I love the .38 snub. I carry a G19X at work. That's 17+1, with two 19 round reloads on my belt.
A .38 is more of a break contact gun, than a defensive firearm, but, in the right hands, miracles can and do happen.
I run Federal Train and Protect 158 gr LSWCHP standard pressure. It has an average penetration depth of about 14 inches, which is optimal, and does expand if it hits bone. I have a Taurus 856 UL CH, that cost me 250 dollars on sale at xmas.
S&W 5 shot revolvers are on sale right now for just over 400 dollars. You can pick up a Kimber for just over 500, that is a 6 shot. I've never heard anything bad about the RIA snub, but, IDK if a lot of people own them. There are mixed reviews on the Taurus. There are also mixed reviews on the S&W, the new Colt revolvers, and the Kimber has also had some fitment and firing pin issues.
I like the Taurus a lot. I have maybe 400 rounds through it, give or take. It's been reliable, but I don't play with it. For me, an ultralite is a much better buy in a snub than a steel frame, because you'll want to carry it.
If you haven't already purchased, try out gun.deals and see if you can get a decent price online. Get speedloaders for it. Speed strips are not that good for speed reloading. If it's a 6 shot snub, then the HKS 10A should fit it, but doublecheck it. Also, 5 star is good for metal reloaders.
Train with it at the range. Also, make certain it's heavily lubed up before you start snapping away with it. It normally takes a little while for everything to bed in and have it cycle correctly.