[redlevel42]

Model 19 S&W, preferably pinned and recessed, 4" barrel. The availability of .38 special brass and 148 grain wadcutters almost makes a .22 rimfire for plinking redundant. Full house .357 loads will handle everything except the big bears. My mid-range (hotter than .38 sp +p, but lighter than full house .357) loads are more than adequate for self defense. Much smaller, handier, easier to carry package. Ammo less bulky. Unsurpassed quality in a production revolver. There are reasons the Combat Magnum is one of the most popular revolvers ever produced. Versatility is one of those reasons.