With the proper handloads, I can imagine that even the Enfield break-top and H&R break-top models would aquit themselves well. Properly placed, the .38 S&W must have been moderately effective, or it would not have remained in S&W and H&R's production lineup into the 1960's.

While I would prefer to use my Charter Arms "Undercoverette" (in .32 H&R Magnum) to fill this role, I believe that the .38 S&W would perform as well as a properly loaded .380.

Scott