First post here as a brand new owner of a Ruger SP101 .357, my first handgun! Needless to say I am very excited about my purchase having done much work and investigation and opting for the SP101.
I am also a bit overwhelmed at all the research to be done on how to be the most responsible and knowledgeable owner possible. If anyone has any advice on good books to read, recommendations for good range ammo, and quirks of the gun to keep an eye on, advice on cleaning ("must have" supplies, etc.) this newbie would greatly appreciate any support or advice from any veteran shooters, especially if you have experience with the SP101.
Thanks guys!
JD - Austin, TX
neubauten2813: Sir; hang onto your hat. These folks will assist.
Your firearm is of the finest in the land. It will serve you well for many years.
Ammunition from Wal Mart, 38's are cheaper to shoot and your SP101 doesn't care. .357's have more pressure and umphf.
Read, practice safety, act responsibly, and keep your finger off the trigger until it is pointed in a safe direction.
Sir; Welcome from NC
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Craig
Who refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25
You ought to try and meet some local gun nuts. They can help you with any questions or problems you have. Go hang around a shooting range and a gun shop as you have time. Pick up any old gun magazines you can and read.
Oh, and keep coming back here.
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Aim real good we're nearly out of ammo.
i must say that you picked a great one for your first! i have many guns but right now im saving up to get myown sp101!
listen to what is told to you, and use commen sence. oh and welcome to the site!
Thanks, guys, for the warm welcome. I am going to the range tonight for the christening. I haven't been to a range in Texas yet (native Philadelphian) but I have a feeling we're probably not lacking enthusiastic shooters here (even in Austin!)
How often should I clean? Does a quality cleaning always require dismantling or can regular maintenance be done with the firearm intact?
I clean after every shoot as well. Excellent choice for your first. I don't have experience with SP-101 but you can't go wrong with a Ruger revolver as my GP-100 is great. I am new here too and am thoroughly enjoying the company. Welcome and have fun.
revolvers are very reliable, i would clean the barrel after every trip or two to the range. other than that i dont think a revolve needs much care.
using .38 special would allow you to shoot more than .357, but if you shoot alot then you should look into reloading you cases. if you reload your own bullets then that would strech you dollars to there fullest.
no matter what your having trouble with im sure there is someone here that can help you
I am going to the range tonight for the christening.
How did it go?
If you have not had any formal training I recommend checking with the range. I am sure that they can connect you with an NRA instructor who would gladly give you a basic safety class for free. If not I am sure that there is more than one member here within driving distance of Austin who would gladly provide you with the basics for nothing more in payment than a thank you.
You are a step ahead... you are already talking with fellow shooters with tons of knowledge and information, all you need to do is ask. Having a shooting partner is always a great idea, not only for a "range buddy" but also for safety's sake.
Be careful, have fun and keep coming back, it's great to have you here.
Larry O
Wisconsin
__________________ You don't scare me! Work on it!
Thanks, guys, for the warm welcome. I am going to the range tonight for the christening. I haven't been to a range in Texas yet (native Philadelphian) but I have a feeling we're probably not lacking enthusiastic shooters here (even in Austin!)
How often should I clean? Does a quality cleaning always require dismantling or can regular maintenance be done with the firearm intact?
Welsome to the site and Texas as well from a Texan that started out in Philly many years ago.
Welcome to the site this is a great place to ask questions. When ya have some time do some searching on some questions, a lot of times its already there for ya.
nice first gun, good selection! sounds like you did some good research, keeping reading, ask questions and practice as much as you can.
Wear your hearing protection and eye protection as well.
Follow all safety percautions!
Beware, do not shoot with any of your hand, fingers etc. in front of the cylinder, the lead shavings and high pressure bleed off will hurt. It will strip off the bark of a tree, protect the eyes and hearing. :0
It will be fun follow the basic guide lines.
I like to practice using [1] .357 and [5] .38 specials in a target practice, knowing a loud one will jerk your hand, the waiting and expectation helped me to over come the jerking/flincing syndrome, also less expensive...you'll need a nice holster. lots of info on this site~
Welcome 
follow the basic guide lines. 
