I've had a recurring itch for a .32 caliber SP101 for quite awhile now. I like the balance of the current production .327 Magnum with FO front sight and adjustable rear. But the ramp for the front sight makes the whole thing look ungainly and Bowen doesn't make a Rough Country rear for the littlest Ruger. I'm also pretty sure I won't like the blast of the .357 in a 4.2-inch barrel, so I'm open to .32 H&R. Understanding that does mean I'll basically have to load every round I ever put through it.
SP101 thinking that it's going to be a bit smaller and lighter than a K frame, but still with six rounds. I don't trust Colt's quality on the new Cobra and the aesthetics of the Kimber are offensively artless. There's the new 856 Defender, but I'm hesitant about taking on the un-kittening of a Taurus. Life may be too short for that. Having a cylinder latch that operates the same as my other DA revolvers (all Rugers) seems like a good idea.
I'm currently targeting the 4-inch .32 H&R with drift-adjustable rear sight. I like the smaller, pinned front sight and less snaggy rear that won't move around randomly under recoil, but is still better as a sight than just a groove. They are hard to find and there's lots of competition to buy them when they do pop up.
I'm thinking I would prefer the 4-inch barrel for maximizing velocity (small difference over a 3-inch, but something) and minimizing blast. But the 3-inch is going to be a couple ounces lighter, possibly carry a little nicer, and is easier to find. It's not like I can go out to a local range and rent a 4-inch and a 3-inch revolver in .32 H&R to see how they are.
What are y'all's thoughts on 4-inch vs 3-inch barrels
a. with the .32 H&R cartridge
b. in an SP101?