Originally Posted by Echo40

Lately I've had growing concerns over the possibility that I may one day have to defend myself against an attack by coyotes, dogs, or possibly even wolves. This concern is not unwarranted either, as lately I've been hearing a lot of barking and howling coming from the woods surrounding my property.

I typically carry a subcompact .40cal pistol such as my M&P40c or Shield when I go out, but when I'm around my house I usually just have a Ruger LCP in my pocket, which up until now I've had total confidence in, but all that barking and howling has unnerved me to the point that I'm having second thoughts and wondering if I ought to be carrying .40 S&W full-time.

I'd like to hear from some folks who've actually had to defend themselves against animal attacks of the sort. I know that sort of thing isn't especially common for civilians, but we have a fair amount of active/retired LEOs here who I presume most likely have some experience on the matter, and while most cops don't carry .380 ACP, a lot of officers have carried .38 Special or 9mm Parabellum, so if neither of those are particularly effective then I can safely say that .380 ACP wouldn't be either.