355Sigfan, you're missing some things:
If you know what you're doing with one of these suckers, "first strike speed" is the highest of any handgun system. Only the 1911 comes close. Go check out a Bob Munden videotape at a gun show or something.
Ever shot an SA? Ever felt what they're like in the hand, how naturally they point, how since the cylinder is locked in place, on average they're more accurate than DA wheelguns?
Or let's talk power level. A Ruger SA in .45LC can throw a 325grain hardcast at 1,300fps, that's factory ammo (Buffalo Bore) in a factory gun. In a smaller package than most .44Mags, with hotter ammo, and with the Bisley grip more comfortably. It's possible to shoot that stuff one-handed, with a Bisley variant. You can't get factory .44Mag fodder that hot, because the smaller case volume leads to higher pressure. Put that same Buffalo Bore fodder in an N-Frame S&W chambered in .45LC and you'll very quickly find out why the stuff is labeled "Ruger ONLY!!!". Yes, it works in Ruger DAs too but that's only because the Ruger DAs are over 10oz heavier than their SAs and a lot bulkier.
With slight tuning, Freedom Arms .454s are known to be capable of 2" groups. Not at 25 yards - at 100. (A few have managed true MOA, with some more tuning
.) It's possible to get that out of a Ruger, although once you've done the necessary custom barrel and linebored cylinder, you've spent as much as you would on an FA.
No question, you have to make a commitment to mastering 'em...but it's worth it.