IDPA Divisions: Stock Service Revolver

Probably one of the least participated in divisions is Stock Service Revolver. Unlike USPSA, IDPA has two separate iron-sight revolver divisions, one for revolvers that load from moon clips, and one for revolvers that load from "traditional" speed loaders. The division for your classic speedloader wheelguns is called Stock Service Revolver, and here is what the IDPA Rule Book has to say about it:

A. Any revolver of .38 Caliber (.357” or larger) or larger that
utilizes ammunition with a rimmed case and is not reloaded with a full moon clip.
B. Barrel length of 4.2” or less (as measured from the front of the cylinder).
C. Have a maximum unloaded weight of 42 oz.
D. Be loaded to the division capacity of six (6) rounds in the cylinder. Seven (7) and eight (8) shot revolvers are permitted, but may only load six (6) rounds.

Additionally, revolvers in SSR have a relatively extensive list of permitted modifications that you can make to them.

1. Sights to another conventional notch and post type (see “sights” in glossary for further information).
2. Action work to enhance trigger pull as long as safety is maintained (smoothing the trigger face, removing the hammer spur, use of over travel stop, conversion to DA only and addition of ball detent are considered action work and are permitted).
3. Grips to another style or material that is similar to factory
configuration (no weighted grips).
4. Chamfer the rear of the chambers.
5. Shortening of factory barrels.
6. Custom finishes.

So if you're looking for a gun to shoot in Stock Service Revolver, if you have a Ruger GP100, or a Smith & Wesson ModelXWhatever chambered in .357, you are good to go. Your ammo needs to make a power factor of 125 (bullet weight x velocity / 1000). Here are the muzzle velocities and bullet weights necessary to hit the power floor with a .38 Special (note - I set the power factor to 127 to give you wiggle room):

158 grains - 803 fps
148 grains - 858 fps
130 grains - 976 fps
125 grains - 1016 fps

As you can see, it's pretty easy to find ammo that meets that power factor right off the shelf. Just about any .38 Special +P load is going to meet that power factor, and then you'll be off to the races.