38 and 22 magnum pistols

Question
Hi,
I have understood from various people or sources that a .38 is really the minimum size to carry for real self-protection.  And I remember even reading about a special model made for women.  Still I wonder, because I saw a small pistol the other day, a 4 shot (I think).22 magnum.  Could that be considered a stopper, or still is the .38 the minimum recommended for that purpose?
Carl

Answer
Carl,

The .38 Special does generate more energy at the muzzle than does a .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire, but not by a lot. About the best load out of a .38 Special is a 125-grain JHP+P load, generating in the neighborhood of 315 or so foot-pounds of energy. There are some 40-grain .22 Magnum loads that get up to right around 200 foot-pounds of energy.

With a .22 Mag for self-defense, shot-placement becomes key, you'd want to aim for the neck/face of your assailant.

Neither cartridge developes a punishing amount of energy, but both are adequate for self-defense at the close ranges such encounters tend to take place at.

Hopefully I've been of some help, if you've any other questions, please feel free to ask a follow-up.

Kyle