is there a place online that sells pistols that I could get an idea on what prices might be

 

I don't think a .38 will get it done. A .357 mag or a .41 mag would be nice.

This place might give you an idea.

GunBroker.com Online Gun Auction

 

If you go the .357 route you can also use the cheaper 38 special rounds for practice and playin. .357 will fire 38 special but not vice versa.

 

If you are looking for a revolving handgun I would go with a Ruger Gp100 in a .357 mag. Ruger is usually an afyer thought when looking for a revolver do to the popularity of S&W and Tarus, but they are a quality peice(strong frame) with great customer service if you ever have a problem, and are more reasonably priced than S&W and Tarus. If you want a 44 mag they have a redhawk and super redhawk that are nice handgun as well.

 

X2 on the Ruger

 

I am very partial to ruger. I own a 10-22T and it is my favorite gun. the customer service and aftermarket support is second to none.

 

... Truthfully, if used for handgun-hunting alone, I would look into the 454 Casull (second from left). This exhibit is a Ruger

Essentially, you can target practice with 45Long Colt in the platform all day long without punishing your wrist bone-structure too badly

Then, come hunt day you chamber her with the formidable 454 Casull - extremely powerful
The 500 S&W Magnum on the left is overkill, and I only pack it if I'm hiking in bear country

Desert Eagle .50 AE (chromed, 2nd from right) is used simple to scare young boys & women

 

I'd go with a .44 mag., preferably Ruger. If it's only for hunting, get a Super Blackhawk. They are Single action only, but they're cheaper that the Super Redhawks & others.
But look around, many people are selling guns in these "bad times" and you can stumble on some deals.

 

i was looking at a .357 mag not to long a go it was a Comanche 6 shot stainless steel w/black grip. not much of a fan of the grip, but i don't think the price could be beat @ $235 and it was made in a faraway land, Austria i think it was.

 

if it isnt for self-defence then i would buy a .45cal hi-point, there about $140 new. i have one, maybe have shot over 200 rounds through it and jammed only a few times...

BUT i use my .45cal Ruger for home defence and it has never jammed on me, great gun.

the next gun show im going to buy a tarus ultra light titanium to carry instead of the rugar.