The Model 10 was made in both a "standard" and "heavy" 3 inch barrel in 38 Special. This started with the 10-5 and continued with the 10-7. Most were sent overseas for foreign police forces. Hope this helps.
I was looking for a nice S&W steel frame 2-3 inch, however also saw the Ruger SP 101.also for my wife. I like the look and feel of the stainless steel. I have reservations about the light weight frames from S&W. Any suggestions ? A lot like the light weight 638.
The model 65 is my favorite because of its feel and the fact it has the fixed sights. Here are 2 of mine, one is a 65-5 with a factory bead blast finish and tuned by S&W.
The other is a 65-2 with the recessed cylinders and pinned barrel. These guns can be had at good prices, and are a joy to shoot. Mine only see .38 special loads. No magnum for these babies.
augy
The Model 547 9mm came in a heavy three inch barrel also. Clockwise from the top, Colt Diamondback, Model 547, Model 64-3, Model 66-3, Model 66 2 1/2 inch, Model 66-3, Model 65-3, and a Model 13-2.
3" model 66s came with standard barrels from 1985 to about 2000, then with the 66-5 the barrels became heavy or 'bull' up through the model 66-6.
Here is a link to my thread on model 66s.