Sounds like your priorities tend toward more defensive capability over absolute lightest weight and concealability.
A 6 shot .38 Special with a barrel length between 2 1/2 to 4 inches is the sweet spot. Several fit the bill - Smith Model 10, 64, 15 or 65 - 4" is the standard in each of those and are easy to find. To reduce size for concealment a round butt with a BK grip adapter might be helpful. A .357 K-frame would work just as well but I'd still carry .38 or .38 +P level loads if it was 2 1/2" or 3". The slight velocity gain isn't worth the cost in recoil which makes repeat shots more difficult.
A good Ruger Security or Speed Six with 2 3/4" or 4" barrel shouldn't be overlooked as well.
Gunnery, gunnery, gunnery. Hit the target, all else is twaddle!
