Beretta 93R & Tokarev TT33 full-auto.

[McGillicuddy]

In terms of reliability and responding as expected, I'd feel most secure with my old familiar, a Browning Hi Power 9mm with a full clip and a spare of enhanced ballistics like Winchester Ranger T 127 gr. +P+. The hot load and the expansion of the bullet makes up for its size. Its accuracy and control ability are second to none. And if you shoot until the threat is over you will have done plenty of damage. I think selecting a defensive weapon is similar to choosing your fishing lures. It's about confidence. Shad rap or Grub on a jig - in the right hands they both produce. I love a single action .44 magnum Ruger Blackhawk, but in a modern gunfight it is way too unwieldy to be effective under duress. Shooting the HiPower is like signing your name. Only hang up is it must be cocked and locked to be ready to go one handed if forced to do so.

I'd be willing to bet the success the .22 results are due to the number of close range execution-style head shot assassinations

[nestorpr]

Not to shanghai the thread but this was my birthday gift from my wife this past March:



Ruger New Vaquero in .45 Colt with aftermarket Amboyna Burl grips. Shot it with several different loads but my favorite "shock and awe" load is Cor-Bon Hunting load of 300 grn Sierra FSP at +P pressures, 1300+ fps and 1100+ ft/lbs of energy at the muzzle! Contacted Ruger Arms to clear the load and they gave me the go-ahead (I had heard that the New Vaquero could not shoot +P ammo but the factory says yes).

[Fr. Frank]

Not to shanghai the thread but this was my birthday gift from my wife this past March:

Ruger New Vaquero in .45 Colt with aftermarket Amboyna Burl grips.

SWEET!