The smallest I've shot is the Taurus 441 (?) the fixed-sighted version. As mentioned, it's a bit snappy with full-house loads. The Rossi 720 was offered with a three-inch lugged barrel, and basically equates to a K-frame S&W. It is noticeably smaller and lighter than a S&W 696.

4" M-64, 3" M-65, 3" Rossi 720