I'm bummed I missed a couple days on this one...
*When a person is carrying or loaded for defense, hollow points with a polymer insert are critical so your point doesn't clog and fail to expand. They cost a lot more than range ammo, but there is a reason; they're worth it.
*Different situations call for different types of defense weapons:
Urban carry - I'd go with a revolver, my choice
was (can't carry at work and 95% of my urban time is at work) a S&W 642. Small, hammerless, huge bullet, "R" in revolver = reliable.
Home def big - I'd go with a pistol grip .410 Mossberg shotgun loaded with 2.5" 000 buckshot.
Home def small - Taurus Judge 6" barrel loaded with Winchester PDX .410 shotshells. When you run outta ammo, you just give it a flip and use the barrel like a hammer handle and commence beat down.
Bail-out or get-home bag - S&W M&P .22. You can carry 500 rounds in a half-full sandwich bag.
http://www.theprepperjournal.com/2013/02/09/prepping-101-get-home-bag/
Woodland carry - Glock 22 .40. Big ammo without the big price.
Barn yard defense - DPSM Oracle in 5.56, 30rd mag, spring loaded bi-pod, 3x9 scope, three point sling, 55 grain Federal MCBT in 5.56.
Great Taurus Judge video:
Winchester PDX .410 simulation: