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surprise_i'm_armed wrote:karder: AFAIK, the Judge can handle .45 Long Colt, but not .45 ACP.

You are correct. I should have said Governor as that one shoots the .45acp with moon clips. I would not mind trying out the S&W version as I have heard the fit and finish is a bit better than the Taurus, but I don't know if that is true or not. If I were to buy one, I would go for the Governor as I have a lot of .45acp stock on hand.

Personally, I like the platform while understanding it is a bit of a niche tool. These guns take a lot of criticism, but I think most of it is unwarranted. They are fun to shoot, and the ability to shoot .410 does open up some possibilities. If you want it for self-defense, .45lc or .45acp will get the job done. I would not put one in my carry rotation, as I have better options, but I would not mind having one in my toolbox. I don't know why a .45acp coming out of a 2 1/2 inch barrel is less effective in the judge than any other brand of compact handgun with the same barrel length. Granted, if I am shooting .45 for self-defense, I would rather be doing it with my Colt or Kimber, but that is my personal opinion.
I have more guns than I need, so when I purchase now "fun factor" is pretty high on my list of requirements, and the Judge/Governor seems like it would fit the bill.