I use a progressive defense load pattern in my 357.The first two rounds are snakeshot.That won't stop anybody but stings like hell.
The next two rounds are semi wad cutters loaded backwards.Those won't penetrate but will knock you down.The third two rounds are 158 gr. jacketed hollow points with the hollow points drilled out and shotgun primers pressed in backwards.I call these disrupters.If I have to get to those your probably going to be cut in half.If I get called on whether I used excessive force,I can point out that he would't stop on the non lethal rounds.This also helps if a child has got a hold of the weapon.The snakeshot probably won't seriously injure anybody but should scare the hell out of the child if he discharges the weapon.If needs be in a confrontational situation,I can get six rounds off in under four seconds.