Now, back to the topic: Deputy Editor Matsuo, being of the same generation, was naturally drawn to the Stroup custom. While fully appreciating the coolness of the 6-inch version, he was particularly intrigued by the 4-inch model’s more practical, real-world-oriented concept.

 

“What we wanted to create was a K-frame PPC custom. Back when model guns were mainstream, Pythons and N-frame models were produced, but the crucial K-frame PPC custom was never made as a mass-production item. However, making a match-only, full-on PPC custom today would feel out of place. So, I proposed the Stroup custom, which is suitable for matches, practical for real-world use, and visually striking.”

 

 

That makes sense. Nagata originally aimed for a practical, carry-oriented PPC custom suitable for the streets. This 4-inch version takes it a step further. Looking at it with fresh eyes, its allure only grows.

 

The rib sight, typically black, was custom-ordered in stainless steel, showcasing both dedication and style. Normally, the rib’s rear end would be extended significantly to maximize sight radius, but here it’s deliberately kept restrained.

 

 

The slim trigger with its grooves removed has a practical, not overly polished feel, and the wide-spur hammer exudes absolute reliability.

 

The Stroup’s locking system, identical to S&W’s, offers excellent usability. The standout feature is the small hole on the right side of the recoil shield for primer inspection, which wasn’t present on Nagata’s gun. Whether it’s a Stroup original is unclear, but it’s a clever “why didn’t I think of that” idea.

 

 

Man, it’s slick. It combines the fierce precision of a competition tool with the nimbleness of everyday carry, like a street-legal racecar. Based on the Model 65, it can handle magnum rounds if push comes to shove. Elegant yet flashy, it boasts formidable combat capability.

 

Before or since, this is the only 4-inch PPC custom I’ve ever seen. Missing out on the 6-inch was a shame, but I’m convinced choosing this one was the right call.

 

 

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I fired it casually.

 

It had signs of moderate use when I bought it, so it wasn’t just a display piece—it was likely shot in PPC matches. That said, I’m a bit concerned about barrel wear. So far, no flyers veering off in random directions, though.

 

I avoided magnum rounds and went with .38 Special +P Remington SJHP (125 grain). I’d have preferred lead rounds, but due to ammo shortages, I had to settle for jacketed bullets. Lining up the wide front sight blade on the 10-point ring, I fired in double action first!

 

 

Wow, the trigger is amazing! Strong yet smooth—an exquisite pull.

Even at 4 inches, with this weight (over 1.3 kg fully loaded), you can aim calmly and deliberately, and the recoil from +P rounds doesn’t feel like +P.

 

I cocked it and tried single action too. It’s crisp and refreshing. With just a light touch, the hammer drops cleanly. Back in my PPC days, I shot almost exclusively with a near-stock Model 686, but I can’t help but wish I’d had a sweet gun like this to compete with.

 

I fired just under 50 rounds, and the session wrapped up quickly. Not a single flyer. Still got plenty of life left? Nah, I don’t want to shoot it too often—it’s on the “cherish and preserve” plan.

 

 

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When I moved to the U.S. in the late 1980s, PPC was, in hindsight, starting to wane. With minimal movement and generous time limits, this competition was being overtaken by more realistic formats like the TRC (Tactical Revolver Course) and IPSC. The improved performance of autoloaders also played a role. Revolvers, limited by their capacity, were gradually losing ground. Even Nagata never showed up to a single match at the range back then.

 

Still, PPC matches were so laid-back and open that even a traveler from Japan could borrow a gun and join in. They were incredibly appealing and had a warm, welcoming vibe. For me, they’re a page straight out of my youth.

 

And now, a model gun that brings back those days is really coming to life. Pre-orders start at the end of November. It faithfully recreates the 4-inch model you see here, down to the primer inspection hole in the recoil shield. Learning from past PPC model guns that often broke due to insufficient barrel strength, this one ensures ample durability. For cost reasons, it uses an existing semi-wide hammer, and the grip is a resin version styled after the Nill Grip you see here. It’s a limited-time, made-to-order production, with 100% of orders guaranteed to be manufactured.

 

 

Man, I’m thrilled. While it may not fully restore the PPC custom’s former glory, this model gun will surely stir nostalgia among enthusiasts from that era and feel refreshingly novel to younger gun fans.

 

It’s been over 30 years since I was immersed in PPC. I never dreamed a day like this would come.

 

 

 

 

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