First thing's first, the revolver is going to be chambered in .41 Mag, not up for debate. This is NOT about bears more than any other hunting scenario would require. This is a gun to be open carried second to a rifle that has plenty of oomph for whatever quarry is being pursued. The purpose of the .41 for practical terms, is to be used if a target presents itself within feasible ranges, defensively from 2 or 4 leggers if the rifle is damaged or unreachable, and as a placebo against everything that goes bump in the night when I'm dreaming of the boogeyman. I like a little bit of barrel length, but found I'm decent with 3" barrels as well. I VERY much like the 4 5/8" idea, I also like 6" barrels. However, I am not sure packing a 6+" blackhawk or 57 up and down the hills chasing elk and cougars and black bears is the most practical in terms of efficiency. So, here I am, wanting some input from my fellow highroaders about the just right amount of barrel to have on your hip, get into action quickly, and still be effectively accurate. Also, this is a no scope proposition.