A big welcome to the forum, we're glad you are here. Based on what you said in your post, my advice would be to seek a Md. 64 with 2 inch barrel. It's a 6 shot K frame in stainless steel, with fixed sights and great accuracy (with practice). Other options might be a Model 15 or Model 12 with 2 inch barrels. All of the above are chambered for 38 special. Good luck.

I'm editing to add that if I found the right gun for what I want and need the lock would NOT be an issue.

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