I'm in the market for a single seven and trying to decide between the 5.5" barrel and the 7.5" barrel in stainless steel.

For those who own either or both, or have shot either or both, which would you go for?

Would also be interested to know others' opinions on how each balances in the hand. For those with first-hand experience, what's the most comparable S&W model/barrel length to each in that regard? I've seen the specs for each, but that's just numbers on a page.

I’d choose the 5.5”.

You’ll get more than enough velocity from the .327, but it’ll pack better and balance better (for me) without being too muzzle heavy. The .327 is wicked from a 3” barrel. From a 5.5, it’s much better still. A 7.5 would (for me) reach the point of diminishing returns. Been there done that.

I am very happy with My 5.5 incher. Wouildn't want one any longer.

Jay and Dave, thanks for your responses.

Anybody for the opposing view?

I never hesitated, 7-1/2" for me. I like the reduced blast and greater sight radius. I wish they would come out with a Single Seven 9-1/2" in blue to match my Single Six .22 and .32 H&R guns.

I bought the 5.5 inch when they first got announced. It's been great. I love the easy way it carries, it's very accurate and does everything I need out of a Michigan woods walking pistol. That said, if I had bought the 7.5 inch I am sure I would like it just as well. Either one will be good, so get both.

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Plastic has no soul

keithhagan, whichever you decide, please let us (me!) know how it shoots. You know, accuracy, kick, power, etc. I've been really interested in the .327 Fed mag for quite a while now...but the little boss isn't. (Meaning get rid of one before you buy another one!) I didn't grow up with handguns, just rifles/shotguns, so the .357 is hard for me to control over 30 yards and I had to put rubber Hogues on my Model 10 to keep my middle finger alive. I've read about the .327's power and low kick. A 7-shot revolver in a decent caliber intrigues me. I've got my eyes on the Lipsey's Ruger or the SS GP-100 in .327 and/or the single 7. Ethang has the best answer yet! Good luck.

"I've got my eyes on the Lipsey's Ruger..."

I've got a Lipsey's Bisley Single-Seven in .327 magnum (it was only offered with the 5.5" barrel), it's the best new .32 Long wadcutter revolver you can buy.



As far as barrel length, I would have liked it to be 6.5" (not 7.5") just because that's traditional old school Ruger, but the 5.5 balances well, as it usually does on most handguns.

If you want to go through the day with normal activities and have a gun along, I find 5.5 and less to be nice. If you want a gun to take out and shoot then put away portability might not be a big decision factor.

Jeffrefrig, will do.

In the next week or two, I'm picking up a Model 60-10 from the gunsmith that I had fitted with a 632 cylinder and 5" full lug barrel. Does that change anyone's opinion?

As others have suggested, it depends on how you plan to use it. Many years ago, I traded a S&W 15 for a Ruger .357 Blackhawk with a 6.5 inch barrel. Never carried it much because it was too unwieldy for a short guy getting on and off horses and in and out of pickups. If for carry, I'd get the shorter barrel. Range toy, go 7.5.

Personally I like the 5 1/2.