I carry pretty hot +P in my M85SSUL and have fired a number of 'em in that gun. It's still tight as new after about 6K rounds. Most of those rounds were standard pressure, but probably 400 or so were +P handloads. One of the main reasons I bought it back in 97 was it was one of the first alloy guns to be rated for +P. It does kick a little harder with +P, but it's quite manageable. They do a number on a hog in a hog trap, can tell ya that. I'm impressed with the penetration and exit wound of 158 grain +P hollow points. It is a plenty effective self defense load/gun. I feel no need to go for a magnum for civilian self defense, tough I have a few carry magnums, none of which are pocket type guns. As you say, the little ultra lite can ride in a pocket all day un-noticed and there when you need it. My SP101 is enough heavier and bulkier that it's relegated to IWB. The lighter Taurus also does MUCH better in an ankle holster for back up duty. The SP101 is a lump on the ankle.
Even if a gun isn't +P rated, though, it won't KB with with a normal +P .38. It may accelerate wear in the gun, but I've fired quite a few in steel Rossi 5 shot snubs which weren't +P rated with no ill affects and always carry the Rossis with +P. I don't feed any small .38 a steady diet of +P just like I don't feed medium frame .357s a steady diet of hot .357 loads. The gun will last longer shooting standard pressure loads.
