My recommendation for a "best all-around" handgun would be some form of stainless-steel four-inch-barreled .357 Magnum revolver. Being partial to S&W's[now,guys...hold down the noise!], I'd suggest either a Model 66[K-frame] OR a Model 686[L-frame...larger and more durable than K-frame]. My PERSONAL choice would be a four-inch Model 686...now, do I want the standard six-shooter OR the seven-shot 686 "Plus"??? AAHHHH, decisions, decisions....mikey357