A nine maybe not but consider over 90% of those shot with a handgun live long enough to hurt you. Most go on to live to see another day. I admit to not liking a mouse gun but agree in some cases a mouse gun may be the only option . If it is the only option one should give it all the help they can. I did not offer some idea I came up with but what is considered the best way to use the 22's, 32's, and 25's.
That said I haven't found a need for anything smaller than a Jframe . But I do like a 32 Tom Cat if the need ever came up . Its just never come up.
Untill they make concealable shotguns and rifles we're stuck with handguns. As with any gun, fired in any situation, shot placement is always the key. Don't matter if you're shooting at targets, animals, or people. As far as an antagonist goes, animal or human, you don't stop shooting untill the threat is no more. One shot, instant, stops is for the movies. The reason most act iratic when attacked is because they were taken by surprise, and or, are not prepared to use their weapon if needed. Be aware, be prepared both physicly and mentaly, and the odds of surviving are increased dramaticly. That includes knowing when to draw and fire. Just having a gun ain't likely to save you. It also takes practice, knowing the law, and reading what is going on around you. Not to mention the most over looked factor....proper mind set.....kill or be killed!
