1)I will select either a 4-inch or a 6-inch Ruger Security-Six or an 4-inch Security-Six or a 7.5-inch Redhawk .357. Why? Because I know just how good these guns really are and how much tougher they are than most of the more popular name Brand revolvers! Also, because of their unique modular design and quick and easy takedown that facilitates easy cleaning and reassembly in the field-which comes in mighty handy in the event you should drop these guns in a stream and need to quickly get the gun cleaned up to enable you to continue using these guns without being put out of commission due to gun failure, and the need for a Gunsmith before you could use your guns again(Like in the case of an S&W, Colt, etc.!)! Although it is true that the trigger on both the older S&W and Colt revolvers are superior to these Ruger revolvers, it is also true, that in time, the triggers on these Rugers will improve significantly with continued usage! A spring kit will help immensely also!
2)I also own several S&W and Colt revolvers. However, I must disagree that an Ruger Security or Speed-six is an uglier gun than an S&W! To me, although I like my S&W model 64 & 65, I think that the Speed-Six is a better looking gun! This is not to say that the Model 64 and 65's are ugly-just that they are not prettier IMHO, than is the Speed-Six! Keep in mind, that there are alot of S&W and Colt revolvers that are in fact, ugly-but, most folks turn a blind eye to this ugliness in view of their bias towards their favorite Brand of guns or otherwise, because a certain gun is very popular with the masses(Despite this ugliness!)! Looks is always in the eye of the beholder-and, this is why there are so many different styles of guns on the market!