I'm primarily giving this response because you said "revolver". If you are a fan of engineering, the biggest thing since sliced bread in the Revolver world is the Chiappa Rhino's re-design. The lightweight, reduced mass, under-barrel design of the Rhino completely re-imagines the recoil and accuracy of a traditional .357 Magnum. You can get a 3" snub nose, or all the way to a 6" barrel. Factory picatinny for any lights/red dots you may prefer. Biggest benefit is you can load 38 Special which has practically zero recoil to learn the weapon. I would point any beginner to a 2" Rhino and have them learn shooting 38 Special. Long story short, go to a gun range and rent various different guns in various different calibers to find what is right for you. The designs vary wildly for different ergonomics and strength levels. A revolver might be right for you, and some people will never shoot less than .45 ACP in a pistol, but just view the problem as one where your unique set of criteria determines what you will be most effective with. I have many firearms, and the Chiappa Rhino 60DS loaded with .357 Magnum in a shoulder holster is my "bear killer" of choice when hunting.