My heart is in revolvers, and yes IMO the 38sp is enough cartridge to get things handled. I do not carry anymore. RI is a difficult place to get a permit. I could do it, but in all the 30+ years that I did have concealed carry permits, I never carried a sidearm every day. That is just me I guess. However, if I were going to carry every day it would be my Glock 36. Why, it is light, reliable, and IMO fires the best all around pistol cartridge ever developed, the 45 acp. Carry one full clip in the gun, and 1 spare