You coulda just asked "Ford or Chevy", as EVERYONE will have their own OPINION ... for example, In MY opinion, I very much prefer the handling, looks and style of my 1858 Remingtons, so I bought a (used) Kirst Konverter. I am VERY happy with it. I like to shoot it as a ball and cap revolver AND as a cartridge gun. I would buy BOTH. In fact, I plan for my next purchase to be a Ruger Blackhawk Convertable 45/45ACP ... the only downside is, the ever-more restrictive government will know about it when I buy it. As to cost, my Remmies cost me $130 for the blued one in 1994/5, and $175 for the Stainless one in 2006, both were Factory seconds. The Kirst Koverter cost me $200 (no tax). Locally, the Ruger Blackhawk Convertable will cost me $390 (plus tax). For now, I can shoot a semi-sortof "period correct" Remington conversion ... or ball and cap revolver ... depending upon my whim at the moment. Plus, in Minnesota, the 45 Colt is a legal deer cartridge. Another thing, as mentioned before, yes, 38 special is cheaper to shoot. 45 Colt is EXPENSIVE ($28 to $44 for a box of 50 around here). I bought a die set, and can load a box of 50 for $10. Obviously, reloading .38/.357 should be cheaper yet.