A standard 148 grain FULL WADCUTTER will work just fine for up close self defense.

You don't need to shoot very far for self defense or you place yourself in jeopardy
of a Prosecutor for possible murder charges.

If you want to shoot farther, get a rifle, across a large living room, use a 12 gauge with 7 or 8 shot
and aim at upper body or the head. That will end the fight.

I use wadcutters all the time for ladies training with snubbies and even the Airweight Snubbies.

The purpose is to NOT INDUCE A FLINCH.

Leave the +P's and Buffalo Bore loads for LEO's and RAMBO'S.

If you live in a VERY BAD NEIGHBORHOOD, or have drug dealers for neighbors, you needs will change.

I'd try relocating first, rather that a more powerful cartridge.

__________________
NRA Pistol/Rifle Inst. RSO