Given your parameters, I'd choose the 3" 60 hands down. I have one, and they are quite managable as has already been pointed out. You can continue to carry it over the 327 when you do go into country that may have bear or cougar, and be adequately covered if you use Buffalo Bore 180's.

This is a link to their site, and the ammo I am referring to-

Heavy 357 Magnum Pistol & Handgun Ammunition