When I'm in a gunshop, I don't even give the Ruger a second glance . . . I'm looking for a good, vintage S&W.
1. The steel framed ones are easiest to "plink" with due to the extra weight.
2. The Scandium framed ones (AirLite) are lightest to tote BUT
3. The ALUMINUM framed (Airweight) versions are also light without being brutal, so in self defense you've got speed of draw, light weight for reduced "J-frame Jiggle" in pocket carry PLUS just enough weight to make them fast, fun AND easy to shoot.
HANDS DOWN AN AIRWEIGHT FOR LIGHT, ACCURATE SELF DEFENSE.
To Hammer, or Not To Hammer, that is the question . . .
It truly doesn't matter to me, I like 'em all and with the proper holsters, the hammer spur has never snagged on me in many years of toting and practice.
MY SELF DEFENSE J-FRAMES . . .
1. Steel frame for belt or IWB carry . . . Model 36
2. Airweight (aluminum frame) for light, "always on you carry . . . its identical but lighter brother, the Model 37.
3. AirLite? Wouldn't own one, never recommend one. Too danged light so it promotes barrel rifling torque which can slightly twist your gun out of perfect alignment in your grip . . . imperceptible but you are no longer hitting accurately. Plus, some specific bullets in that ultra-light revolver can "jump the crimp" and potentially lock up the gun! If I were dictator of the entire world I'd ban 'em for the novice shooter . . . and experienced shooters rarely would buy one for all the reasons I've listed above.
Accuracy? Standing, unsupported @ ten yards? All five rounds within an inch; at 25 yards typically all five rounds inside of 2 1/2 inch. Snubbies CAN be accurate but sight alignment, grip and technique are more critical to be ultra consistent vs. longer barreled models!
Good luck!!!
PS: My "ALWAYS ON ME" Model 37 Airweight . . .
BTW, I carried my Model 36 and thought it was great for pocket carry . . . UNTIL I got to carry and Airweight. I instantly understood the benefits of a gun light enough not to notice and heavy enough to tame just enough of the recoil!