I voted for the LCR 38. Then save up for an LCR 22 to go with it.
I have a 638, an LCR 357 and an LCR 22. I like them all. I also have a 2-1/2" 66 that is not bad either.
I have Lobo Pancakes for everyone for belt carry, plus a Nemisis and a JR Roo pocket holster. The Jr Roo is a new one I got from Tuff Products the makers of the Quick Strips. I like it better than the Nemisis, the Jr Roo stays open enough to reholster with it still in my jacket pocket.
The LCR 38 has a weight advantage over the LCR 357 for pocket carry. As I already had the 638, I went for a little more horse power and weight with the LCR 357. I like the LCR 357, and I really like the LCR 22 for an economical training and practice J Frame size handgun. Light to pack when running around, and you do not feel you need a real gun. Like checking our deer feeders and filling them yesterday, repaired a gate latch, and made a run to the store for a loaf of bread, and $33 worth of groceries not on my list. Normally I would have swapped to a bigger gun going to town, but I did not yesterday.
If I were to get a 442, I would get the 442 Pro factory cut for moon clips, without the lock. I could really get to liking one of them. I may need to look for a home for my 638, and replace it with one infact.
Smith & Wesson or Ruger, both great choices.
Bob