I have a Torus stainless steal hammerless .38 special that works like a dream. I've had it for over a decade as my back up peice and it's never failed to cycle to fire a round. Small but has some weight if you need to use it on someone's head. I would recommend.

Air weight has a ridiculous 14 lb trigger. Ruger makes a nice one. I have a Colt Agent that I bought in '83.

Charter Arms has some great models.

I carry a S&W Airweight Model 638. I like the shrouded hammer, makes it less likely to get tangled in your pocket. It has a heavy trigger pull, but with plenty of practice it is not a problem. I had to add a little contrast to the sights to make it easier to aim in the dark. It’s very reliable, safe and easy to use.

I have the Ruger LCR. It's +P rated and very light weight. I put concealment grips on it to avoid "printing" as much as possible. It's hard to be very accurate at distance, but I figure if I ever need it I will probably be within "spitting distance" anyway. I carry it every day.

If you are only ever going to shoot 38 specials, then most of what has been mentioned will work great. I suggest getting a 357 magnum snubby if possible though. They fire 38 perfectly, you gain the ability to use a more powerful round in the same gun, and the little bit of extra weight makes 38 special feel like a 22lr.

Ruger double action. They're all a little poppy in the hand, though. Be advised.

Check out the S&W .40 with the LE modified trigger.

S&W 681, I like the size and holster options it alsi fires snake shot very nicely

which ever one you can afford.