Welcome from Upstate NY.

I have a 4.2" Ruger SP101 in .357. It's a great gun. Well balanced and an easy shooter. It would definitely work well as a HD. Downside is that it is only a 5 shot. In used guns, the Ruger Security Six is IMHO, among the best designed pistols. I have a 4" (.357) stainless model. It is my "go to" revolver for hiking. I also have a S&W Model 10-5. It's chambered in 38 special. A .38s+P round would be a very effective bedside defensive round.The .357 guns will also shoot .38s.

As to cost. I bought the SP101 new and paid new gun pricing. I bought the Sec Six used (1978 model) in 95+% condition for $ 300 out the door (a steal) and the Model 10-5 (90+%) was right at 400 bucks. There is no reason to pay $1k for a home defense revolver. You can easily get by for half that cost and put the balance into ammo, range time and a nice dinner with your wife.

Good luck and let us know how you make out dm.

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paws for friendship