If not hunting, and only one rifle, you seem to be looking for an all around tool. My second best suggestion is a short barrel 357 mag in a lever action. This will allow you to fire loads from Buffalo Bore heavy 357 mag down to cat sneeze (quiet) loads of 38 special. Best suggestion is a TALO Handirifle in 357 mag selling at Davidsons right now for $253 replacement guaranteed for life through your local dealer. Get on the reamer list at GBO and ream that rifle out to 357 maximum. This should not affect accuracy for 38 special or 357 mag but brings a whole new dimension to this gun. (you are going to want good peep sights to go with it) From beer cans, to jackrabbits, to snake shot, to knocking down a 200 pound hog, this set up will do a lot. It is a break open single shot, tough as a boot and a side saddle stock will carry up to six different rounds with another in the chamber. Weight under 7 pounds, barrel 18.75", overall length about (?)36 inches. Fun, just about the most you can have with your clothes on.
Just an old man's suggeation,
blindhari