Thanks Goose. Yes, San Antonio, and Texas in general, is a great place to live and raise a family. I've spent the last 40+ years here, and have travelled all over the United States. 9 more years to retirement, and I'm headed north to either Wyoming or Montana. I kind of like winter, and we just don't really have much of one down here.
I've always been partial to S&W j-frames. My first off-duty weapon was a bone stock model 60, and I love it death. It doesn't get carried anymore, but I occasionally shoot it with old lead semi-wadcutters just for fun. My duty weapon is concealed Sig P229 DAK in .357. I've been carrying Sigs and S&W j-frames so long, that both are very comfortable to me.
I've developed so much confidence in my ability to shoot these little 5-shot revolvers, that I don't feel very handicapped with the limited ammo capacity. I always keep a pair of Bianchi Speed Strips in my right front pocket, so I've always got access to 17 rounds of .357 Magnum at my disposal. It pays big dividends to never load by hand at the range. I always reload my 640 with the speed strips, even after cleaning. That way, in a gunfight, you will revert back to what you know. Amazing how your fingers turn to nubs and your brain to mush when the proverbial "defication hit's the Westinghouse".
Good luck on your S&W Academy Course. S&W Academy has been around a long time, and they take a lot of pride in the quality of instruction that they provide. Please be sure to share your experience with us after you return.
Take care and be safe!