The best one?
One that's already paid for!
But, since you asked . . .
3.5" or 5" barreled M27 for classic beauty and detail
3" M13 for carry
4" M19 for fun
But don't stop there . . .
You'll eventually have to go bright nickle too for beauty . . . and stainless versions too for utility/workhorse use.
S&W wheelguns are addictive.
Colt? Colt?
Isn't that a company that once made double action revolvers, but couldn't compete?
They ARE fine guns (especially the Pythons) but I don't like the way Colt actions 'stack' just before they fire. Make mine a buttery smooth and crisp S&W trigger pull! In the end, practical accuracy comes from the best trigger pulls . . . and no one beats S&W double action trigger pulls.
THE DEAL BREAKER . . .
Colt doesn't support parts, or work on their double action revolvers anymore and rare indeed are the gunsmiths anymore who know a thing about the complex workings of a Colt double action revolver. If you can find someone to work on your gun today who won't screw it up look out . . . they'll be buried in work and also charge you an arm in a leg to try to keep your Colt running.
T.