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Ruger makes a model 45/22 (or something like that). It is built to approximate the heft and trigger feel of the 1911 but fire a 22 round. I've never owned one, but I have fired them on occasion. To me they were harder to control than an actual 45 because the barrel was a bit lighter and the trigger a lot heavier than any of my 45s. I didn't like it. I own a Browning Challenger (Belgium FN made 22) which use for practice. I have found no problem transistioning from that to any of my guns including the 45.
Different people have different needs and styles. As usual, lots of good advice here, but not all of it for everyone. I think the best way to choose a gun and round is to spend time with them. I would select from the most readily available ammo choices and the most well made firearms. Then I would buy the biggest gun (round) that I can control. A well placed 22 round is far more effective than a missed 45 round. However, to me, the Kimber 45 is the ultimate auto. Reliable, controllable, comfortable (relatively speaking)and accurate. I'm not a fan of the 9mm because I feel one should not have to defend the stopping power of one's gun. I've had a number of them, mind you. Hi-Powers, 92fs, Glocks, but my favorite was the CZ 75. Great gun, but I couldn't get past the ammo. Too many "survival" stories.
As far as capacity-do you really need more than 6 or 7 shots? As far as range-do you really need a gun that's accurate beyond 10 feet? I believe the answer in most civilian cases to both questions is "No."
Re: ease of use-The hardest guns I had to shoot were my Glock 23-light with bad trigger feel and lots of muzzle jump, and My stock Colt Officers 45-short butt and barrel + big bore = quite a handful, and the above mentioned Ruger 22. Easiest-Challenger 22, CZ 75, S&W 629 (using 44 special loads-this is my ultimate home defense combo btw)).
Re: reliability-Why would anyone buy an unreliable design? Stick with the good stuff and they all function pretty well. Always keep them clean and maintained. Reliability isn't an option-it's like buying a car with the tires.
Re: availability-There are some weird rounds out there that are decent. But, I choose 45, 38, 44 and 22 just because the ammo manufacturers all make them and the developement of ammo is usually done there first. But-there are other good rounds for sure. You should be able to find anything you are looking for-the apocalyptic mindset of scarcity not withstanding. If that's what your concern is-learn to bow hunt.
So my list for home defense would go more like this-
1. accuracy
2. stopping power
To me, nothing else factors.
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