RE: conceal and carry pistol question
If you're looking for a sidearm for CCW, you're possibly looking for a semi-auto .45 ACP, 9 mm or caliber of your choice. There are a number of mfg. and models that'll fit the bill. Some of the lighter, synthetic and steel models like Glock, Springfield Arms XD and others are compact enough. But of course you can find smaller revolvers that'll work for you, too.
I've used both SA XD .45 4" and Ruger Redhawk DA .44 mag/spec. (4") for carrying.
Since you're in Buffalo, MN, consider stopping down to a gun shop like Bill's Gun shop in Robbinsdale and renting a couple different models to shoot on site and talking with several fellows there about their experiences.
Also, if you take the training for MN to carry, some trainers will let you use one of their pistols for the proficiency part of the class. If you want a name of a good trainer I know who is certified and teachs both the MN and Utah CCW classes in Rogers and near Brainerd, PM me and I'll give you his contact info.