[Jim Noble]

Why do you suggest a small handgun for HD?

If you don’t have to carry it concealed, the bigger the better, no?

[Hugin]

If you don’t have to carry it concealed, the bigger the better, no?

Not really, for reasons discussed copiously in this thread. Something you can slip in your pocket is a lot more likely to be on you. Honestly, do you carry a shotgun every time you answer the door, work around the yard, or go to the mailbox?

[UnwashedPeasant]

"Why do you suggest a small handgun for HD? If you don’t have to carry it concealed, the bigger the better, no?

I am no expert, but here is my reasoning for suggesting a small handgun:

1. My suggestion is primarily intended for housewife types, not necessarily for warriors. It is important not to have too much gun or omething to big for the hands.
2. Easier to manage in tight spaces. (Some have said that a shotgun is too easy for the perp to grab.) Useful if hiding in a small closet, for example. Someone mentioned a long gun being awkward when answering the door.
3. Can be managed one-handed, so you can use the other hand for a phone, etc.
4. Easy to keep nearby without getting in the way. I think few people would keep a rifle or shotgun under the pillow, for example.
5. Minimal kick, making it easier to use and control.
6. A 9mm with hollow points makes a big hole, and the gun I suggested has 13 of these bullets.
7. A 9mm or .22 semi-automatic will probably have more bullets than a bigger caliber gun.
8. If a 9mm has too much of a kick for the user, then so will everything else (I think), except a .22, which is also very effective at killing and disabling.
9. 9mm is good enough for police use. I've read that police departments will sometimes choose the .40 over the 9mm only because it is better shooting through windshields before hitting the target.
10. Popular models like the Glock and M&P are very dependable. Compared to a pump shotgun, for example.
11. The ammo is relatively cheap and easy to get.
12. For extra stopping power, the 9mm can use +p ammo.
13. As a bonus, you can conceal carry it easily. Even if you never intended to do so, you might have to do it sometime in an emergency.
14. If you do carry concealed, you will not have to train on two separate weapons.