686 is stainless as noted and sounds like a great choice. There is also the 586, which you can find in nickel. Likewise there is also the Model 13's, K-Frames with fixed sights that can be found in nickel as well, in photo #1. Secondly is the Model 66, in this case a 66-1. I understand your concern for keeping Dad's Model 19 in great shape. So I would personally go with the 66. AND shoot 158 grain bullets with little to no worry. Also, for standard range work I shoot mostly .38 Specials in the 158 grain. I sent a PM to you as well on this.