BudsGunShop.com - 38 special

Yes you can use 38 special in this 357 mag with no problems. you will just need to clean the cylinder good after shooting a lot of them to prevent a carbon ring from forming which would then make it hard to load the longer 357 mag ammo

Yes you can shoot 38 special for lighter recoil for fun days plinking at the range or use 357 mag for defense. I own the Ruger speed six Wich is essentially the same gun with a 2 3/4 inch barrel and it's very reliable and accurate for such a short barrel. I'd definitely recommend a Ruger service six they're made very well.

Yes, the bullet diameter is the same, and 357 mag is a higher pressure round, then the 38special, so you can shoot 38 out of a 357.
And Randy's correct about cleaning the cylinder more often when shooting 38-special

Yes you can. No issues whatsoever firing 38 special or 38 special +P. Cheers and stay safe!