best handgun for car/personal protection?

[78X]

Recently a manager in our region was cased, followed home, and robbed when he got home. They asked him to go back to work and unlock the safe but was able to get away. Needless to say I am getting a gun now.

That being said, for a newb, what pistol would you suggest for carrying in the car and for home/personal protection?

[Kart21]

Kel-tec P3AT in the pocket and a .45 for the backup.
First rule in a gun fight is to have a gun.

[Chopped54]

Depends on budget.
My main carry pistols are Ruger LCP, Kimber UC II, and I just bought a XDM 3.8....

[Moose242]

There is no "best gun". You need to try a bunch out and see what fits you best. Most gun ranges do rentals so you can figure out what you really like.

However, I am partial to small revolvers for carry. 100% reliable, light, and pack a hell of a punch.

[Rlhay2]

The best gun is the one that:

1) Feels comfortable in your hand.
2) You have been trained to shoot.
3) Fits your budget.
4) Fits properly in the holster you choose to carry.

A gun won't help if you exercise poor environmental awareness.

[IHaveAMustang]

A gun won't help if you exercise poor environmental awareness.

This.

If I am in my cul-de-sac and there is another vehicle behind me, I just keep going and circle out.

[YALE]

There is no "best gun". You need to try a bunch out and see what fits you best. Most gun ranges do rentals so you can figure out what you really like.

However, I am partial to small revolvers for carry. 100% reliable, light, and pack a hell of a punch.

I've been kind of hankering for a S&W Centennial/40. They're sweet.

[jakesford]

The best gun is the one that:

1) Feels comfortable in your hand.
2) You have been trained to shoot.
3) Fits your budget.
4) Fits properly in the holster you choose to carry.

A gun won't help if you exercise poor environmental awareness.

And one that you will actually carry...

[8mpg]

Just get an XD

[payne5757]

If it is only going to be an in car gun and youre not going to carry it, Id say go for a full frame high capacity gun of your liking. I put my P95 in my nylon range holster and put it between the drivers seat and the middle seat. the seats hold the holster and it still comes right out after the thumb release is hit.

[Brandon-k]

Rifle Length AR Pistol.

[dville_gt's girl]

There is no "best gun". You need to try a bunch out and see what fits you best. Most gun ranges do rentals so you can figure out what you really like.

However, I am partial to small revolvers for carry. 100% reliable, light, and pack a hell of a punch.

Completely agree.