A well-made rimfire revolver can be a work of art, not only fun and useful, but a source of pride. One of my favorite handguns is a Colt Diamondback .22 that was made in 1972. It is a treasured revolver that was a gift from my father.

When Ruger (www.ruger.com) wants to, they can manufacture a superlative, beautifully machined, lifetime product. The GP100 .22 is an example of such a gun and it comes packaged in a fitted plastic case. Unfortunately, many folks do not actually buy what they claim to want so badly.

This is the opposite of a .22 rimfire that looks or feels like a toy. The gun looks great. The grips fill the hand nicely and are supremely comfortable. Hardwood inserts decorate the sides of the black rubber grip. Like all GP100 revolvers, the grip frame accommodates a wide variety of aftermarket grips.

The patented transfer bar mechanism protects against inadvertent discharges, not allowing the gun to fire unless the trigger is pulled all the way to the rear. Ruger's triple-locking cylinder is locked into the frame at the front, rear and bottom for more positive alignment and dependable operation. In addition, takedown of integrated subassemblies requires no special tools, which allows for easy maintenance and assembly.

Specifications

• Model Number: 1757
• Caliber: .22 LR (also .22 Long and .22 Short)
• Grips: Cushioned Rubber with Hardwood Insert
• Front Sight: Fiber Optic
• Barrel Length: 5.50 in.
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Capacity: 10 rounds
• Rear Sight: Adjustable
• Twist: 1:16 in. RH
• Finish: Satin Stainless
• Overall Length: 11.30 in.
• Weight: 42 oz.
• Grooves: 6
• 2016 MSRP: $829.00

At 2-5/8 pounds, the GP100 .22 is a very substantial, stable revolver that is easy to shoot and shoot well. The green fiber optic front bead yields a very clear sight picture. The single action trigger is glass rod crisp, breaking right at five pounds. A set of Wolff springs will reduce that to around three pounds.

The ten round cylinder gives this revolver the same capacity as most .22 target autoloaders and its cylinder is easier to load from an open box of .22 cartridges than an autoloader's magazine. Unlike an autoloader, the GP100 can also use .22 Long and .22 Short cartridges, a real advantage in these days of .22 LR ammo shortages.

Ruger's recently released stainless GP100 .22 is a superbly crafted revolver that is made in Newport, New Hampshire USA. This is one of those rare, supremely satisfying handguns that you'll want to buy for your son, your best girl and for yourself.