I encountered this same situation, ready to buy the new 5 shot version only to find out they discontinued it! VERY disappointed.... Anyway, I pondered for a loooong time about cutting my SRH 7.5" down to have an easier carry gun for summer fishing and camping. One day I got so fed up with beating myself up with research, flip-flop decisions, and trying to find one online that I walked out to my shop stuck my SRH in the saw and cut the barrel off! :shock: I was finally commited and it felt great. I cut it down to 3.5" right at the edge of the warning label. The balnce was perfect. I installed a Weigand DX front sight base with a green Hi-Viz overmold sight. Went out back and chronoed a 6 shot group. Average fps was 1086 with 400 gr. Hardcast and H110. Control was very manageable and I have no regrets with my long awaited decision.

Sorry so long winded but hope this helps. Would post a pic but not sure how on this sight. - Footedshaft