What is the smallest 357 magnum revolver you would voluntarily carry for self defense...?

You know I am like you. I love the .357mag, love at least a 4in barrel, don't mind the recoil, but don't want something bulky. The Ruger SP101 .357mag with 3 1/16 barrel is as close as it gets for me. I don't mind that it is a 5 shot but why can't they just make the barrel 4in. I see a .357mag snubbie as a 9mm. It irritates me so bad but I'll still get the SP101. What makes the .357mag famous is its velocity, why go lower.