The Ruger GP100 is a medium-frame double-action revolver built around a triple-locking stainless or alloy-steel frame, with full-lug barrels from 2.5" to 6", adjustable sights on most models, and 6-, 7-, or 10-shot cylinders depending on caliber.
Its robust construction handles heavy .357 Magnum loads alongside .38 Special target ammunition, making it a versatile platform for home defense, duty carry, hunting, and range shooting.
Maximizing the GP100's potential requires accessories matched to barrel length, cylinder capacity, and intended role.
From speedloaders that account for 6- versus 7-shot cylinders to holsters accommodating specific barrel configurations, the right upgrades transform the Ruger GP100 from a capable factory revolver into a fully optimized system for defensive carry, hunting, or competition shooting.
Holsters for Ruger GP100
GP100 holsters must accommodate varying barrel lengths (3", 4.2", 5", 6"), cylinder diameters (6-shot versus wider 7-shot), and use cases spanning concealed carry, field hunting, and duty applications.
IWB Holsters
Inside-the-waistband carry suits 3" and 4.2" GP100 models for concealed carry, though the revolver's steel construction creates weight challenges compared to polymer semi-autos. Premium IWB holsters use reinforced construction and adjustable cant to balance concealment against accessibility. The GP100's cylinder diameter requires sufficient holster width to prevent printing through cover garments.
Chest Holsters
Chest rigs keep the GP100 accessible during outdoor activities, ATV riding, or hunting where belt carry interferes with backpack hip belts or seated positions. Quality chest holsters use padded, adjustable harness systems to distribute weight across shoulders and prevent bouncing through rough terrain. Chest rigs suit 4" and 6" hunting configurations worn over heavy outerwear.
Speedloaders for Ruger GP100
Speedloaders enable rapid cylinder reloads critical for defensive scenarios, competition, and range efficiency.
The GP100's varying cylinder capacities—6-shot .357, 7-shot .357/.327, 10-shot .22 LR—require matching speedloaders, as 6- and 7-shot variants are not interchangeable. Reliable speedloaders align precisely with chamber mouths and release smoothly under stress.
6-Shot .357 Speedloaders
Speed Beez produces GP100-specific 6-shot .357 Magnum speedloaders with precision-machined bodies ensuring reliable alignment and positive cartridge release.
These speedloaders work with standard 6-shot .357 GP100 models and pair with dedicated loading blocks allowing pre-staged rounds for efficient range sessions. HKS offers budget-conscious 6-shot alternatives with proven twist-knob release mechanisms.
7-Shot .357 Speedloaders
Seven-shot .357 GP100 models require dedicated 7-shot speedloaders accommodating the wider cylinder diameter. Speed Beez markets 7-shot loaders specifically sized for these variants, while HKS produces compatible 7-round options.
The additional round creates slightly larger speedloader profiles affecting pouch sizing and carry considerations.
.327 Federal Magnum Speedloaders
Seven-shot .327 Federal Magnum GP100s use the same 7-shot speedloaders as .357 variants due to identical cylinder dimensions.
The .327's rim diameter matches .38/.357 specifications, allowing interchangeable speedloader use across these calibers within correct capacity configurations.
.22 LR Loading Solutions
Ten-shot .22 LR GP100 models rely more on strip loaders or direct thumb loading due to limited dedicated 10-shot speedloader availability.
The rimfire cartridge's small diameter and 10-round capacity create speedloader design challenges, making manual loading or strip-style speed strips more practical for most shooters.
Speedloader Pouches
Dedicated speedloader pouches from Speed Beez, Safariland, and DeSantis position loaded speedloaders for rapid access during defensive encounters or competition stages.
Quality pouches secure speedloaders against accidental release while allowing smooth single-motion draws. Belt-mounted pouches accommodate multiple speedloaders for extended range sessions or competition use.
Grips for Ruger GP100
Factory rubber grips with hardwood inserts provide adequate control, but aftermarket grips address circumference, texture, and recoil management preferences across defensive, hunting, and recreational shooting.
Proper grip selection significantly affects recoil control with full-power .357 Magnum loads and overall shooting comfort during extended sessions.
Hogue Monogrip
Hogue's one-piece Monogrip remains the most popular GP100 aftermarket grip, featuring soft rubber construction with orthopedic finger grooves and cobblestone texture.
