I think a handgun of any type is grossly inferior to about any type of major caliber centerfire rifle. I think it was Jeff Cooper who said something to the effect that a handgun is what you use to fight your way to your rifle. A model 94 Winchester in 30-30 is a superior defensive tool than the most exotic, most powerful handgun you care to mention.
Well a 30-30 WCF is okay, but it wouldn’t benefit you over a 360 gr Casull loading or a 480 Ruger or 475 linebaugh w/ 410 gr. HC in close quarters. Trouble is most can’t handle what it takes to accurately shoot them in a stressful situation. They do however have plenty of power to make a stop due to their ability to penetrate well beyond what a 30-30 will do.
