Note that I do not expect to shoot this gun a lot, so issues with heavy usage are not a large concern.
I have had bad luck with the consistency of Taurus build quality. I would get the Ruger.
“my wife really worries about me when I go off to some semi-remote spot...”
Your wife has every good reason to worry about you.
First, you are contemplating the purchase of a firearm for self protection on the trail, and $20-$25 is a factor in this decision???
Second, you’re going to carry your life protecting arm in a backpack???
Finally,”I do not expect to shoot this gun a lot...” Sure. Why spend the time and effort necessary to master the use of the weapon that you’ve chosen to protect your life with?
You seem like a nice guy. See if you can get a cerebral implant before you venture into the wild.
After you do, the solution to your quandary will be obvious.
The Charter Arms ,44 SPECIAL, Bulldog revolver. After the implant you’ll know why.