Snake
Do you feel you are actually going to have to use the gun? Not being argumentive, just realistic. When I was much younger and bulletproof, I'd opt for the biggest caliber I could conceal on my skinny frame. At that time I was 5'8 /165# of combat READINESS. Went thru a whole gamut of revolvers for hunting, combat, competition, tin cans. When all was said and done, if I could get my hands on one, I'd just stick an old High Standard Sentinel in my pocket loaded with 9 rds of long rifle.
Now some may argue about the stopping power of the ubiquitous .22 and poo-poo its effectivness, but I can guarandamtee you, I can put you in a grave with one. I may end up bleeding but you will be dead.
Now then, I've been shot with .22 Stingers and ended up in the hospital for months and multiple surgeries. But, the guy only shot me in the back 7 times. Takes more than that for a Marine .....
I'd have waited and gone for close up head shots but that is not an option for many. The vast majority of people out there can't shoot a pistol for shit and the discussions of guns makes and models/calibers is great for NG discussions but doesn't hold much water when it comes down to nitty-gritty of killing or stopping people. Too many variables for consideration in real life.
Bottom line is people mostly carry guns to feel safe. A funny side issue is how much more aware they are of the happenings around them and the potential they have to wreak destruction with their favorite shootznbanger that is concealed in their bikini, or sweatshirt, or running shorts, or carried around their neck, or stashed in their crotch, or ???
If that works, great! Avoidance is the best and appropriate action.
A Charter Arms Bulldog in 44Spl is probably the best I can think of in a wheelgun and is a superb stopper if you can shoot it. Goes back to most people can't shoot worth a shit. The little .22 North American Derringer is a great little gun and I can quickly tell you of several instances of people being killed with them. They were close up and personal but the dead guy can't tell the difference!
Seems like most of the quality guns are a thing of the past now and you end up with the dregs of hype and publicity. Unfortunately most of the training and quality of same has gone the same route.
What do you think A4's ? We agree on a lot of the same things and argue on just as many more but I think we both can defend our positions based on experience rather than on myth or magazine BS.
Semper Fi
Rocky - Distinguished Pistol Shot USMC aka Ol Shy & Bashful