Early Years of the SP101

I'm looking at a 3" SP101, ca. 1991.
It's bone stock but, since getting my GP100 a week or so ago, I've read up a bit on SPs as well. I'm particularly interested in what Gemini Customs does with the 3" model.
Does anyone have an original "factory" or custom to show?

And, is there anything notably different about the early versions?

Gemini has a lot of pictures on their web site. You should maybe just call and talk to them. Mark is the guys name, I think.

Here's a 2nd year production 4-inch 22LR.

1991 was when the long frame was introduced. Originally it was offered only in short frame.
You have not said if it is .38 spl. (only) or .357 mag. (or 125 gr. only .357 mag.).
Other changes over the life of SP-101 are minimal.
Terry T

Terry T said:

1991 was when the long frame was introduced. Originally it was offered only in short frame.
You have not said if it is .38 spl. (only) or .357 mag. (or 125 gr. only .357 mag.).
Other changes over the life of SP-101 are minimal.
Terry T

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It's a .357 magnum -anything more specific, I can't say. I'll see it firsthand tomorrow. Thanks Terry.

Long Frame?

.357 mag. = long frame.

.357 mag., 125 gr. bullet = short frame and is rather rare.



Terry T

Terry T said:

.357 mag. = long frame.

.357 mag., 125 gr. bullet = short frame and is rather rare...

Terry T

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Well, I'll be horn-swoggled! 'Learn something new every day!
Thanks for the clear, informative replies!...

Now, I'm guessing by 1991 the odds of a .357 bearing the "125 grain bullet" roll mark is pretty slim. On a good note, it comes with 300 rounds, other accessories, and best of all -the original black and yellow box. All for a good price.
I've spoken with the gentleman and he said he bought it new in the early '90s. We shall see.

I have a SP101 3 inch says .357. Bought it in the 90's. A great shooting pistol, seems to be made to shoot the Federal 125 and the Winchester 110 both 357 mag. Shoots them like a rifle,that accurate. Never tried anything else. It is and will only be my GTG.

Do the current SP-101's in .38 Special still use the short frame, or are they now on the same frame as the .357?

My belief is that every current SP-101 is on the long frame. The model number on the box should have an 'X' in it for long frame.

I have documented a short frame .38spl. as late as 572-629xx, nearly 200,000 after the long frame was introduced, and a long frame .38spl in the 573-035xx range.

It is my belief that the two frame sizes were cast side by side for several years (nearly 200,000 ser. numbers).

Long frame parts should be interchangeable. In other words, one could easily swap calibers. Or, to say it differently, a long frame .357 mag. cylinder will not go in a short frame gun.

By the way, we have yet to find a long frame 9mm.
Terry T

Cool, thanks for the info. I can't explain why but a .38 Special SP is really appealing to me right now.

I bought the 125 grain only back when they were new. I actually had an FFL at the time. I should have bought a box of them. It points naturally, is accurate, and soaks up recoil. What else can you ask? Other than your wife to give it back...

http://i1078.photobucket.com/albums/w500/hungone1/101%20LT_zps29lurp8f.jpg

I'll try and post a picture of my first year 101 in .38

hittman said:

Here's a 2nd year production 4-inch 22LR.

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Thanks for the photo, I have never seen the full lug barrel on a 22lr. Now that I know they exist I now have a new search to do!! I just like the full lug barrel.

I know I'm probably preaching to the choir, but I sure wish they'd bring back those orange cardboard boxes. I don't like the plastic gray cases at all.