imported post
I posted the question on another forum and they steered toward the Ruger GP100 and also recommended the S&W 686. Looks like there are a fair amount of either model on GunBroker.
I'll have to get into a gun store and see how they feel in my hand or possibly rent one at a range.
EDIT:
====RANGE REPORT====
So I decided to head down to the range to try out a few revolvers.
First I tried a Ruger SP101 in .38 Special since they didn't have GP100 to try. The SP101 had a 2" Barrel with a spurless hammer and looked fairly similar to the one below. The one I shot had a matte finish and was chambered in .38 with a molded grip. Felt good in my hand and I shot fairly well with it.
Next I tried a S&W 686 with a 4" barrel and shot .357 Mag. Now that's was a manly gun! Nice and heavy. You can totally tell the difference between .357 and .38. Surprising what a few tenths of an inch of case length can make. I liked the sights better on the 686.
Trigger wise I couldn't tell much difference between the Ruger and SW triggers but my revolver experience consists of the 100 rounds I just fired. I would assume that both revolvers triggers were well worn in since they were range guns.
Afterwards I looked at the 4" GP100 and dry fired it a few times, still couldn't tell much of a difference from one trigger to the next. As far as weight wise and hand fit I couldn't tell much difference between the GP100 and S&W 686. I did like the grips on the GP100 better. I guess I don't care much for the finger molded grips.
So I determined the following:
1. If I ever want the Mrs. to shoot it, I'll have to get a smaller frame revolver like a S&W J Frame or maybe the SP101. No way she'll handle K Frame / L Frame sized revolver more than once. Either that or get a small .22 revolver just for her.
2. Quality wise I couldn't tell a difference between Ruger and S&W.
3. I want a revolver with a hammer so I can shoot SA.
More research....:?