Ruger Super GP100

Super GP100 vs. Standard GP100: What Makes It Competition-Ready?

The standard GP100 is a robust duty and hunting revolver with a 6-shot cylinder. The Super GP100 upgrades to an 8-shot cylinder in .357 Magnum or 9mm, which is significant in USPSA Revolver and IDPA ESR divisions where round count directly affects stage scores. The Super GP100 also has a heavier full-underlug barrel that reduces muzzle flip between shots, a wider target-style hammer, and a smoother factory trigger action than the standard GP100. The interchangeable Hogue Monogrip and wood grip panels allow shooters to customize their grip to hand size. The Super GP100 is ready for competition from the box in a way the standard GP100 is not.

Super GP100 in 9mm: Why Choose 9mm Over .357 Magnum?

The Super GP100 in 9mm uses full moon clips that simultaneously load all 8 rounds and eject them as a unit—the fastest possible revolver reload system. The 9mm variant allows competitors to run standard 9mm pistol ammunition, keeping ammunition cost down for high-volume practice. In USPSA Revolver division, 9mm scores Minor power factor while .357 Magnum scores Major with appropriate loads, which affects scoring on partial hits. Competitors who prioritize reload speed and ammunition economy often choose the 9mm; those who want the Major scoring advantage choose .357 Magnum. The 9mm Super GP100’s moon clip system is fast enough that many experienced competitors prefer it despite the Minor scoring.

Super GP100 for USPSA and IDPA Competition

The Super GP100 is approved for USPSA Revolver division and IDPA Enhanced Service Revolver (ESR) division. Its 8-round capacity gives it a round count advantage over 6-shot revolvers in revolver-only divisions. Most Super GP100 competitors add: a lighter recoil spring for faster double-action cycling, a chamfered cylinder for faster moonclip loading (9mm) or speedloader loading (.357), and possibly an action job from a qualified revolver smith to reduce pull weight to the 8–9 lb range. The Super GP100’s factory action is already smoother than most production revolvers, but serious competitors typically have it professionally tuned. Moon clip tools and spare moon clips are essential accessories for the 9mm variant.

Super GP100 Barrel Length and Sight Options

The Super GP100 is available with a 5.5″ barrel that provides a long sight radius for precise shot placement at competition distances. The fully adjustable rear sight allows precise windage and elevation zero for your chosen load. Front sight replacements are available from Ruger and aftermarket makers in different heights and colors—a bright fiber optic front sight is a popular competition upgrade for faster target acquisition under varied lighting. The heavy underlug barrel’s weight-forward balance helps control muzzle flip during rapid double-action fire, which is where the Super GP100’s competition advantage over lighter revolvers is most pronounced.

Super GP100 for Hunting and Field Use

Beyond competition, the Super GP100’s 8-shot .357 Magnum capacity and heavy barrel make it a capable hunting revolver. The adjustable sight allows precise zero for different bullet weights and ranges. A 125-grain .357 Magnum at 1,400+ fps from the 5.5″ barrel is effective on deer-sized game inside 75 yards, and the 8-shot capacity provides a meaningful advantage for pig hunting where follow-up shots may be needed. The Super GP100’s weight makes extended carry less comfortable than lighter revolvers, but its shooting characteristics and capacity make it a legitimate choice for a hunter who wants a revolver-based hunting sidearm.

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