I am getting a Ruger Super Blackhawk 44mag. It will be just to carry for backup\protection and to have fun with. Should I get the 4 5/8" or the 5 1/2" barrel? I like both but I am not sure what to get.

I like the 5 1/2" barrel several companies make holsters for these chad

I used to own a Super Blackhawk in 44 magnum with a 4 5/8" barrel, and it was a hand full. I would go with the 5 1/2" or even 6 1/2".

With a cartridge this big, longer is pretty much the way to go...especially if you plan to shoot full house ammo through it. But actually if you throttle back slightly with the big magnum pistols you could do very nicely with the shorter bbl. They are faster, easier and handier to carry and use. And these are pretty important issues IMHO. My first few pistols were all 4" bbls and I shot a zillion rounds through them and just got used to that length and feel. Actually I've found I don't shoot any better or more accurately with longer barrels.

If you get the shorter bbl, try something like 19grs of 2400 behind a 215 gr bullet and I think you'll fall in love with it.

I'd favor the shorter barrel for a backup-carry gun.

Rocky Mountain Elk Load:
58 Caliber TC Renegade
120Gr Goex FFG
Dry Wad
.015 Patch
.570 Hornady Roundball

That'd do it, alright. I'd use my flinlock Jaeger.
.735", 597.5 grain PRB, 150 grains of Swiss FFg
MV 1500 FPS ME 3000 F/P



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There is not that much difference in weight at all. I was looking at one with the 5 1/2" barrel and really liked it. I might go with the 5 1/2". It will still be easy to carry.

As long as you can handle. Short barrels and magnums are a poor mix.

Sharp Shooter I sent you an e-mail [email protected]

I'd go with a 5 1/2" minimum.

Well maybe I will consider the 7 1/2" barrel. Will that be too heavy or make it difficult to carry on my belt? It cant be too bad can it?