I use a Ruger Blackhawk .45 Colt with a 4 5/8" barrel as my normal handgun for hikes and fishing. It is easier to carry than my .44 Mag. S&W 629 with a 6" barrel, and with a good load it is quite powerful. It is a tough and reliable "little" revolver, and it is more fun to shoot than the .44 Mag.