I bought one when they first came out in 357. It has always been my favorite church gun. It is on my hip today and most days. Nobody ever knows it is there. I have always carried 38 Special +P 158 LSWCHP in it.
I have a short barreled .38, shoots good and it tough as can be. Would like the 3 inch barrel someday I think, one of these days I will find a companion for it.
I purchased my sp101 last night. 357 mag. LOVE IT. Everyone was saying "357 snub nose is gonna tear your hand off" but man... It felt great (this coming from a first time handgun shooter)
I got mine at the Indy 1500 several years ago. It had factory Crimson Trace laser grips with the Ruger symbol. I walked past it several times and just couldn't leave without it. I don't carry it much anymore but it'll never be sold. I shoot Speer .357 GD short barrel rounds in it and it is sweet. Even with the Federal 125gr or 158gr hollow points it isn't too hot to handle. And I personally love the cylinder unlocking push button better than any other revolver's release.
I have always liked the SP-101. Recently got to shoot the new(ish) "kit gun" model with the 4" barrel and fiber optic front sight, and found it to be very mild-mannered for a small-frame .357. And it just so happens to look good, too.