Ruger Blackhawk 5.5" or 7.5"

[mattaylor81]

I am looking at getting a Blackhawk 44 Rem Mag mainly for a sidearm when in the woods.  Could potentially be used for hunting, but primarily a carry/backup when out in the woods.  Looking for recomendations on either a 5.5" or a 7.5" model.  Thanks for any advice.  Currently use a GP100 4" 357 Mag for a sidearm in the woods.

[headshot5]

I have one with a 7.5" barrel and enjoy it alot.  I also used to have a 4" GP also but I sold it.  It was a heck of a shooter, but I prefer the .44 mag.  I have never shot a 5.5" blackhawk but my brother has a redhawk with a 5.5" barrel and it is also a great shooter.  Either way you should be happy with the blackhawk.  Barrel length really depends on if you are going to use it more for hunting or packing. 
          later,
                Adam 

[Ray]

Good gun. Any size. For a "backup gun" whatever that might constitute .... I'd go with the smaller barrel. I currently have a 7.5 and it is large and I LOVE shooting the darned thing. More fun than the rifles sometimes.

[MHWASH]

 I'd definatly go with the 5.5". I used to have a couple of longer barreled revolvers, but for packing the shorter the better. I use a 4 5/8 .41 for my packin gun.

[Head-shot]

Good gun. Any size. For a "backup gun" whatever that might constitute .... I'd go with the smaller barrel. I currently have a 7.5 and it is large and I LOVE shooting the darned thing. More fun than the rifles sometimes.

I agree, I have one just like your Ray and it is large. The 5.5 is a better choice IMO as a backup gun. When you need it you won't take all day pulling it out...

[bankwalker]

i carried a redhawk 44mag 8" barrel last season as my "back up/brush gun" and it was just to in the way imo as a sidearm while hunting.

but it was very nice when hunting thick brush. i could just leave the rifle in the truck when i knew i was gonna hunt a thick area.

personaly i would go with a 5.5" or if you can find one with a 4" to use as a sidearm for hunting.