This is somewhat a subject I can comment on. I have two hunting handguns, a NMBH in 45 colt and a S&W model 657 Classic Hunter. Both have had scopes mounted on them. Both have had red dots and pistol scopes. To me a scope on the blackhawk was ugly and useless. It shot ok with both. But it was not convenient. A 45 colt with a 5-1/2 barrel is not for scopes. I use a One Ragged Hole rear site and it is just right fo me. 25y, quick cross draw and hits what I aim at and looks good. I carry it always when out.
The 657 has a 6-1/2 barrel and shoots like a laser from the bench. Had a 2X pistol scope. Shot 4" at 100y. But in the field was difficult to hold steady and shoot. 25y was max free hand and even rested, tree branch, 50y was max for me. Cheap scope not a long eye relief, from the bench great. I now have a Millot red dot, 1" tube, no eye relief necessary, and although not as accurate much easier to use. Much more confident shooting out to 75y. Two eyes open and all I see is the target and the dot. This comparable to the scopes you mentioned in size. My battery lasts for a week on all the time. Forgetting to turn it off. I have never had a dead battery. I have 11 settings, depends on conditions. Bright sunlight must be turned up to about 8 and it does cover the target at long distance. In the woods shady, about 4 or 5, nice. I have shot a few deer with this gun, bang flop at 30y. Most rested, one standing, best was 55y rested. My smith is comparable to your redhawks.
