I love my 5.5 inch Bisley, but shoot my 6.0 inch Model 25 S&W just a little more accurately. I guess when I shoot the Ruger enough the difference will disappear. Hitting the target is still the most important factor. If the Ruger is too heavy to carry, then it may stay in camp instead of with you as a backup. The 4" mountain gun is a great weight for belt carry. I've also carried the 6" S&W in a full flap belt holster. My Ruger Redhawk and Blackhawk ride in a shoulder holster. The longer guns tend to be primary hunting revolvers, not backup for a rifle. The maximum load issue isn't really a consideration for me. I use the heaviest loads only when hunting and for final sighting in. The Rugers can take a continuous diet of heavy loads, but I don't think I can! lol

If you don't shoot the S&W alot w/ heavy loads, I like the bif N-frames. I however carry a SSBH in 4 5/8" as a packin pistol in the back country. It's stout, affordable & a 300grlfp @ a modest 1000fps is a deep penetrating thumper.