I have a “few” GP 100’s. I agree with you that it is the greatest revolver ever made, and it’s my favorite of all time. I’ve recently been looking at the 7-shot models, and even considered .327 for more capacity. They can handle any load. The Gun is over built. I was recently at the gun range. After I finished, I browsed their showroom. Stainless GP 100’s were around $900. The first one I ever bought was about half that price (blued). I also sold a used one to a friend of mine for $350. I since regret that sale. But, he is a friend, and he got a very good price. I’ve always said that part of my retirement plan is to occasionally sell off a gun on Gunbroker.
My friends say the S&W 686 has a softer trigger and they are right. I own a 686 and out of the box it has a softer trigger. It is also $500 more expensive. For $10 you can buy a new trigger spring for the GP-100 and it takes 15 minutes to instal. Then you have the greatest handgun ever made. I can shoot a tomato at 25 yards with my GP using double action. It is pretty awesome.