How to Remove the Barrel in a GP100

Ruger introduced the GP100 revolver in 1986. Chambered in .357 Magnum and .327 Magnum, the double-action pistol holds six or seven rounds, depending on the caliber. Ruger ships several variants of the pistol with 3- to 6-inch barrels with either a stainless steel or blue finish. Properly replacing the barrel on any revolver generally requires the services of a gunsmith, but removing the barrel in a GP100 is accomplished with a few tools.

Things You'll Need

  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Revolver frame and barrel wrench set
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ensure the pistol is unloaded and safe with which to work. With the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, press the crane latch on the left side. Swing the cylinder out and press the ejector rod to ensure no live rounds remain in the pistol.

    • 2

      Disassemble the pistol. Using the flathead screwdriver, remove the screws securing the grip panels and remove the panels. Cock the hammer and insert the provided disassembly pin into the hole behind the mainspring housing strut. The pin remains in place to prevent the mainspring strut from releasing tension until reassembly. Pull and hold the trigger to remove the hammer pivot and hammer. Press the trigger guard lock and pull the trigger guard assembly out of the pistol. Press the cylinder latch button with your thumb and remove the cylinder and crane assembly.

    • 3

      Remove the barrel. Lock the frame of the pistol into the action wrench. Insert the barrel blocks into a vice. Insert the barrel into the barrel blocks and tighten to secure the pistol into place. Turn the action wrench counterclockwise to remove the barrel. A breaker bar is sometimes required to increase the leverage on the action wrench and get the barrel free.