I appreciate all of the advice given here, especially since I’m much less knowledgeable and experienced as many of you. I began this thread with questions about ammo selection, specifically about a gun that I already own and practiced with. With my knowledge of hands on self defense, I recognize armed self defense as a HUGE step in efficiency, but only if the weapon can be accessed when needed. Let me share an amusing true story. My new house was under construction, and my previously shared dwelling was no longer available to me. Tom, the generous close friend that worked with me as rough and tumble phone men, offered to take me in, no charge. After hot days of climbing poles and digging holes, many of the guys would gather at a local pub, shooting pool and shooting the bull. Tom was a Vietnam combat vet whose job as a helicopter door gunner required him to kill and kill some more. He confessed to me once that he had committed atrocities in free fire zones, and that tale i will not share here, as it would ruin your day. Sitting to my right on a bar stool, he began to loudly berate me for wasting time many evenings training in martial arts. “Karate! Why ya need that ——ing karate! I got Big Bertha!” That was his name for the Dan Wesson .44 magmum with the 10” barrel, kept beneath the seat of his truck. Swiveling around with my left hand, I put thumb and forefinger under his chin, near his throat, and this 150 lb guy lifted his 240 lb frame right up on his feet, as he had no choice but to comply. “Where’s Big Bertha now Tom!” “It’s in my ———-ing truck!” “Well my fingers are with me, and they’re on your ——-ing throat!” After his few select words, I bought us another round, and my roomie calmed down. My point is that you must practice with your chosen weapon, and carry it. I want to thank PSANTOS for suggesting the Ruger .380, and I’m looking into it. I already own a J frame. But even if I change my EDC, there will always be a place for the .22. Think of the hours of the day when you are not carrying. I have almost none of those. Getting back on topic, guys, I’m still looking for the best self defense ammo for .22 magnum from the
1 1/8” barrel. When I whip this thing out of my bathing suit, I want it to hurt.