the LCR. I need some convincing reasons to buy one over the other.

03-02-2011, 11:55 AM	#6
Double D TFF Moderator/Host Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: North Florida Contributor Posts: 8,049	Re: Which gun? For concealed carry, the lcr is the way to go mainly because of weight. I would prefer the 101, but as mentioned they are heavier. I am not sure what the automatic with a revolving magazine meant since they are both revolvers. Maybe warith can explain this to us. __________________ I own a bunch of scary guns. You want em? Come and take em..... Liberalism is a serious, non curable, mental disorder... NRA LIFE MEMBER Oath Keepers Member NRA Certified Instructor 30 Yr CC permit holder.

03-02-2011, 12:04 PM	#7
Helix_FR TFF Moderator/Host Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Imperial, MO Posts: 3,617	Re: Which gun? The camming trigger is better than before but not absolutely stellar. Want some encouragement? Shoot 20 rounds of 357 though a LCR then shoot 20 rounds of 357 though a 101. The 101 your ready to shoot more. The LCR you may want a break. I've shot both. Both are good guns but the LCR with 357 bit hard, the 101 was way more controllable. If the SHTF you aint gonna care about weight, your gonna want rugged. EDC really depends on were you plan on carrying it too. IWB with a 101 is manageable but noticeable. __________________ Only cowards shoot with their eyes closed.... helixgunsmith.com Last edited by Helix_FR; 03-02-2011 at 12:08 PM..

03-02-2011, 05:32 PM	#8
fleetwood1976 Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Southern Indiana Contributor Posts: 1,333	Re: Which gun? sp-101 here

03-02-2011, 07:37 PM	#9
gdmoody Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Northeast Georgia Contributor Posts: 6,306	Re: Which gun? I have one of the "older" LCRs in 38 Special, I thought the trigger was really good on that one, especially for something that is single action. I like the LCR and if this were a voting thread, I would vote for it. __________________ NRA Endowment Member GeorgiaCarry.Org Member Retired US Army Postal Worker Personally, I carry a gun because I'm too young to die and too old to take an ass whoopin'.....author unknown (but obviously brilliant)

03-02-2011, 09:39 PM	#10
Old Guy V.I.P. Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Beaufort County, NC Contributor Posts: 342	Re: Which gun? For the stated purpose it would be the LCR. A heavier gun is not as hard on you at the range but for CC purposes the LCR would win. At least in my opinion anyway. Buy both and then you won't have the conflict. __________________ Old Guy ___________ NRA Life Member GOA Life Member

03-03-2011, 12:21 AM	#11
noslolo Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Johnstown PA Posts: 1,558	Re: Which gun? For everyday carry I would have to go with the LCR. Thats what it was built for. I like the SP101, but it is a heavy hunk of metal to carry around. __________________ I'm a heck of a "obesito illegitimo"

03-11-2011, 02:27 AM	#12
Inthewind1976 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Central Pennsylvania Posts: 533	Re: Which gun? I had an SP101 and it was an excellent, robust, comfortable, and handsome revolver. And then I sold it. The reason? I bought a Smith 37 and after carrying it ONCE, I realized the 101 would never leave the nitestand or the glovebox again. TOOO DAMNED HEAVY for its size. I would choose the LCR hands down. Now, THATS JUST ME.........but the difference is unbelievable, if you are actually gonna CARRY.

03-11-2011, 04:50 AM	#13
doug66 Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Kansas Posts: 538	Re: Which gun? SP101 to ride in the truck and the LCR to ride in the pocket.

03-11-2011, 09:37 AM	#14
carver TFF Moderator/Host Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: DAV, Deep in the Pineywoods of East Texas, just west of Shreveport, LA Contributor Posts: 11,221	Re: Which gun? IMHO, the LCR cost more, but is lighter. The 101 cost less, but not that much, and is heavier. I haven't shot the LCR, but I do own an SP101. I used to shoot a lot of 38's in it, but stopped when I found out that I built up a ridge in the cylinder, and would no longer take the .357 round untill I cleaned it really good. I don't shoot it anymore because of recoil with full load .357's, it is just brutal! I own, and shoot a .44Mag with a 5" barrel, and love it, so I know a little about recoil, and the little 101 has more than I care for! Two things come to my mind on this topic. One is that the .357 is notorious for over penitration. You might shoot a BG, and still hit an inocent bystander. Not good! The second is that it is critical to be able to place your shoots where you want them, and it is my experience with the 101 that this is almost imposible for me. I also own, shoot, and love my .44spcl. Bull Dog. I can handel the recoil from it, and the 44Mag, but not the 101! And because of this I can't hit squat with my .357! Carry a gun that you like, a gun that will get the job done, and make sure you can hit with it, both on the range, and (God forbid) in a real engagement. Ease of carry does come into play, but only because if the gun isn't comfortable enough you won't have it on you if he need arises. Power, size of bullet, recoil, loudness, none of this matters if you can't hit what you shoot at! __________________ Y'all be safe now, ya hear! Lamentations Chapter 5: 1. Remember, O LORD, what is come upon us: consider, and behold our reproach. 2. Our inheritance is turned to strangers, our houses to aliens. 3. We are orphans and fatherless, our mothers [are] as widows. 5. Our necks [are] under persecution: we labour, [and] have no rest. 16. The crown is fallen [from] our head: woe unto us, that we have sinned! 21. Turn thou us unto thee, O LORD, and we shall be turned; renew our days as of old.

