SBH vs. BH flat-top 44spc.

[collector rob]

I am considering buying a either a NVB445 (flat top 44 sp 5.5") or a KS45N (SBH stainless 5.5").
According to the Ruger web-site, they weigh the same, however the Blackhawk is slightly longer over-all, which surprised me. I figured the SBH would be longer.
Has anybody handled both of these and have any opinions on how handling compares on these two.
Caliber difference isn't so much of an issue, as I have other revolvers chambered in either caliber.
I am leaning towards the SBH, due to the stainless construction, and the ability to fire magnums. However I like the looks of the Flattop.

If only ruger made a Flattop stainless SBH....

 

[Yosemite Sam]

I have both the 5.5" .44 FT and a 5.5" stainless Bisley BH in .45 Colt. I'd say the feel and handling characteristics are quite different, but part of that is due to one being a Bisley. The larger frame does "feel" heavier.

Keep in mind there is a Lipsey's special .44 FT in stainless. I'm waiting for the Bisley version of this gun.

-- Sam

 

[jforwel]

Of course the easy answer is buy both! If you want to shoot magnums then the SBH is the only one as the other will only shoot specials.

 

[batmann]

I am kind of in the same boat. I have a blued 4 5/8 .44 Special Falttop and a stainless on order, but have thinking just like you. My problem is I want the 4 5/8's barrel on my SBH, BUT also want the fluted cyl. I am trying to decide which is the cheapest way to go, buy the 5 1/2" SBH and have it cut down or buy a 4 5/8's SBH and have the cylinder fitted.
If you go with the .44 Special Flattop, especially if you get one in stainless, it will be a great handgun. Ammo is expensive so the ability to shoot both mags and specials might be a consideration.

 

[Aggie01]

My problem is I want the 4 5/8's barrel on my SBH, BUT also want the fluted cyl. I am trying to decide which is the cheapest way to go, buy the 5 1/2" SBH and have it cut down or buy a 4 5/8's SBH and have the cylinder fitted.

Neither:
Buy the 4 & 5/8" and have the cylinder in it fluted. Fitting a fluted cylinder involves buying a cylinder and shipping the gun.

Ship just the cylinder and have it fluted - and it already fits the gun.

 

[batmann]

Is having a cyl fluted cheaper than having a barrel shortened?

 

[Nicksterdemus]

I'm not much help.

I bought the flat top 5.5 to help promote the 44 spl & support Ruger for building it.

I liked it, so I bought the Bisley 4 5/8.

The stocks/grip frame could be thinner/more recessed for my hand, but I still like the feel better.

Good luck in your choice...
---------
Enjoy your purchase. You are correct, the price is right...

 

[collector rob]

Well I solved my dilemma. I split the difference and bought a 50th anniversary 44mag Blackhawk from CDNN. The barrel is longer than I would have liked, but it has the flattop look I prefer and can shoot magnums if needed.
This has to be one of the best values currently out there, $379.00 + 18 for shipping. :D

 

[Lo-Bo]

Either one will work fine for most shooting needs. I would say if you plan on using the gun mostly for hunting go with the magnum. If not the special is a great gun. The SBH comes with 2 different grips frames and barrel lengths. Original SBH with square back grip frame has unfluted cyl.
I have seen the short barrel standard grip frame without fluted cyl. and the 5 1/2" with fluted cyl. I believe all SBH models have steel grip frames. Pick the one that fits your hand the best and that has the options you want . They are all great guns. Myself I favor a Bisley grip frame over all of the models but I do have one of the first Lispey .44 special flattop models and really like it.

 

[wetidlerjr]

I have the SS 4 5/8" 44MAG SBH and the 5 1/2" 44SPEC FT so I guess I have it all. :D
(I put an aluminum grip frame on the 44 FT so it's even better. :wink:)