Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and FFL transfers. The Ruger GP100 357 Magnum Wiley Clapp Hawkeye Revolver is a robust, compact .357 Magnum revolver, designed for serious use. Its unique features and build quality set it apart in the double-action revolver market. This model is available now for $599.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp Hawkeye?
| Product Type | Revolver |
| Caliber | .357 Magnum / .38 Special |
| Capacity | 6 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 3 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Hawkeye Matte Stainless |
| Sights | Dovetailed Novak LoMount Carry 3-Dot (Tritium front) |
| Grip | Compact, One-Piece Rubber with Lanyard Loop |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 36 oz |
| Overall Length | 8.5 inches |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | RUG-1752 |
What are the key features of this Ruger GP100?
The Ruger GP100 357 Magnum Wiley Clapp Hawkeye Revolver brings together a series of thoughtful design choices that make it a distinct offering. The 3-inch heavy barrel, specifically chosen by Wiley Clapp, contributes to its balance and recoil management. Unlike standard GP100s, this model sports Novak LoMount Carry sights with a tritium front, which is a significant upgrade for low-light conditions. The Hawkeye matte stainless finish is practical, reducing glare and offering a subdued look. The compact, one-piece rubber grip, designed for both comfort and control, also includes a lanyard loop, a nod to utility that’s often overlooked on modern revolvers. Internally, the trigger group has been refined for a smoother pull right out of the box, which is something you’ll appreciate if you’ve handled a few stock Ruger revolvers over the years. It’s a package that feels purpose-built for carry and defensive use, without sacrificing the inherent toughness of the GP100 platform.
Who is the Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp Hawkeye for?
This revolver is built for individuals who prioritize reliability and robust construction in a carry or home defense firearm. The .357 Magnum chambering offers significant power, while the ability to shoot .38 Special makes it versatile for practice. The enhanced sights and refined trigger are valuable for those who want a capable revolver without immediate aftermarket modifications. It’s also a strong contender for anyone who appreciates the input of experienced firearms instructors like Wiley Clapp in a production model.
What are the pros and cons of this revolver?
Like any firearm, the Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp Hawkeye has its strengths and weaknesses.
- ✅ Robust Construction: The GP100 frame is known for its durability and ability to handle full-power .357 Magnum loads over the long haul. This isn’t a delicate range toy.
- ✅ Enhanced Sights: The Novak LoMount Carry sights with a tritium front are a significant upgrade, offering a clear sight picture and low-light capability.
- ✅ Optimized Barrel Length: The 3-inch heavy barrel provides a good balance of velocity, sight radius, and concealability for a .357 Magnum.
- ✅ Refined Trigger: The factory trigger action is smoother than many standard GP100s, making it more shootable out of the box.
- ✅ Versatile Ammunition: Shoots both .357 Magnum and .38 Special, offering flexibility for defensive loads and practice ammunition.
- ✅ Compact Grip: The one-piece rubber grip manages recoil well while maintaining a relatively compact profile for carry.
- ❌ Weight: At 36 oz, it’s a heavier carry option compared to many semi-automatics or smaller revolvers. See our lightweight revolvers for alternatives.
- ❌ Capacity: A 6-round capacity is standard for many revolvers but less than most modern semi-automatic pistols.
- ❌ Price Point: While justified by its features, it sits at a higher price point than basic GP100 models.
How does the Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp compare to other revolvers?
When considering a revolver for serious use, it’s helpful to stack the Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp Hawkeye against some common alternatives.
| Feature | Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp Hawkeye | Smith & Wesson 686 Plus (3″) | Taurus 605 (2″) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel / Carbon Steel |
| Quality | Excellent; Rugged, purpose-built with instructor input. | Excellent; Classic design, well-regarded. | Good; Budget-friendly, serviceable. |
| Capacity | 6 Rounds | 7 Rounds | 5 Rounds |
| Sights | Novak LoMount Carry (Tritium Front) | Adjustable Rear, Fixed Front | Fixed Front & Rear |
| Barrel Length | 3 inches | 3 inches | 2 inches |
| Lifespan/Durability | Very High; Known for taking abuse. | Very High; Long history of durability. | Moderate; Good for the price, but not as robust as Ruger/S&W. |
| Price | ~$599.00 | ~$900-1000 | ~$350-450 |
The Wiley Clapp GP100 holds its own by offering a blend of ruggedness, enhanced sights, and a more compact, carry-friendly profile than many of its competitors. While the S&W 686 Plus offers an extra round and often a very smooth action, it usually comes at a higher price and with more traditional, adjustable sights that might not be ideal for concealed carry. The Taurus 605 is a much more budget-conscious option but sacrifices capacity, barrel length, and overall refinement compared to the Ruger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp Hawkeye good for concealed carry?
While it’s a relatively compact .357 Magnum revolver, its all-steel construction means it has a significant weight (36 oz). It can be carried concealed, especially with a good holster and appropriate clothing, but it will be heavier than many smaller, polymer-framed options. The 3-inch barrel and compact grip aid in concealment.
What kind of ammunition should I use with this revolver?
The Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp Hawkeye is chambered for .357 Magnum, which provides excellent defensive power. It can also safely and accurately fire .38 Special, including .38 Special +P rounds, which are generally preferred for practice due to lower cost and recoil. For self-defense, a good quality .357 Magnum hollow point or a stout .38 Special +P load would be appropriate.
Does this revolver have a transfer bar safety?
Yes, like all modern Ruger double-action revolvers, the GP100 features a transfer bar mechanism. This design ensures that the firing pin cannot be struck by the hammer unless the trigger is fully pulled, making it safe to carry with a round under the hammer.
What is the difference between this and a standard Ruger GP100?
The Wiley Clapp Hawkeye edition distinguishes itself with several key features: a 3-inch heavy barrel, Novak LoMount Carry sights with a tritium front, a Hawkeye matte stainless finish, and a compact, one-piece rubber grip with a lanyard loop. It also features a factory-tuned trigger, offering a smoother pull than many standard GP100 models.
Where can I buy revolvers online?
You can purchase revolvers, including the Ruger GP100 Wiley Clapp Hawkeye, directly from Kansas Gunshop at kansas-gunshop.com. We facilitate FFL transfers and ship firearms in compliance with all federal and state laws.
Is the grip interchangeable on the Wiley Clapp GP100?
Yes, the compact, one-piece rubber grip on the Wiley Clapp GP100 is interchangeable with other Ruger GP100 grips. This allows for customization based on personal preference for size, material, or recoil absorption, though the factory grip is well-regarded for its design.
Is this revolver suitable for hunting?
While the .357 Magnum cartridge is capable of taking small to medium game, the 3-inch barrel on this specific model might limit its effective range for hunting purposes compared to revolvers with longer barrels. For Kansas deer season, you’d likely want something with more barrel length for better ballistics and sight radius, but for close-range varmint control or as a backup, it could serve a purpose.
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Last updated: April 2026
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