Elmer Keith used to shoot squirrels with an 1851 Navy when he was growing up in Missouri. It so happens I just came back from my first range day with a Pietta copy, the one Cabela's is selling for $200. What a hoot! I have heard they shoot high, etc, but this one was right on. Very nicely balanced with just the right amount of weight forward. I also have a Colt C-series that will go along next time. No complaints about the Italian, though. Haven't tried the Dragoon, but I think I might spring for an Italian copy of the 1860 Army. You might consider that if you want a bigger bore. They sell .44 Navy copies, but there never was such a thing back in the day.