Doc, which model are you considering? J or K/L frame? In either case, a good set of grips that fit YOUR hands are a big part of wringing every bit of accuracy and comfort out of the gun.
As to barrels, I always prefer the longer 3" models, and with adjustable sights too. The longer barrel conceals every bit as well as the shorter tubes and gives you just that little bit of extra sighting precision. The only drawback to a 3" bbl. may be the availability of good holster selections, however. You'll have to check it out, as I've not bought a holster in years, (make my own), so that might be a consideration. Nevertheless, better sights always allow you to zero the gun to your liking and are more than strong enough for any sensible use you'd consider.
Conversely, my wife has a Model 637, with fixed sights and a 1-7/8" bbl. and the gun shoots to POA with her hold. It does sport a good set of Crimson Trace grips that give her good purchase, even with full +P defensive loads, and she has no problem getting good POA hits out to yds or so. BTW, her carry loads are +P 125 grain JHP's, and she practices with handloads loaded to the same recoil level.
My Model 60 (J frame) has a 3" bbl. & adjustable sights as I shoot a variety of loads through it, from 125 gr JHP's to 170 gr LSWC's. And too, the longer ejection rod, with the better sights and a good set of grips allow me to shoot accurately well beyond "snubby" distances. With a good hold and light enough to see the sights, I can get 3" groups with my 3" Model 60 at 25 yds. It makes for a pretty good, light caliber, trail gun in fact.
Just a word about holsters: for over 40 years I have used an OWB holster for carry no matter what handgun I've carryied, finding that an IWB just too limiting. So for years, I built, recommended, and carried my guns in a version of the old Tom Threepersons open top Border Patrol type of leather. (El Paso Saddlery has made the best of that design for 100 years if you're looking for one.)
But recently, I bought a Browning Hi-Power that came with Bianchi's version of the Askins Avenger holster that I quickly found worked out even better than my old open tops. The secret is the additional slot for the belt that really pulls the grip portion of the gun in close to the body, resulting in a far less noticeable 'print'. It's so good, in my opinion, that I've built up three of them for my carry guns: two auto's and the Model 60 Smith previously mentioned. It's by far a better 'concealer' and does not hinder nor slow down my draw presentation. It's worth checking out, believe me.
HTH's Rod