I have had training with .45's, 9mm's, from my military years. On the streets, I had a small .25 popgun, a .38 (+P), and for close quarters, I had a .38 with snake shot. That worked just like a shot gun but only for about 10 feet. My preference is the Browning 9 as opposed to the Glock. Both are 14 and one in the pipe (if I recall correctly.)

The problem with firearms is training. There are tons of things you have to know before you start carrying (open carry or concealed.) For example, before you shoot, what's your down range? How do you hold the crazy thing? Certainly not twisted sideways, held high in one hand, pointing down (a favorite way the gas station robbers use.) How many times do you shoot? (Usually a burst of three unless you have several thousand hours on a range.) Before you shoot, what are your liabilities? When CAN you shoot legally; when can you NOT shoot legally. Do you HAVE to shoot? After the encounter(s), how do you recount the experience when all the details just vanish from your head... (secure your weapon, grab a pencil, write! Or, today, get a cell phone out and make a verbal recording of what you did, etc.)

There are lots of gun clubs and college classes that teach proper firearm use and safety. And, of course, practice.

Here in Canada, gun control is very strict. I don't have a firearm, technically. I do have a sailor's flare gun which is legal.

Because of my experiences in prison, I am never without a weapon. Even an ink pen or a Bic cigarette lighter can be one. Today's surgical tubing sling shot can be an effective deterrent against a bad guy. Technology today also allows for hand-held high-powered lasers that can be very interesting weapons.

The best self defense is never having to defend yourself. I like that.