For home defense a K frame or L frame revolver make great choices and are great range choices.

If carry is the idea... J frames take almost a religious conversion to master. Accuracy takes alot of rounds. Shooting Airweights are uncomfortable for many. A Model 60, 640, or 649 would be my choice for a dual purpose role.

If you go the revolver route I would buy both a K frame and J frame. A 4 inch K frame for the range. A Jframe for occasional range time and carry.

I wouldn't look much beyond a Glock 26 or Glock 27 in the auto. Great all around Home defense/carry.

Another thing not to overlook is the expense of ammunition and training. I shoot at least a hundred rounds almost every trip with my Model 17. 1000's of rounds on a .22 caliber revolver will do wonders for trigger control and accuarcy.