Changing the .45 Colt ?

[41 Magnum]

I have one .45 Colt Stainless Blackhawk left, in the 7½" Bbl. I've decided I'd like it with a little more manageable length Bbl. Should I trade it, have my Smith cut it, or send it back & have a 4⅝" or 5½" Bbl. installed ?? Anyone ??

 

[Sagebrush Burns]

If you have a competent smith, cutting it off would be easy and should be inexpensive. I've gone that route and been pleased.

 

[David Bradshaw]

Accuracy should factor into whether you shorten your factory barrel or fit an aftermarket. In addition, slug your barrel, checking for tight spots and loose spots. Check for a compression ring in bore where frame shoulders barrel. The production barrel is every bit in individual, perhaps more so than, say, a barrel by Shilen, Douglas, or PacNor. Should you settle on a 5-1/2 inch barrel, by all means install the stainless version (from the KS411N Silver Hornpipe) of the .357 Maximum ejector assembly. The Maximum ejector completely clears spent cases, a most practical advantage.
David Bradshaw