New S&W's can be pretty pricey but I like them a lot(don't own any yet). Go for a .357mag K or L-frame like the Model 686 so that the heft can soak up the recoil. You'll be able to shoot .38 special & .357 magnum. You can find .38 special for about $15 or so a box. Try to find it used so you don't have to pay so much. (Might want to check out the Ruger .357's as well...Don't know if I'm allowed to say that on this forum lol).