I'm looking into buying my first handgun and I think I'd like to pick up something similar to what I first learned on, a 4" medium frame Smith and Wesson revolver. However, money's a little tight, so I'm trying to maximize value without sacrificing quality. So, I'm trying to decide if I should get a .357 or save some money and get a .38 spl like someone suggested in a different thread (I started a new thread since I didn't want to hijack that one).
This would be used for plinking and home defense--no hunting or concealed carrying or anything like that. It's also something I'd like to share with my girlfriend, who has slightly smaller hands but who can handle a .357 round. I figure it's only a matter of time before I start shopping for a new gun so I'm not too worried about getting the perfect gun right off the bat
. And finally, I'd like to spend around $300--less is great if I can, more is ok if I must.
So what do you think? Is the .38 the best way to go? Would I be better off spending more on a .357 and trying to save money by firing .38 ammo through it? Forget the whole thing and get a Glock?