Ruger GP100 .44 Special

The GP100 platform seems to fly under the radar a little bit, likely because it's beefier than some of its competitors. It may be a little overbuilt, but that makes it rugged and easier to control. And now it's available in .44 Special, a practical caliber for personal defense because it hits hard without undue recoil. With its 3-inch full-lug barrel, it weighs 36 ounces. The sample we shot was superbly accurate, and with the comfortable Hogue Monogrips, we could've spent the entire day at the range with it.