I think a little perspective is in order, Max.
Yes, a Ruger is a better hunting revolver than a Colt repro, just like a compound bow is better than a longbow, an in-line muzzle loader is better than a flintlock, and a scoped Remington 700 is better than an 1873 Winchester. I personally have never understood someone seeking the challenge of hunting with a handgun, a bow or a muzzle loader, then pushing that technology to the edge with pullies, cables, scopes, synthetic stocks, sabots, sights that require batteries, and revolvers that weigh nearly as much as carbines and have to be carried in special rigs, but to each his own. Likewise, I'm sure you don't understand why anyone would want to take to the field with a fixed sighted revolver, a longbow or a flintlock, but again to each his own. We don't all feel the need to hunt with huge revolvers chambered in cartridges whose chamber pressure exceeds that of many rifle cartridges, but I support those who do.
This is the sixth hunting season I've used a Uberti of some flavor to take at least part of our annual venison supply, and I get an enormous amount of satisfaction out of doing so, much more than I would with the Blackhawk that sits idle in my safe.
35W
You’ve misread me entirely. I have nothing against the various SAA replicas. You push the technology because we have made strides forward. We know more and make better equipment and components. Also, when you venture beyond 120-lb whitetails to game that is more tenacious and/or capable of hurting you, you would be well served by stepping up. Even with whitetail I like loads that don’t merely poke a hole. If I don’t have to track, I am happy. I also prefer adjustable sights for obvious reasons even though I have no issues with fixed-sighted revolvers. I’m applaud your choice, but to deny that the Ruger is the more practical and versatile choice is intellectually dishonest. The .45 Colt can be sooooo much more.
As far as using optics are concerned, this is a function of vision quality. When you exceed a certain age, your up-close vision takes a walk. My eyes are 20-15 and 20-20, but I need reading glasses up close. Have you ever hunted with reading glasses? It’s HARD and not something I recommend doing when game is dangerous. So yes, it is a matter of perspective.