Not once did I say that was my intent. I only said - to paraphrase - that in the past I was OK with the disadvantages of using a smaller calibre weapon when necessary for defense. It was what I owned. If you look closely, you'll also see that I've owned a shotgun. That gun lived within arm's reach next to my bed for more than thirty years. I was skilled in its use, and it was always loaded and ready to go.

One thing I should correct is the phrase "staring down the barrel of a gun." Several of you have taken me to task for that statement, and rightfully so. It wasn't meant to be taken literally, and that's my fault. I had hoped my meaning would be clarified by comments regarding intruders in the second paragraph of my OP. That seems to have gotten lost in the mix.

Thanks to everyone who has responded, but especially those who stayed OT and attempted to answer my original question. I realize this must seem like a very rudimentary issue, and I appreciate your advice.