[Jeff Higgins]

I would never stake my life, nor the lives of my loved ones, on something unusual or trendy. In other words, I want something that I know I can find ammo for in a crunch. .45 auto, .357 mag, 9mm; stuff like that. Forget the trendy b.s. calibers like .357 Sig, the new shorter .45 auto, and that kind of crap. They are great for the hobbyst shooter, but you sure as hell will have a harder time finding ammo for any of those in NO today than for the more mainstream stuff.

There is also a lot to be said for proven designs in firearms themselves. 1911's have been around longer than any of us. So have your basic Smith and Wesson wheelguns in a variety of frame sizes to suit caliber. For something that you will really have to use in an emergency, as opposed to just play with at a range, that counts for a lot in my book. Leave this year's "latest innovations" for fun; when it gets serious, dig out yesterday's proven performers.

One more word about calibers: bigger is ALWAYS better. You say concealment is not an issue; you have guns for that. The only reason for small caliber sidearms is concealment. That said, don't go as far as to get into hunting handguns for defense. Again, look to the past - .45's have quite a sterling reputation; everything else is measured against them.

So where does this all point? 1911 .45 auto. Proven track record and ammo is available at any 7-11. Don't dick around and get caught up in what amounts to an enthusiasts' debate over trendy calibers and guns. Go with what has worked for darn near one hundred years. No other tool; no other mechanical device, can say it has remained the best tool for the job for as long as the 1911 .45. There is a lot to be said for that.