I have not shot the Ruger SBH but own a few Freedom Arms. I would not look forward to shooting the 4 5/8" with 454 Casull loads, the muzzle blast will be significant. I would much prefer the 6.5". I now have a 7.5" FA 83 and had planned on reducing it to 6" but it is so much more comfortable to shoot with the longer barrel than I am dragging my feet. I have a Ruger Blackhawk in 10mm with the 4 5/8 and that is ok with full power loads but I would not want that in .454.