I don't think that Clint said that.
That "idiot" would be Clint Smith.
Clint did say this
"The handgun would not be my choice of weapon if I knew I was going to a fight. I’d choose a rifle, a shotgun, an RPG or an atomic bomb instead."
Clint Smith
I'll side with Clint.
If a rifle is available - I'd MUCH rather have that. If a rifle isn't available - I'd make due with the pistol but I'd rather have the rifle.