The Monogrip's compliance absorbs .357 Magnum recoil effectively while providing secure purchase in adverse conditions. Its one-piece design eliminates side panels for streamlined profiles suiting concealed carry.
Hogue Hardwood Grips
Hogue produces hardwood grip panels in various exotic woods, providing traditional aesthetics and rigid control surfaces.
Checkered patterns improve purchase compared to smooth wood, though aggressive .357 loads prove more punishing through hard wood than rubber alternatives. Hardwood grips suit recreational shooting and complement stainless GP100 finishes aesthetically.
Pachmayr Diamond Pro
Pachmayr's Diamond Pro grips use checkered rubber surfaces providing aggressive purchase without finger grooves that may not fit all hand sizes.
The diamond-pattern checkering works effectively through moisture while maintaining comfort during extended shooting sessions. Pachmayr grips suit shooters preferring uniform texture over contoured finger positioning.
Altamont Company Grips
Altamont produces custom wood and synthetic grips in extensive styles ranging from smooth to highly-figured exotic woods.
Their GP100-specific offerings include various wood species, checkering patterns, and custom options accommodating individual aesthetic preferences. Altamont grips appeal to shooters prioritizing appearance alongside function.
Crimson Trace Lasergrips
Laser-equipped grips from Crimson Trace integrate red laser aiming devices activated by natural grip pressure. The laser aids low-light defensive scenarios and provides aiming reference at distances exceeding effective sight radius.
Lasergrips add bulk and battery maintenance requirements while delivering tactical advantages in specific contexts.
Sights for Ruger GP100
Factory adjustable rear sights and ramped front sights work adequately for general use, but aftermarket fiber-optic and tritium upgrades dramatically improve target acquisition across lighting conditions.
Sight selection depends on primary use—defensive shooting prioritizes low-light visibility, while hunting emphasizes precision and glare reduction.
Fiber-Optic Front Sights
HiViz Litewave fiber-optic front sights gather ambient light into brilliant aiming points accelerating sight acquisition under varied lighting. Interchangeable LitePipe inserts in red, green, and white accommodate different lighting preferences and shooter visual characteristics.
Fiber-optic fronts paired with blacked-out rears create high-contrast sight pictures suiting competition and hunting applications.
Tritium Night Sights
HiViz Litewave H3 combines fiber-optic brightness with tritium self-illumination, providing visible sights in complete darkness critical for home defense.
The hybrid design delivers maximum visibility across lighting conditions, though added cost exceeds fiber-only or tritium-only alternatives. Tritium brightness fades over 10-12 years requiring eventual replacement.
Williams Fire Sight Sets
Williams Gun Sight produces complete sight sets featuring fiber-optic front elements and adjustable rear blades specifically fitted to GP100 dimensions.
The Fire Sight system provides high-visibility aiming reference across defensive and hunting applications while maintaining adjustability for load-specific zeroing. Williams sights suit shooters wanting complete front-and-rear upgrades.
Gold Bead Front Sights
Gold bead front sights, particularly on Wiley Clapp GP100 variants, provide traditional low-profile aiming reference favored for defensive use.
The gold coloring shows well against varied backgrounds without fiber-optic brightness potentially distracting in defensive scenarios. Gold beads suit shooters preferring understated but effective sight pictures.
Adjustable Rear Sights
Factory adjustable rear sights allow windage and elevation adjustments accommodating different loads and distances.
Aftermarket improved rear sights from various manufacturers provide enhanced adjustment precision and visibility while maintaining adjustment capability. Adjustable sights suit precision shooting and load development more than fixed defensive configurations.
Maintenance Tools for Ruger GP100
.357 Magnum and .38 Special firing generates carbon and copper fouling requiring regular cleaning to maintain reliability and accuracy.
GP100-specific maintenance demands include proper rod lengths avoiding forcing cone damage, chamber brushes thoroughly removing carbon rings, and appropriate solvents for stainless steel preservation.
Cleaning Kits
Complete cleaning kits include bronze or nylon bore brushes sized for .357/9mm calibers, chamber brushes reaching fully into chambers, and appropriate-length cleaning rods preventing forcing cone damage.
Otis Technology offers flexible cable-based systems eliminating rod damage risks, while traditional Outers and Hoppes kits provide proven rod-and-patch cleaning.
