Hi,
You didn't mention how you planned to conceal it . . . and this makes a big difference as to how big a revolver you can use.
Weight of the gun is also a big issue . . . and the larger and heavier the gun is . . . the less times you'll have it on you, and visa versa. It is better to have a tiny J-frame on you, when you need it, than a big gun that you decided not to wear that day!
1. My "all the time" CCW revolver is a lightweight J frame (any will do but mine happens to be a Model 37 "Airweight." At 15 oz., I can slide it in my front pants pocket (in a pocket holster of course) and carry it anywhere I can legally go with it, no problem of being "made." It is so light and comfortable that I can wear it all day long, and do! Before I got the Airweight, I used a steel J frame for this purpose and was AMAZED by the difference later!!!
2. When I CAN wear a coat, like dining downtown last Friday night (with a rough area nearby), I upgraded to a steel Model 36 J-frame in my favorite belt holster, a Mitch Rosen. You literally forget it is even there! Many times though, in this type scenario I use my 3" barreled Kimber .45 Auto with nightsights, again, in a good belt holster.
2. The "snubbie" K frames are really nice, but they are twice the weight and a lot bulkier to carry, so they can't always go where the little J can. However, in a good belt holster . . . WITH a quality gun belt (vs. a regular leather belt), a K can be carried quite comfortably . . . WHEN YOU ARE WEARING A JACKET OR LOOSE, UNTUCKED SHIRT.
My favorite is a 3" Model 65 S&W, and I also have a 2 1/2" Model 19 . . . both accurate .357s. The Model 65 got me out of a jam one night. Luckily, I had it on me!!!
Inside the Waist holsters are also suitable but many people (including me) HATE 'em . . . plus you have to wear pants a couple of sizes big when you strap it on.
3. In winter, I sometimes carry a big N frame revolver, a chopped barrel (to just 3 1/4") Model 25-2 in .45 ACP. A good belt holster and belt is the ticket . . . although I also have a shoulder holster for it I sometimes use also. It is my favorite defensive handgun of any type, but frankly, usually I've got the Airweight J frame in the pocket already when I add a belt holster.
Bottom line . . . get an Airweight Smith J frame and practice like heck. These little guns can be amazingly accurate with practice and good technique and, like a good dog, that "puppy" is ALWAYS with you!
Frankly, if I have time . . . I'm reaching for the shotgun or the AR-15 anyway!