I like the little .38sp. Always have. It's a bit anemic but it gets the job done when up close and personal work is needed. My wife carries the little Lady Smith in .38sp and she is danged accurate with that little bugger. 25 feet and in (actual self defense range) there wouldn't be a live attacker with her that much I would bet on.

I worked up a load for her using 5.5gr Unique under a 110gr XTP which chrony's an average of 1005fps. Her little revolver didn't like Power Pistol at all. Your results may vary. I personally think it has more than enough power to take out a bad guy if needed. The right bullet put in the right place will equal a problem solved.