I wanted one long enough... finally got it. Personal protection or plinking, it's appropriate/fun. A bit much to CC, however.
Ultimately, I bought two... since they are now similarly gripped, one could think they were seeing double...
I wouldn't cheat... and keep 'em both... no, not me!
Of course, if the reason for the 'one only' was ammo cost, I'd keep a .22 rimfire. I know some say they can reload .38's for what a .22 rimfire costs, but I do believe they are being disingenuous. At current prices, ~$30/1k, primers alone cost more than the least expensive brick ammo at WallyWorld ($16/550). Of course, you need more than primers, so I'd likely consider a rimfire - like my 4" 617, especially if range use was the main consideration. My 3" 63 would be decent, too - probably could be CC-ed, as well. My recent find, a 4" 651 (.22 WMR), might work with .22 LR's as is - I haven't tried them - or have an older x6 63 cylinder fitted as a choice. The added power of the new short-barrel .22 WMR ammo, like the Hornady FTX 45gr-ers, would be comforting.
I hate these one only choices. I CC because it may save my life - or my wife's. I plink because it's fun. Then, what if I had to feed myself? The prospect of becoming a vegan isn't exactly mouth watering!
Stainz