I retired since I posted in this thread.
Since then my most common choice for a retirement CCW weapon has remained one or another J-frame loaded with .38 Spl +P.
I still occasionally carry one of my small 9mm or .40 S&W pistols, depending on my activities and travel, but the J-frames are still the more frequent choice.
I shoot my various 9's, .40's& .45's quite a bit when it comes to sheer numbers of rounds, but my .38's get their fair share of training & practice time (since I've kept my hand in some activities as an instructor).
Handy little gun, the J-frame.
Matter of fact, I'm planning to pick up another one in the near future, probably a M40 in nickel since I don't have a nickle steel J-frame anymore.
I also wouldn't mind picking up a 638 some time, either, as I rather like my older stainless bodyguard and would like to have an Airweight version of it.
I want to get a M&P 45c to complement my full-size M&P 45 first, though ...