Handgun Selection for Novice

Question
Dave,
While I have some experience with rifles, I have none with handguns.  I ride horses in the backcountry of Wyoming, and need a gun for possible horse euthanasia (had a bad experience last June), as well as protection from an increasing number of wolves in the area.  There are so many choices, I am a bit confused.

So far, I have it narrowed down to the following:
--- Ruger due to cost, S&W is just too expensive
--- minimum of 357 magnum, minimum needed for horse euthanasia
--- minimum 4 inch barrel, for better accuracy at distance
--- double action revolver, understand this is better for a novice
--- weight in the 40-45 ounce range.  Lighter weight Ruger LCR would have too much recoil, and not enough accuracy at distance

I have had experts recommend specific guns, but they recommend from their perspective...looking for heavy weight 45s that look like small cannons....great for pulling off many rounds in a target range, but not practical for trail riding and actually hitting a charging wolf.

Can you provide any guidance here?  I know that practice will be key, and do intend on taking the concealed weapons class, but there are just so many choices!!!

Thanks
BB

Answer
For your stated purpose, it sounds like you are making a good choice with a Ruger single/double action revolver in .357 magnum with minimum 4" barrel.  If you are not worried about concealment, you could go with a 6" barrel.  Make sure to get one that has adjustable sights so you can practice and develop skill and accuracy.  For practice, you can use .38 special cartridges in a .357 magnum revolver for less recoil when shooting a lot. The stainless steel versions are nice if you will be out in the weather often (won't rust).

Rather than me recommending a specific model, it is best if you visit a gunshop that has a shooting range, and try shooting the models that you are considering. Also check out the holsters that you might use.

Hope this helps!

Dave