I have several Blackhawks, and prefer the 4 5/8" version. I have a .41 Mag, a .30 Carbine, and now a Lipsey Flattop .44 Spl. Too bad, but the .44 is a 5 1/2", all I could get at the time. I wish I could have, but I am not sorry I got it. The balance is better on the shorter barrel, in my opinion. My .44 is the easiest-to-hit-with revolver I own. It's worth the wait...especially if you really want one. the smaller frame is a dream-come-true. To make up for not finding a 4 5/8' .45 Colt, I bought an Italian Colt-clone with a 3" barrel. A smaller-frame big-bore... Have fun, Gene