03-11-2011, 08:48 PM	#15
lucky-gunner V.I.P. Member Join Date: May 2010 Posts: 63	Re: Which gun? It depends on if you are planning on shooting much 357 mag out of them. If so I would suggest getting the SP101. If you are going to run primarily 38 spl the LCR is a fine choice. I don't think shooting the LCR with 357 is much fun. The SP101 is a lot easier to handle with full power rounds. Both are great but my choice would be a SP101. I prefer the looks of a steel revolver also. __________________ 45 ACP Ammo

03-11-2011, 08:52 PM	#16
American Leader Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Iowa Contributor Posts: 1,630	Re: Which gun? LCR for CC, lighter weight

03-12-2011, 08:03 AM	#17
Old John Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Posts: 49	Re: Which gun? I've been carrying my Ruger SP101, for close to 8 years, for EDC, whenever I'm awake. Last Summer, bought an LCR, in .38 special, for a pocket pistol, before the .357 mag. LCR was on the market. The .357 LCR will be my next purchase, one of these days. I still carry the SP101 every day, all day, unless I'm dressing up, and need the LCR for a pocket pistol. Each of my Rugers has a different purpose. I live Rural, on 13 acres, out in the woods. I can go out to the target stand & shoot whenever the weather suits me. I mostly load the SP101 with .357 mag., 110gr. HJLHP's. It's a nice shooter. I do not have any doubts about taking care of business, or being undergunned with either revolver. This is just my experience. Whatever works for you. __________________ 'Til later.... Hang in there,and Hang on! Life is a Journey... Not a Destination! Old John

03-12-2011, 08:46 AM	#18
TheGunClinger Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: SW Florida Contributor Posts: 2,378	Re: Which gun? I got the SP-101 and the LCR .38. I like them both but the SP is way too heavy and kinda too big to conceal well in Florida. The LCR is perfect for me to carry. Now I want the LCR .357 but havnt found any around here. __________________ New England Patriots Rule Next year.

03-12-2011, 10:57 AM	#19
dragman V.I.P. Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: PA Posts: 201	Re: Which gun? LCR!! hands down an awesome pistol! I love the 101 but the LCR does just as much and is more versitile IMHO.

03-12-2011, 06:45 PM	#20
ozo Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Nashville TN Posts: 2,770	Re: Which gun? I would get the LCR in .38, it is comfortable to shoot in a small pistol, and I would go all out and get the LG model. [For a CCW between the guns stated above.] LCR-LG .38 Special Crimson Trace® Lasergrips® Replaceable front sight, Pinned Ramp 1.31" 13.00 oz. .357 is pretty hard on you [LCR] if you are gonna shoot it very much, and the LG is nice. Personally, if I was going to carry a .357 revolver, I would get a Blackhawk, and then in a .45 and get the convertible. I realize this is way out of proportion for CCW from the two you mentioned, but if you are going to shoot a lot, you will be happier. That's why I suggest a .38 LCR-LG. I am a BIG fan of .357, hunted deer for years with a stainless Blackhawk, and LOVE shooting .357 in rifles. There is plenty of 'self protection' ammo for the .38 and you will shoot it more, and more enjoyably, than the .357 in a short barrel. But, all that said, there is plenty of choices still, here in America. In my opinion, a pistol for CCW and a pistol I will fire a lot at the range are completely different gun choices. I hope this makes sense. [and I did NOT keep in mind it was for EDC---after my rant-sorry] I would still go LCR-LG .38 __________________ http://www.nranews.com/#/nranews, "ozo. you're off your rocker sir." -johnlives4christ http://www.prisonplanet.com/ -America,Bless GOD- Last edited by ozo; 03-12-2011 at 07:39 PM..

03-13-2011, 09:40 AM	#21
jimjc Former Guest Join Date: Feb 2011 Posts: 33	Re: Which gun? my $.02....I shot the Lcr and it sucks to shoot period.....That`s not to say it isn`t good for what it it is......but I believe it`s the beginnings of a throw-away future gun that you can`t use to shoot but for a few rounds.... it`s just for selfdefence....Plus it`s to much money for what it is.. If you want a gun to LAST AND TO SHOOT and be able to hit something at something farther than 10 feet get the SP101....A really good all around gun you can own for years and it will still be worth something in the end....Jim

03-13-2011, 10:56 AM	#22
mesinge2 Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Central Florida Posts: 538	Re: Which gun? I'll let actual use speak for itself. The video below is my SP101 with 158 gr. Hornady XTP loads at 14 yards. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKEKrJMAQV8 __________________ NRA Certified Instructor "A strong body makes the mind strong. As to the species of exercise. I advise the gun. While this gives moderate exercise to the body, it gives boldness, enterprise, and independence to the mind ... Let your gun therefore be your constant companion of your walks." 1785, Thomas Jefferson.