If you are concerned about recoil then get the longer barrel. The weight of the barrel will cut down on the recoil. I have 2 ported Taurus raging bulls in 44 mag and the 6" kicks a lot more than the 8".

There is no words to describe the 500 smith. I would have to agree that the recoil is less than a non ported 454. The noise and the air displacement? is what makes it not fun to shoot. Price out ammo its about $2 a shot for the 500. Also the reloading supplies(Bullets, brass) are expensive too. The 500 is sweet and I will probally buy one but I have to get my desert eagle 50 AE first.
Jay