Seems like the bullet choice matters a bit more in cartridges like the 38 for self defense purposes. If picking a the right bullet and load, I think it is a great choice. My preference would be something heavy and easily deformed, like a backward hollow-based 150gr wadcutter, or some version of a soft SWC-HP at 150-160 grains. I suppose some of the newer short-barrel Gold Dots at 135 grains would be a good choice, too, because of their thin jacket and bonded core.
I am more in the semi-auto camp though. There are flaws with autos, but they can be mitigated by tailoring the ammo to the gun so that functionality is as close to 100% as one can get. And because of the higher operating pressure, 9mm will trump 38 Special in power in same barrel length every time. That's never a detriment, and both are hard to shoot in small guns without practice.
