SAA style revolvers 4 3/4 or 5 1/2

[StuP]

Which barrel length do you think provides the best balance and "shootability"

 

[Lionheart]

5 1/2…0r 7 1/2.

 

[cmshoot]

4 3/4”

 

[WildBillHimself]

Since there is only 3/4" difference between those barrel lengths, there isn't much difference in how they feel and shoot. I prefer the 4 3/4" because of the appearance as much as anything.
A single action with the 7 1/2" barrel is another matter. I can shoot it with a lot more accuracy than a shorter barrel.
Handling and drawing from a holster aren't that bad with a 7 1/2" and if it's a .45 the weight isn't really an issue.
Matt Dillon's shooter had a 7 1/2" barrel and he handled it well!

 

[basstracker89]

I've had all the barrel lengths from sheriff's model to buntlines. The 7 1/2 shoots just about as good as a 12" buntline. I've found the 5 1/2 as the best over all. It's still fast enough on a draw and shoots almost as good as a 7 1/2. I always thought the 4 3/4 was just plain sexy. Even if the barrel has an ejector rod, it's almost useless with a barrel less than 4 3/4. The sheriff's models are cool, but a reload is quite a bit slower. But it's the ultimate pocket carry in this style pistol. 45 Colt is king, good stopping power and accuracy

 

[Bennyboy]

Prefer the looks of the 4-3/4” but a 5-1/2” balances and points better for me.

 

[drewga11]

I prefer the look of the 5 1/2. The 4 3/4 guns look weird to me.

 

[Winterborne]

You need to shoot both the long and short pistols.

Today's gun games of speed favors the short pistols.....but practical accuracy is easier with the 7 1/2".

Standing in your bedroom in your underwear doing fast draws in the mirror will look cool to your wife as well.

I don't shoot "cowboy competition" loads. I prefer the full power stuff and shoot the 7 1/2" barrels as I can hit at way longer distance with them.

5 yards and in go short for speed as your not aiming anyway...but at 20-100 yards go long.