Never had the pleasure, myself, but here's my two cents. I've seen used prices as low as $500 something, and new I think they're over a grand. Barrel length makes a difference in that it gives a longer/better powder burn, netting you higher muzzle velocity. Indirect advantage of having a longer sighting plane, which is good for iron sights. Also keeps muzzle flip down (not that that's something you'd worry about with this pistol. Huge difference? Couldn't tell you.