[pluspforyou38]

i want to get something small as a back up gun. i cant decide between a snub .22mag revolver or a ruger LCP

412

[danf_fl]

Most rely on the .380 as the smallest caliber to have for self defense.

Rimfires have their place, but if I had to stop a 200lb bad guy...

[axxe55]

i agree with dan, as there are a lot better alternatives to a rimfire, but in a bad situation could be better than a stick. a rimfire will and can kill a person is shot placement is observed, but in a highly stressful, SD situation, shot placement could go out the door and hitting someone with a rimfire cartridge in a non-vital area could have results that are hazardous to your well being. if looking for a back-up pistol, i would give serious thought to the 380, or a small 38 revelver. i have heard of people who have carried a 22 mag. revolver or derringer type pistol for a back-up, but it's not something i would recommend personally. for me the 380, or the small 38 would be the smallest caliber i would use.

[jpattersonnh]

For a back up, look at 9x18. Pistols are cheap and built like tanks. The PA63 is very good.
http://www.gunsamerica.com/984542489/Guns/Pistols/FEG-Pistols/FEG_PA_63_HUNGARIAN_9X18.htm

[mayscat44]

The 9x18 guns might be cheap, but the ammo isn't...but then again neither is the 380's...stick with 9x19