Wingingit
Non-Essential
I would highly suggest a Smith and Wesson 686 with a 6in barrel. It comes and can handle .357 or 38 special
That too is pricey. Ruger makes a knock off on it and the model escapes me but it is more reasonable on the price scale. Do you have a range in mind for how much you want to spend? Do you care if it is a Auto or Revolver?
Smiths are higher priced than the Rugers, generally 600 bucks more, plenty of friends of mine have been using Rugers for years without issue. The Ruger Super Blackhawk in .357 - .38 special (6.5 inch barrel) is a pretty reasonable choice. Around $750.
.38 special for target shooting, Move up to the .357 for defense or deer hunting, for a challenge.
Been researsh around for a couple of months now trying to decide what I want (and waiting for my bonus check), planning on heading out next weekend to purchase. I'm going with a larger frame, Ruger Hunter in .44 magnum, both for deer hunting and the greater concern, where I've been deer hunting is bear and (yes) cougars.