Hey, I don't feel belittled
I'm new to the revolver world and until recently wasn't even sure what made one stronger than another. I'm glad for all the advice!
The .357 Redhawks are more common than some believe, and they aren't that expensive ($400-600 as i have seen, looking at auctions that have ended in the last two years). Finding one would just be a matter of scouring various forums and posting WTB ads, I imagine. However, the weight might be an issue.
The Dan Wessons are very nice, definitely still an option.
The Smith and Wessons are seeming very appealing. I looked at the model 28 6 inch, and it seems like one of these could be perfect. Not sure what the weight on the 27/28s are for that barrel length (If someone did that would be much appreciated), but it will undoubtedly be less than the Ruger. Love the looks of the Smiths too.
I'm not entirely sure the weight of the ruger would be in issue, in all honesty. Its big and heavy, but 3.5 pounds doesn't seem bad. I'd be interested to know the weight of the smith in relation to the Ruger.