For all those suggesting 5-shot J Frames, I appreciate your input, but is that really the gun you want for a gunfight? It's a serious question, not a criticism. Size and weight aren't going to be the deal breaker here for me (within reason--I'm probably not going to opt for an N Frame with a 8 3/8" barrel).
If somebody was waiting for me in the parking lot and the fight was on, I'm thinking I'd want a real rear sight--not just a notch, and bit more grip than the typical 2 finger. How much sight radius would you want? I'm talking in terms of fighting back against a determined attacker.
Well:
1.) Since size isn't a concern for you (up to a point)
2.) Since you seem to be leaning towards this scenario being somewhat likely for you (as opposed to a lot of us who don't, and thus we lean towards a lightweight 5 shot revolver, just in case)
3.) And since I personally like the feel of a S&W action...
I believe if I were in your shoes, I'd give some strong consideration to the 7 shot S&W 686 for the extra round- like the poster a few slots above me suggested.
