Bummer, you could have shot light 38 reloads and worked yourself up. I have a 38 and almost never shoot heavy loads, to damn expensive. But I keep it loaded with and keep a few speed loaders with heavy serrated jacketed hollow points next to it.
You are exactly right, had I shot the 38s 1st it may have never been sold.
Although ive shot guns since childhood the .357s had me flinching so bad the .22 would be far more lethal in comparison.
Even the guy at the range booth next to me seemed to flinch!