I'm Torn! Help me decide

[B_Li_Ber_Tar_Ian]

Ordering a new handgun for Christmas. It will have no special purpose, just an itch I have to scratch. All my firearms will eventually go to my children so that is a consideration. Beretta 81 in 32acp or Ruger Sp101 in 327?

 

[bannockburn]

I would probably go with the Beretta Model 81. First off I had a Model 84 when they first came out. Reliable and accurate it just was too big for my way of thinking for home defense but did make for a decent home defense gun. Second, I have tried the Ruger SP101 and just don't care for the way it handled and felt in my hand, so not a big fan of this particular revolver. Both guns are solid and well built and would serve your children very well.

 

[chicharrones]

I like Ruger revolvers, but since I'm not a reloader and I'm a fan of the .32 ACP cartridge, I'd pick that classic Beretta.

Edit to add: my decision would be biased by the fact I already own two .32 ACP handguns and have plenty of FMJ ammo on hand. Me not having to add a new caliber to the mix, like that revolver cartridge, would be a huge influence in my decision.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

SP101's are really solid guns, great for concealed carry and open carry alike. The 327 Fed cartridge also offer's better performance IMO. My first handgun was a Ruger SP101 in 357 mag.

The Beretta 81 is a fine piece, and I'd like one of those in my collection, but if only choosing one, I'd take the revolver every time.

It really depends on your intended use.

I should note that I've also had a 101 in 22lr. I got rid of that gun because I didn't care for the trigger, and the fit, finish, and overall QC were subpar. So as with any revolver, really check it out before opening your wallet.

 

[Blacksmoke]

I would go with the SP101 because the .327 Federal Magnum cartridge is "In". Seriously, the ballistics are impressive on paper. AND, you get six shots which is as Samuel Colt intended for man to have.

 

[azrocks]

Ordering a new handgun for Christmas. It will have no special purpose, just an itch I have to scratch. All my firearms will eventually go to my children so that is a consideration. Beretta 81 in 32acp or Ruger Sp101 in 327?

I vote the SP101. Durable enough to be a great heirloom. Fun to shoot for just about anyone. But I'd stick to .357 myself

 

[B_Li_Ber_Tar_Ian]

I vote the SP101. Durable enough to be a great heirloom. Fun to shoot for just about anyone. But I'd stick to .357 myself

Good for killin' cans!

 

[Coyote3855]

I'd probably do the Beretta because I have a thing for .32 ACP. What I'd really like is a Beretta 1935. Would even compromise on a 1934 (.380).

 

[Haywood]

357 SP101 DAO but that's just me.

 

[WestKentucky]

Can't go wrong either way. If it were me, sp101 in 327fed, but only because I don't have a 327 and I do have a similar 32acp. Even with my disdain for Ruger, I would give that one a try. Probably the 3" variety.

 

[Tallball]

It's win/win. They are both nice guns. I have an SP101 in 327, and Beretta Models 84 and 100 in 32acp. I like them all. I am more of a revolver guy and would probably go with the SP101, but you can't really go wrong either way.

 

[LUCKYDAWG13]

Just asking but um do you you have a 1911 if no that would be a fine Heirloom but of the two you asked about for me hands down
Ruger SP101 3" but in 357 magnum

 

[Twiki357]

I’m not a fan of Ruger, but I would definitely pick Ruger over beretta. Ruger makes a good product and stands behind it. I’ve only had one beretta; it was junk and their warranty and customer service, in my opinion, suck.

 

[RetiredUSNChief]

Why choose?

Buy them both!

 

[stompah]

SP101 in 357. If you want a softer plinking round then 38spl. If you want a softer self defense round the 38spl +p. If the end of the world has come and you need to shoot through a radioactive zombie cow's extra thick skull to put it down 357mag.

 

[B_Li_Ber_Tar_Ian]

I have 357 more than covered. This ones just for something different. Henry's recent announcement of their 327 lever gun has helped with the decision

 

[philbo]

I would go with the Ruger in 327. Having owned the 3", no sights version I can attest that it is a very nice package; but, given a preference the newer 4" barrel with adjustable sights would be my choice.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I have 357 more than covered. This ones just for something different. Henry's recent announcement of their 327 lever gun has helped with the decision

It's about time someone put the .327 Mag in a platform where it can shine. I think it will make a great range Carbine and if you are going to buy one you should couple it with the SP101. (or better yet, a Blackhawk)

 

[kBob]

"These cans! He hates these cans!"

My answer would be "yes"

Seriously it depends on the what for. If CCW were my PRIMARY concern then the Beretta. Fun plinking, then the Ruger. I also fall in Chicharrones camp though that for me personally the ammo choice would set me on the .32 ACP path....but if you don't already feed a 7.65 Browning, then the .327 is a lot more flexible.

Have I muddied the waters enough, yet?

-kBob

 

[ranger56528]

Can't go wrong with the SP 101 and besides I don't see a lot of .32 ACP on shelfs around where I live but most have .357 on the shelf.

 

[chicharrones]

Have I muddied the waters enough, yet?

-kBob

Well done.

 

[Confederate]

Well, which one was it?

I hope it was the Ruger.

 

[B_Li_Ber_Tar_Ian]

Well, which one was it?

I hope it was the Ruger.

Yep

 

[Confederate]

Ruger, check. ✔

You happy? ☺

Got photos?

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