need help on picking a new barrel for my Encore down to two

[butchen]

Growing up I was a 44mag nut, rifles, revolvers, automag, Desert Eagle, the works. And a Dan Wesson 445sm. But like all kids I found a new toy. Mine was 45-70 ssk Contender. So I got to be a 45 fan and went to the 45lc and started hot loading it. Now as a Big Kid I have a 500 S&W 12" Encore.
Ok now my need for help, I want a backpacking Encore (Yes I have a 4 5/8" Blackhawk 45lc for that but I want an Encore, the big kid thing again)and I am going to put a 8",maybe 6" barrel on my encore in one of two rounds. Seeing as I have the stuff for a 454 or a 445. And tons of reloading data, brass, bullets, dies every thing for both. I just can't pick the 454 or the 445.
Which do you think is the better. 445 or the 454? I love them both and can't make up my mind! They both have there high points and I can't find a low point for the two. So here I sit hoping you can help.

Oh and I thought of the 475/480 but I have all the reloading stuff for the other two rounds, down to cases and bullets.

Thanks hope you can help me.

[Austin from NC]

445 is harder to find brass but it is my choice because of well just because. Lots of people have 454 not many have a 445.

[butchen]

445 is harder to find brass but it is my choice because of well just because. Lots of people have 454 not many have a 445.

I like the way you think "just because" has made a lot of my barrel picks. I like to be different that is why the 6" Encore for backpacking. And I think if you have just one shot you tend to make it count and not worry so much about that follow up shot.
Thanks lets see what others say.............

[Mike Scott]

For a backpacking gun, you can do the 445 in a Contender and save a bunch of weight.

[butchen]

For a backpacking gun, you can do the 445 in a Contender and save a bunch of weight.

Didn't think of that! I have a 10" 44 I could have turned into a 445.........hmmm
Who is someone that has a quick turn around time on doing a rechamber?

[Austin from NC]

Isnt there a 445 reamer here for rent. You can do it yourself easily I think ask the handi guys.

[butchen]

Isnt there a 445 reamer here for rent. You can do it yourself easily I think ask the handi guys.

WOW didn't think of that and I have done it before on a 44 14" to a 444 and a 7br to a 284win. And more and I didn't think of doing it myself. So goes life.