Depends on what "inexpensive" means to you. Ruger, Tarus and S&W could all fill the bill.
education,defense,nation
It can be, depending on the skill of the user.
The abstract nouns in the sentence are education and defense.
single action revolver example colt peacemaker
The Rohm RG 10 was manufactured starting in 1961. It is a revolver known for its unique design and is part of Rohm's line of firearms that were produced in Germany during that era. The RG 10 continued to be produced until the late 1980s, gaining a reputation for being an inexpensive option for self-defense.
For the beginning of the Revolver used first in areas for a sidearm in hunting it eventually became the icon for wild-west movies. The first revolver was known as a wheel-lock revolver and was made in 1590 for Germany. It was later patented by Elisha Collier in Britain to be used as a common weapon for defense and flintlock like medium protection.
Typically they are used for personal defense and for target shooting. The .38 Special revolver was a standard firearm for many American law enforcement officers for years, and has been used as a military sidearm.
The number 357 in a 38 revolver refers to the caliber of the ammunition it can use. The significance lies in the fact that the revolver can also fire .357 Magnum rounds, which are more powerful than standard .38 Special rounds. This versatility allows the revolver to be used for different purposes, such as self-defense or target shooting, depending on the ammunition chosen.
The question is not complete, as caliber - and manufacturer, as concerns the M1911 -are not considered. Added: Personally I believe that the .45 caliber is a better man stopper round than the Beretta's 9 millimeter round. In the past I have carried the Mod 92 as an issued law enforcement service weapon. It is a MASSIVE pistol. The Mod 1911 Colt (or it's imitators) is also pretty hefty. If you are carrying it (legally, I hope) for self defense, neither of them are easily concealable. Most self defense shooting takes place well within 10 yards and both of the pistols you ask about are really too large for self defense carry. I would consider a smaller, more concealable pistol in either of those two calibers.
Revolvers are used for self defense, hunting, and target shooting. In a pinch, they can also be used as paperweights. (OK, just kidding about the paperweight thing)
Public defenders are free for indigent defendants. Inexpensive defense attorneys can be found in the yellow pages.
Worth it for what? They are inexpensive, provide one good shot, and are usually robust and reliable. It's much easier to make a single than a double or a repeater. If one round will accomplish your task--clay target, hunting, defense--then they are definitely worth it. Good used and imported new ones can be had for about $100 in 2012.