OP, the difference in felt recoil between typical 38 special and 357 magnum loads is huge. If that is a big concern, stay away from the magum. If you are looking at snubnoses, you are probably motivated by concealability anyway. A 357 magnum revolver needs a significantly heavier build than a 38. The wheel will also be longer to accommodate the lengthier magnum cartridges. FWIW