what is the best pistol caliber for self defense and concealment?

.22
9mm
.25 auto
.32 acp
.40 s&w
or .45 acp
i have been shooting rifles, shotguns and pistols for years. the biggest pistol caliber i have shot was a .45 acp and it had a pretty good recoil. i have shot a 9mm to but it seems kind of weak.

Stick with your basics, 9mm, 40SW, 45 ACP, 38 Spl, and or 357.

As for concealment, just about everyone builds some form of compact of sub-compact handgun. My best advice is to check out your local FFL and see what they have in on of those calibers that fits you.

Best Pistol For Self Defense

Best Pistol For Self Defense

Hunters, best Handgun for this round?

So today, my cousins came down, and let us shoot there pistols. I was able to fire a .38 S&W Short barrel, a .40S&W in a Smith and Wesson Pistol, and a Colt 1911. I loved all three, but for affordability, I am interested in a .38spl. Now here be my question:
What revolver, new or used, would be best for this round, as a plinking/self defense gun? I don't want to spend over $300 (Which I know is pushing my luck). Any suggestions?

You have to be careful with what you call a cartridge. In your first mention of it, you referred to a .38 S&W and then later as a .38 Special. These are actually different cartridges that are not interchangeable. The .38 Special's full name is the .38 S&W Special, but it is the "Special" part that sets it aside from a much older, weaker cartridge known only as the .38 S&W. It uses a slightly bigger bullet and therefore should not be fired from .38 Special firearms.

Anyway, definitely get a .357 Magnum revolver because it actually will fire both the .38 Special as well as the .357 Magnum rounds. The best value out there is a Ruger GP100. You can pick up used ones for about what you want to spend. Taurus is much better than they used to be but still have a mixed reputation.

In a fullsize revolver the .357 Magnum will kick more than the .40 and .45 pistols, but will be quite controllable. With .38 loads, it will be a pussycat.

A 4" barrel is more practical for general purpose, and much easier to aim, but the 2" barrels are easier to conceal if that is allowed in your area.

Best Pistol For Self Defense
How To Select a Handgun for Self Defense

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