ORIGINAL: Aught Six
By the way, I would recommend a 6" barrel. The 4" is great for concealed carry and home use, but I'd want the extra velocity and accuracy of a longer barrel out in the wilderness.
I agree with Aught Six. For hunting I prefer the longer barrels.I would go with the minimum of a 41mag for hunting.Preferably the 44 mag or 454 Casull. Then again it might be to much for your wife to handle.The 357 for self defense and home protection is hard to beat.
Ruger Redhawk