I bought the Patriot 2 days before Christmas, treating myself. I took it out and shot it 2 days later while we had 50 degrees weather. What a joy to shoot. With the barrel being 3″, I thought it might have a pretty good kick, but very manageable. My wife shot it also and she thought it was fun to shoot. I went ahead and ordered a 4.25″ barrel and have not had a chance to get out and shoot it yet. I want to order a 3.5″ barrel also. I think these guns are built like a tank, very good quality and offer a variety of barrels for different calibers. I think the 45 colt/410, you cannot go wrong on. Good job Bond Arms!