SP101 2.5" or 3"?

Looking to get an SP101, intend for it to be added to my rotation for cc as I really like revolvers. I have never owned an SP101 but have shot one 1 in 3". Is there any appreciable different in the way the 2.5" carries versus the 3". I currently carry a full size 1911 both IWB and OWB as well as a Kahr K40 both IWB & OWB. I have in the past carried a original S&W bodyguard model both ways. I would expect some marginal performance improvement with the 3" but would it be worth it. Thanks in advance!

The upside to the 3-1/16" is a longer sight radius and a more velocity. The only downside is the slightly longer barrel is a bit harder to conceal but that should only be a problem in an ankle holster or, possibly, in an OWB holster if your shirt or jacket isn't quite long enough. I'd choose the 3" all the time.

It is actually 2.25 vs 3.06, over 3/4 of an inch. Doesn't seem like much, but I bet it would make a difference concealing it. Ed

I find a handle much harder to hide than a little more barrel. I wouldn't mind if my LCRx had a 3" tube.

One of my favorite guns. I have a few of the 3" ers. Balance real well. Put on Hogue grips and you have a piece that will do darn near anything with in reason.

I just know that the 2.25", in a Simply Rugged pocket holster, is out of sight in my Wrangler jean pocket. I like that.
(Altamont grip)

I wish the 2.25 was a 2.5.

Go with the 2 1/4" barrel, better balance, lighter weight, no less accurate than a 3", easier to conceal, also shorter barrel Rugers always resale at a higher price should you ever want to trade it off.

For me, the 2.25 balances better than the 3-inch SP-101.

Both seem to shoot the same (ease of hitting the target), but the 2.25 feels better for some reason.

I have and like both. Your choice.

Ha, ha, ha! I was going to write the 3 inch balances better, but then Mike writes that the 2.25 inch balances better for him! . Yep it is a personal decision. Good luck
gramps
WB4WBH

gramps said:

Ha, ha, ha! I was going to write the 3 inch balances better, but then Mike writes that the 2.25 inch balances better for him! . Yep it is a personal decision. Good luck
gramps
WB4WBH

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Like Gramps said. I've got both, prefer the 3-1/16" .357.
Hugh
KK7UO

I have both also. I carry both in a Pancake holster at approximately 4 O'Clock. The 2.25 being a little shorter puts the bottom of the holster higher above your right rear pocket. I do not find the 3.06 to be a problem carrying either though. A nice fishing shirt, and you are good to go.

Bob R

In my opinion, the 3" bbl gives the proper proportions to the size and weight of the rest of the gun. Historically speaking, the SP is the grandson of the Colt Detective Special only made in a heavier duty form. Colt Detective Special ---> S&W Chief's Special ---> SP101. There is no significant difference between a 2" and 3" bbl when it comes to "convenient" carry. Now the 4" bbl version is out and it looks silly and does not balance. Pulling a 4" bbl out of a holster IS more difficult. I don't know what they were thinking. Lastly, the SP101 became a viable carry gun for me when I discovered the Hogue wooden grip for it. If you are going to wear this thing under clothing, toss the sticky rubber grip right away. That's the way I look at it.

CU

I prefer the 3" for the balance.

the "3" for me

Groo here
How you going to carry it????
If pocket, 2 1/4 if belt or sholder holster, 3in.

Barrel length is not the problem with concealed carry unless we are talking about something more than 4 inches. The grip is where you can get in trouble. I have been known to carry a Glock 17 with the grip cut to that of a 26 without an issue. The longer sight radius was helpful. The 3 inch is a better gun.

I own a 3 but want to add a 2.

lfpiii said:

Barrel length is not the problem with concealed carry unless we are talking about something more than 4 inches. The grip is where you can get in trouble. I have been known to carry a Glock 17 with the grip cut to that of a 26 without an issue. The longer sight radius was helpful. The 3 inch is a better gun.

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I have found that the above statement is the absolute truth! That extra .75" of barrel does nothing to decrease concealability... but a large grip will make hiding the gun more difficult. I've used a 3" SP as my off duty gun for years and have been extremely happy with it riding along in a Simply Rugged Silver Dollar pancake holster. I added Pachmyrs compact grips to remedy the grip size issue (really like the Badger grips as well, but the grip angle isn't comfortable for me). For my money, a 3" barrel is ideal for a CCW gun and really wish it was an option on the LCR. If it was, I probably would retire my SP in favor of that light-weight jewel.

Regards,
Jon