Bore Snakes
Bore snakes from Hoppes or Real Avid provide quick bore cleaning via pull-through operation eliminating disassembly and rod use. The embedded brushes and cleaning surfaces remove fouling in single passes, ideal for field cleaning or quick maintenance between range sessions. Bore snakes complement rather than replace thorough rod-and-brush cleaning.
Chamber Brushes
Dedicated chamber brushes thoroughly remove carbon rings and fouling from cylinder chambers preventing extraction issues and maintaining reliable function. Stiff bronze bristles reach chamber walls and forcing cone areas requiring aggressive cleaning. Regular chamber brushing prevents stuck cases and maintains consistent accuracy.
Cylinder Release Tools
Specialty tools simplify cylinder removal during detail cleaning, preventing marring and facilitating access to hard-to-reach areas. While GP100 cylinder removal requires only standard tools, dedicated devices prevent cosmetic damage and speed maintenance procedures. Cylinder tools suit high-volume shooters performing frequent deep cleaning.
Lubricants and Protectants
Quality gun oils from Slip 2000, Break-Free, or Ballistol provide adequate lubrication for GP100 lockwork and cylinder rotation. Stainless steel construction tolerates minimal lubrication, though proper application at bearing surfaces improves longevity. Regular lubrication after cleaning maintains smooth double-action operation and prevents wear.
Optics Mounting for Ruger GP100
The GP100 lacks integral optic mounting, but aftermarket scope mounts and red dot adapters enable magnified optic or micro dot installation for hunting and precision shooting applications.
Picatinny rail systems attach via existing mounting holes, providing stable platforms for long eye-relief scopes or modern red dot sights.
EGW Picatinny Rail Mounts
Evolution Gun Works produces GP100-specific Picatinny rail scope mounts attaching via factory mounting holes.
The 0 MOA rail positions scopes at proper height for long eye-relief configurations, enabling magnified optic use for hunting applications. EGW rails maintain zero through heavy .357 recoil while providing versatile mounting options.
Weaver-Style Scope Rings
Traditional Weaver or Dovetail rings mount directly to GP100 factory mounting provisions, accommodating long eye-relief scopes without rail adapters.
Direct-mount rings reduce overall height and bulk compared to rail-mounted alternatives. Scope selection requires proper eye relief (typically 9-20") accommodating revolver grip-to-scope distances.
Red Dot Mounting Solutions
While less common than scope mounts, some shooters install micro red dots via custom mounting plates or modified scope mounts.
The GP100's lack of slide-mounted optic provisions limits red dot practicality compared to semi-automatic pistols. Red dot mounting remains niche for competition or specialized applications.
Scope Selection Considerations
Revolver scopes require long eye relief (9-20") accommodating the distance from shooter's eye to scope, typically mounted over the topstrap. Popular options include Leupold FX-II 2x20 EER, Burris 2-7x Scout, and similar compact long eye-relief designs. Magnification aids precision at hunting distances while low-power settings maintain close-range capability.
Ammunition Accessories for Ruger GP100
Effective GP100 use requires ammunition management tools spanning speedloaders, loading blocks, and storage solutions accommodating the revolver's specific cylinder capacities and caliber options.
Proper ammunition handling accessories improve efficiency during range sessions and ensure reliable defensive ammunition storage.
Speed Beez Loading Blocks
Speed Beez markets GP100-specific loading blocks holding multiple speedloaders' worth of ammunition in organized arrays.
The blocks allow pre-staging 30-40 rounds in speedloader-compatible alignment, dramatically speeding range reloads and facilitating competitive shooting. Loading blocks suit high-volume shooters and competition participants.
Ammo Boxes and Storage
MTM Case-Gard and similar manufacturers produce revolver-specific ammo boxes with compartments accommodating speedloaders alongside loose ammunition.
Dedicated revolver boxes protect loaded speedloaders during transport while organizing ammunition by type. Proper storage prevents ammunition damage and maintains speedloader integrity.
Snap Caps and Dummy Rounds
A-Zoom aluminum snap caps in .357/.38 calibers allow safe dry-fire practice and function checking without firing pin damage.
Snap caps enable trigger control practice, speedloader manipulation training, and cycling verification. Regular dry-fire practice with snap caps develops proficiency without ammunition expense.
Laser and Light Accessories for Ruger GP100
The GP100 lacks integral accessory rails, but laser grips and barrel-clamp light mounts provide tactical illumination and aiming assistance for defensive applications. These accessories aid low-light target identification and aiming, though they add bulk and may complicate holster fit.
