I grow Kiowa (among others) and it produces a good flavored large blackberry. Mine average about 13g in size. For comparison, wild blackberries, at least here in KY average around 3-4g in size. I have not grown Black Butte but from the comments I have read on this forum, Kiowa is a better choice, especially in the south.

Yeah, I'm finding better reviews on Kiowa. That's probably what I will go with. Thanks for the comment!

Ive not been real impressed with Kiowa for flavor. Seem to be more sour than anything. Im in the process of getting rid of Kiowa and replacing with Tupi which is a much better berry at least in my neck of the woods.

Love my Kiowas - biggest berry I've ever grown, and very productive - but thorny as hell! Thinking about trying a few Chickasaw, as well - but Tupi sounds intriguing; don't know much about availability on it, though.
Have not even seen Black Butte mentioned in any discussion threads in years - was getting favorable reviews for a while, but then just seemed to drop out of sight.

bb1977, you might need to leave 'em on the cane an extra day or so once they reach full color. to ripen a bit more, if they're too sour for you.

Yeah, the Kiowas are very thorny. They also spread very quickly. Of the six varieties I have, Kiowas have spread the most and put up the most new shoots, similar to running bamboo. If you want to cover an area quickly, they'd be great. But, I'd keep them away from anything you don't want them getting into. Did I mention they are very thorny? :)

From what I've read, the Kiowas are erect and self supporting. Do you maintain your plants this way or do you trellis them?