I'm not a self defense expert, but see value in having a pistol and a rifle. But given that the OP's stated purpose is 'home defense' and not concealed carry, then I'd go with the rifle first. But he'll need a bigger gun safe/locker
I don't know of any definitive studies on cartridge effectiveness, but much of the data allows one to infer that a rifle is more effective than any common handgun cartridge. And isn't that what we're interested in, effectiveness especially with no limitation on concealment?
That said, I do think the OP should consider CCW but with the knowledge that handguns do not appear to be as effective as people think at stopping a threat, if we believe the data from actual shootings.
