While I have 38spcl, 357 mag, 9mm, 40 cal and 45acp and shotguns, ar 15 (5.45x39) types and AR 10 types and others, I keep pistols all around me (just me and the wife in the house).
However not only the ability to use those weapons is important, but the willingness to shoot at a human, if necessary (as a last resort), is important and possibly most critical, IMHO.
I often wonder about that with myself but think I know the answer. The last time I shot at a human was in 1969 in Southeast Asia. When I came home I would not touch a gun for well over 30 years....they turned my stomach as I had seen and participated in what they could do even if I was paid to do it at the time.
After a couple incidences of attempted car jacking and home break in I knew I could do it again..... I started with a revolver (Ruger SP101 spurless...357 mag/38 spcl) and have not looked back. Now I can not fathom not having one on me or near me.....heck on the spur of a moment I went to the local express store a few weeks ago and realized I had left my usual carry at home and I usually had another in the truck but had forgot that I had taken it inside to clean.........I felt naked and empty....was a weird feeling.....I know I rushed back to the house.