As I said to the OP dumbazz (speking of reading impaired), you'd better be thoroughly and properly trained if you're going to carry in terms of the two-legged variety. I'd be willing to bet most that have posted here AREN'T. If not, you're better off with Mace and a knife.
But you're one of the penis impaired macho azzholes that seem to dominate this forum as a rule.
Just reading through. Some good points, some funny, some bizarre...
This comment stood out though. Not sure how someone with out "thorough and proper" training is supposed to fair better in a knife fight than they would would in a situation where they could spray an azzhole and then shoot if he's still a threat?
I'll take a can of spray and a pistola, thanks. If the sub 2lb pistol becomes an issue I'll leave the Fairbairn Sykes fighting knife at the mall ninja shop.
I've often thought about Brad's point regarding training and proficiency with a handgun. I shoot a lot of pistol and see the majority of folks at the range have difficulty shooting reasonable groups at even poker table distances. IME, pistol shooting is like my golf game, if I take time off from it, my accuracy suffers. I wonder how effective the average person would be in a SHTF scenario considering what I've observed in benign range settings. It does seem like a pepper spray option may be better than a handgun for some.
I've always looked at SHTF scenarios like other emergency situations like home fires, car accidents, etc. How much insurance do I need given the conditions and worst case scenario probability. Hiking, climbing, day hiking, etc., the cost of a firearm is generally weight. In terms of the coverage and security it provides, it's based mostly on proficiency. I guess if you feel like you can get it done under the pressure of a life-threatning scenario, go with the firearm. If you have doubts, maybe other options are more suitable (situation deterance, pepper spray, etc.).
I prefer a rifle or pistol (if anything at all), but like some, I'm school and real-world trained in their use. I don't tell people what car insurance policy they should get, so I won't tell them what they should do here. I would probably suggest that they really guage their proficiency with a firearm before choosing that option. I'm sure some never give it this much thought at all.
As to the original question...for some strange reason I like revolvers in a .357 Mag flavor for woods and trail carry. I rarely carry unless I'm really out there with my family or friends. I find I can avoid most SHTF situations with common sense and awareness, but that's road I travel. Yours may be different.
Interesting discussion and a fun read!
