If you go the revolver route, I recommend getting a quality revolver in .22LR first and start shooting with the .22LR before the .357 Mag (or .38 Special ammo). If you shoot like you should, you will eventually pay for the .22LR with the ammo savings. For a .357 Mag 4" barrel revolver, look at the Ruger GP100. It is built like a tank, dependable and accurate. I suggest 4" to 5" barrels for a house gun (6" barrel does not swing as quickly and is more muzzle heavy).