I like the Ruger SP101 with 2.25 inch barrel. Great for OWB wear and soaks up recoil of Buffalo Bore and Underwood 38 Spl +P loads.

...and nothing shabby about the S&W 642 J frame...it’s double action smoothness can’t be beat. Put some Altamont Falconia grips on it coupled with Speer 38 Spl +P 135 gr Gold Dots and you have all you really need for self protection.