well, your two default choices are pretty tough to beat there, wc
really comes down to small frame SA vs larger frame DA
if it's main duty is going to be hiking, the small frame make sense, with ~4" barrel
but for a range gun, the 6" SA/DA is the more natural choice
me, the choice would be between a old model S&W 4" j-63 or an old model 6" S&W k-17
but neither is quite 100% optimal for both duties (probably why I own both)
and you may very well wind up with one of each as well, two different frame sizes that is
but I wouldn't wait on the new Ruger, there is no shortage of real nice Single-Sixes out there right now, if you decide to go SA
(and you could go with the convertible 22LR/22WMR version, you know)
PS
yeah I would love to have a rimfire SP101 too, but not for either purpose named
for me, it would be an ideal practice companion for my centerfire SP101
it's a tad heavy vs a j-frame for hiking trails, and a tad short for range day 'target' shooting
that sure is a beautiful k-18 there, though, CJ
on my real short list of revolvers I most admire, but alas do not own