I certainlyhope the situation never comes up where I would have to shoot someone but I think for anyone who purchases a gun there is always that thought in the back of their mind. I just wondered why everyone advises against a 9mm for self defense. I thought a 9mm would be a good "starter" gun and one that I could still carry for self defense if I needed it but everyone I talk to keeps telling me to get a .40. I don't have alot of money and really cant afford to purchase one gun just to start out with and then buy another later on. I just recently lost my job and have a baby on the way so right now my options are limited. My father in law has a .22 revolver so I suppose I could practice shooting that for now.