Crimson Trace Lasergrips
Crimson Trace manufactures laser-equipped grips specifically fitted to GP100 dimensions, providing instinctive activation via natural grip pressure.
The integrated red laser aids low-light aiming and provides reference at distances exceeding iron sight effectiveness. Lasergrips require battery maintenance and add measurable bulk to grip circumference.
Barrel-Clamp Light Mounts
Aftermarket barrel clamps attach forward of the trigger guard, providing mounting platforms for weapon lights on rail-less GP100 models.
These solutions create questionable reliability concerns and potential interference with support hand grip placement. Most serious defensive users prefer rail-less simplicity or select rail-equipped alternatives.
Rail Adapters
Some manufacturers produce trigger-guard-mounted rail adapters enabling standard weapon light attachment to GP100 revolvers.
These adapters add bulk and may affect holster compatibility while providing limited light mounting capability. Rail adapters serve niche applications where integrated lighting proves essential.
Barrel and Cylinder Accessories for Ruger GP100
While less common than grip or sight upgrades, barrel and cylinder accessories address specific performance needs spanning accuracy improvement, load development, and specialized applications.
These components require proper fitting and may necessitate professional gunsmithing for correct installation.
Barrel Weights
Aftermarket barrel weights attach to full-lug barrels, adding mass that reduces perceived recoil and dampens muzzle rise during rapid fire. Competition shooters favor barrel weights for improved sight tracking and faster follow-up shots. Weights suit recreational shooting but add bulk precluding most carry applications.
Moon Clips
Moon clips hold rimless cartridges (10mm, .45 ACP) in revolver chambers, enabling use in appropriately-chambered GP100 variants. The clips facilitate faster loading and extraction compared to individually-loaded rimless rounds. Moon clip use remains limited to specific GP100 chamberings designed for their use.
Cylinder Shims
Precision cylinder shims reduce cylinder endshake, improving timing and potential accuracy. Proper shimming requires careful measurement and fitting to avoid binding or excessive friction. Shimming suits accuracy-focused builds and addresses excessive factory endshake in individual revolvers.
Training and Competition Accessories for Ruger GP100
Competition and training-focused GP100 use benefits from accessories supporting rapid manipulation, consistent performance measurement, and efficient practice. These tools range from shot timers to specialized grips and ammunition management solutions.
Shot Timers
Electronic shot timers from Competition Electronics or Pact measure split times and total stage performance, providing objective feedback for skill development. Timer use helps identify manipulation inefficiencies and tracks improvement over time. Competitive GP100 shooters rely on timers for structured practice and match preparation.
Grip Adapters
Grip adapters modify factory or aftermarket grips to better fit individual hand sizes, improving control and reducing fatigue. Custom fitting through adapters or grip modifications enhances consistency and comfort during high-round-count practice sessions. Proper grip fit proves critical for double-action trigger control.
Action Tuning Components
Springs and small parts from specialists like Wolff or MCARBO enable action tuning reducing double-action trigger pull weights and improving smoothness. Carefully-selected spring combinations maintain reliable ignition while improving trigger feel. Action work should preserve reliability-first operation avoiding excessively light pulls risking light strikes.
Conclusion: Top Ruger GP100 Accessories & Upgrades
The Ruger GP100's robust triple-locking design and versatile caliber offerings make it adaptable across home defense, duty carry, hunting, and recreational shooting.
Quality holsters matched to specific barrel lengths and cylinder capacities ensure secure retention and consistent access across IWB, OWB, and field applications. Speedloaders addressing 6- versus 7-shot cylinder differences provide critical reload capability for defensive and competition use.
Aftermarket grips from Hogue, Pachmayr, and specialty manufacturers dramatically improve recoil control and comfort with full-power .357 Magnum loads. Fiber-optic and tritium sight upgrades transform target acquisition across lighting conditions, while scope mounts enable precision shooting at hunting distances. Maintenance tools and proper cleaning procedures preserve the GP100's legendary reliability through thousands of rounds.
Whether running a 3" Wiley Clapp for concealed carry, 4.2" Match Champion for competition, or 6" hunting configuration for field use, these accessories transform the factory GP100 into a fully optimized system matched to your specific requirements and shooting discipline.