How about a ruger sp101 in .357? Sounds like what you are after. Comes in 2,3,4 inch barrel varieties. I have a 3 and a 4. Probably would have stuck with the 3, but doesn't shoot point of aim, so I wanted adjustable sights found on 4" model.

In used revolvers, you have many choices, including some used police issue guns that still turn up in gun shops.
Assuming you really want a new revolver, here's the range:

S&W.
S&W offers a very wide range of revolvers in sizes from the small "J" frames, to the medium "L" frame, to the large "N" frame (Dirty Harry), to the new giant frame guns in monster calibers like the .500.
They offer a good many options in barrel lengths, material the guns are made from, and type of sights.
S&W makes the highest quality revolvers currently manufactured.
The number of holsters and accessories available for the S&W guns is unlimited. If a holster or accessory is made, it's offered for the S&W.
S&W designs are more refined, and offer better triggers and can be "tuned" to even better if desired.
Since the S&W used forged frames, the guns can be smaller and more compact.
S&W has a lifetime warranty.

Ruger.
Ruger is the "best buy" from a quality/price stand point.
They aren't as refined as the S&W designs and aren't up to S&W level of fit and finish, but they're an excellent owners gun that will last forever, like S&W. If you don't want to pay the price for a S&W but want a tank-like gun, Ruger is it.
Ruger's are slightly larger and heavier then corresponding S&W models.
Ruger also offers small, medium, large, and super large models in various barrel lengths and sight options.
Ruger doesn't offer as many models and variations as S&W.
Most Ruger revolvers are stainless steel, although they are now offering new small models with plastic grip frames that are getting rave reviews.
Like S&W, some of the Ruger's can be bought with laser sights fitted at the factory.
Ruger is the only DA revolver that can be field stripped like an automatic for cleaning. This makes maintenance easier then other brands.
The closest to what you want is the SP-101, which comes in a number of calibers and barrel lengths.
Ruger's warranty service is renowned for repairing even customer damaged guns, often for free.
There are a few fewer options in holsters and accessories available for the Ruger's but you can get most anything you want.

A good step down (or more in some opinions) is the Taurus.
Taurus is made in South America and while many people really like them, there is a much higher history of owners having quality problems.
Again, Taurus offer a wide variety of sizes, calibers, materials, barrel lengths, and sights.
Like S&W, and I think Ruger, Taurus has a lifetime warranty, although some owners have had issues getting Taurus to honor it.
If you think there's a chance of losing or damaging the gun, as in losing it in the woods or having it stolen from a vehicle, Taurus might be the better option due to the lower price.
Taurus make a good serviceable gun but the quality isn't up to Ruger, much less S&W levels. They are not junk, and do cost less then Ruger.

What I recommend is getting on the S&W, Ruger, and Taurus web sites and look at what they offer. All three offer a large catalog of DA revolvers that will meet just about any possible need.
After looking them over, visit some gun shops and handle some that you think you might like.

I was looking into J-Frames and I'm definitely very interested, but that caught my eye. What are advantages/disadvantages to shrouded/internal/external?

S&W 442 / 642

S&W model 60-7 38 +P no mim no lock great trigger heat treated cylinder everything you need nothing you don't .

I would personallly recommend a 3" k frame in .357 or .38. The triggers on k frames will be much better than a j, you have one extra round and the k's are much more pleasant to shoot. I have a 10, 64, 65, and 66 with the 3" barrel option and they're hands down my favorite revolvers. Best part is that e used ones routinely turn up for decent prices of you're willing to look. The 3" model 10 I picked up recently was less than the new bargain priced s&w j frames...

All that said, if it's your first revolver, consider one of the model 10 police trades from buds. The model 10 is an outstanding revolver and a very good entry option for learning the ins and outs before proceeding to the j frames (which definitely take more practice to shoot well when compared to a k frame)

Either way, good luck as wheel gun disease is just S contagious as brd...

If you want a CCW piece for town, then look into the S&W J-frame snubbies. Also check the used gun market for a Colt Detective Special.

If you want a larger gun for woods carry, then go with a .44 caliber revolver. S&W Model 21, 24, and 29 come to mind here.

I've got a Bodyguard .38 (the new one w/ laser) and my gf has the 638 with the shrouded hammer. I like both for different reasons. The bodyguard won't take standard j frame grips or fit in most standard j-frame holsters due to the laser, but it does have a full length ejector rod which is nice. The 638 is definately the better looking IMO and has a better trigger.