For personal defense, and as a sidearm for hunting in areas where bear and lion are common, I wouldn't trust a .380. I'm not surprised by the post about a guy getting shot by one 4 times and running off. It is a pretty low powered load. In fact, I just watched a program on the Walther PPK and one thing they said about it was that in some situations, it would be hard pressed to penetrate a heavy overcoat. That's not good. I'd look to a 9mm at minimum, and more probably a .40 S&W or .357 SIG. As to what to buy, there are too many options and opinions you can get. I am a H&K guy myself, and a buddy I have swears by Kimber. These are both high dollar pistols ... but very reliable and accurate. Remember that you get what you pay for. Stay with a tried and true name. Research the models that you are considering carefully. You can't be too careful with a decision like this that involves your personal safety ... be it in the home or in the field. Good luck.
