Look at the Taurus 85 in either SS, Blue, or Ultralite in SS. Many Taurus bashers out there. Kind of like the Harley Davidson riders who dress in black and wear do-rags and HD t-shirts all the time. They can't explain why they love a bike that is less dependable cost more than a reliable import. "If you have to ask, you don't understand" is their tag-line. Its not cool to dis the American product, but its okay to dis the import. I own Rugers, Taurus, Bersa, and my wife has a Glock. All have been great, though I do not personally care for the Glock. No problems, just not me.
BTW, I love Harleys, Hondas, and Kaws. But I do not have to wear a black HD shirt and a do-rag everywhere. I love the Harley (especially the Sportster series) BECAUSE they are the great American motorcycle, but any honest HD fan has to admit the "rice burners" are more reliable. That's the best analogy I can come up with.
In any case, do not overlook the Taurus, budget or not.
.38Catt