Good choice, MJRW - - -
A man won't go wrong with a good .357, for many purposes. And there are so MANY good examples out there!
Just an observation - - - The .357 Magnum made its reputation as a sort of super-over pressure .38 Special, using lots of slower-burning powder behind medium weight bullets, in longer barrels. it is still very good in a four-inch. While gathering up additional .357 revolvers, keep an eye out for for a five-inch, such as the fine old S&W M27, or any of the quality six-inch guns. This is a whole new world compared to the shorter tubes! Discernible gains in velocity with the extra length. Great sport in plinking at long range rocks, clods, and other targets of opportunity.
The REAL rep builders for the .357 back in the 1930s, of course, were the 8-3/8 barrelled S&Ws and the 7-1/2 inch Colts. I was never able to become fond of such long tubes, myself.
If you roll your own ammo, there's always some activity over in Handloading & Reloading area concerning various formulae. Main trick is to second source suggested loads, and to work up slowly!
I sure hope you enjoy your association with this excellent cartridge as much as I have my own.
Johnny