Originally Posted by
megasupermagnum
I own the entire range in 327 federal. LCR, SP101, and GP100. When I wear jeans, I'm carrying OWB every time. In that roll I take the SP101. I went as far as to do a custom 3" with fully adjustable sights. I do not carry at work, I'm a technician, and rolling on the floor all day is no place for anything. I can't even keep my wallet in my pockets. For that I carry my LCR in the truck most days, and pocket carry it when not working. The GP100 offers nothing substantial over the SP101 for defensive purposes, but I carry it just because once in a while.
I'll try to touch some comparisons between the LCR and SP101. For defensive use, the double action trigger is most important. The LCR is phenomenal in this regard. Great DA trigger. The SP101 has a better DA trigger than some J frames, but is still heavy. I've never used the LCRX, so I can't speak on that regard, but the SA trigger on both should be acceptable. My SP101 SA trigger is 4-5 pounds and breaks clean. The sights on both are not great. The LCR is better than the fixed sight SP101 though with its black finish. I really wish the LCR could be had with those low profile Novak sights. What I did for the SP101 is buy the 4.2" model, and cut the barrel to 3", and had a front sight base installed. The SP101 with grooved frame for a rear sight is poor. For handling, the LCR has one drawback, and that is that the ejector rod is short. You need to provide a good slap to eject the cases. The SP101 is far less fussy, with a much longer ejector. I like the LCR grips and still use the originals. I did not like the SP101 grips. There are a few acceptable aftermarket options out there. The LCR in 327 federal is manageable as far as shooting. It is not a gun I would like to shoot 200 rounds at a time with, but a box of 50 does not leave your hand stinging either, especially with lower power ammo. The SP101 is even better. That weight soaks up recoil. Speaking of weight, the LCR is 17 ounces, the SP101 is 27. The LCR is great in the pocket, no problem at all. I would not want to carry an SP101 all day in the pocket. Both work great on the hip. I don't like either IWB, but that is personal preference. The width of both is more similar that one would think. The SP101 is wider, but only by maybe 1/16", maybe less.
I hope that helps compare and contrast the LCR. One thing that sticks out is you make it sound like carrying is not that much of a concern. If all you want is something for in the house, and you don't want a long gun, then I would have to steer you towards the GP100 in either 327 federal 7 shot, or 357 magnum 6 shot. There is even a 357 magnum 7 shot.