[Edward Tinker]

Have to agree with most everyone, that is for sure. I would rely on a Luger as a defensive weapon if I "had" to, but if you have time, grab a shotgun or assault type of gun. I like the .45 because of its size and stop-ability, although the 40's are good, it depends on where you live. You have next door neighbors and a 40, a 9 mm, a 357, anything that can go through several walls is a detriment. A .45 or shotgun with bird shot will stop almost anybody. But bullet placement is the important thing, if you can consistently hit something small then any caliber will do okay. We used to always hear, more people are killed by a .22 in the US every year than all other calibers. I assume this is still true. But also remember that under stress, it is hard as heck to hit anything, after a gun fight, you might pop off 10 rounds and swear you shot two, and never hit a darn thing.