Rossi 462 is a great revolver for the money. Ruger sp101 great choice, as is the S&W m686 (6 or 7 shot), model 649 shrouded (DA/SA), or model 640 3" or hammerless version. Airweights are not fun to shoot (I own a Smith 442 and LCR 38). The key to shooting revolvers well is practice, practice, practice. Stay with a little more weight to assure fun practice and more consistent follow-up shots. Having the option of 357 mag is OK, but the increase in performance over a 38 Special+P with a 2" barrel is minimal (try the Gold Dot 38 +P for short barrel revolvers). At night, excessive flare from the 2" barrel of a magnum discharge may be a problem. In an enclosed area - as car jacking situation or indoor room or hallway, the pressure of the magnum discharge could result in some hearing loss or damage to the inner ear. Stay with a high quality Manufacturer, pay a little more, and buy your snubby only once. The S&W 640 hammerless (357 stainless) is a great compromise between concealability and shootability. I only carry 357 180 gr magnums in my S&W m28 6" for animal protection when travelling in bear country. Practicing with 38 special is ok, but if you carry magnums practice with them in volume. If you are used to "mild" practice rounds, the increased recoil of magnums could be disconcerting in a sudden defensive situation. Practice heavily with your carry ammo!
