Half shroud vs. Full shroud revolver barrels
 

What's the difference?
I'm considering a Ruger GP-100 4 inch stainless

Check out:
http://www.armscor.com.ph/armscor/revolver.htm

and compare the top and bottom pictures looking at the length of the ejector rod housing relative to the bbl.

Mainly a matter of looks. Full shroud gives a tad more muzzle weight.

I have heard the half-shroud balances the gun better as the full leaves too much weight at the barrel. Either way, I shot a GP-100 on fathers day and I would definitely recommend that gun to anyone. It has a little bit more flash and bang than a 6 inch but it is still manageable (My fiancee was dead on with some pretty hot loads at 15 yards). Once you get it go and get yourself some Corbon 200 grain bullets. They have been chronoed at 1,200 fps and they are lots of fun to shoot. Good luck and safe shooting.

The GP-100 is available with a six inch barrel.

Yes. I think they also have a 3 inch.
Check this: http://www.kitsune.addr.com/Firearms...uger_GP100.htm