This is actually going better than I thought it might.

As a defense weapon, I would not be well armed with a knife. There is a difference between being an antagonist and a defender.

I have carried a NAA in .22LR since the 1960s as a backup. I have been very happy with it.

Now, the hard part. I learn a long time ago that listening to speculation is one thing, and learning from people that have actually been there and done that is another, and that is especially true when it comes to firearms use. Do I carry a .45ACP? Yes, so it goes without saying I believe that .45s are a better choice than 9mm for me, but not necessarily for others. It is also important to note that most civilians are only going to need a “get off of me gun” rather than an “enforcement gun”. There is a serious difference of purpose that often goes unacknowledged by far too many trainers of civilian carriers. That means that .380s and .22s are well worth consideration, especially as a means of assuring consistent carry.