I think the .38 S&W British Army issue break-tops are neat guns.
Several concerns:
1. Gun durability/forecasted lifespan
2. Durability of the steel used
3. Ballistic capabilities and terminal performance of the .38 S&W cartridge/bullet
4. Comfort of the the grips
My concern is that these thisgs were more a "badge of office/rank" than serious use revolvers. I'd question their durability and the quality of the steel alloy used; break-tops aren't noted for handling hotter loads well, and my concern is over that coupled with any steel quality issues.
The .38 S&W is a pretty anemic cartridge, and what would be crucial for its viability as a defensive cartridge is its capability to be spiced up into +P territory-and if the Enfield can indeed handle such upgraded cartridsges. I personally has one of the WWII Austrailian Army Smith & Wesson 5" Victory revolvers in .38 S&W; it did not handle +P cartridges well, and I suspect that the Victory was stronger than the Enfield...
Grips. The issue grips on the Enfields are literally some of the most uncomfortable and unpleasant to fire grips I've ever encountered. For any serious use and carry, they would need to immediately go, but I have no idea if there are in fact ANY aftermarket grips that are both available and ergonomic (and comfortable) for these revolvers.
World War Supply has some period holsters for them:
https://www.worldwarsupply.com/produ...egory/british/
They're neat, historically significant guns, but I find it difficult to visualize them as anything more than hobbyist/range toy guns.
Best, Jon