The thing is, we all carry something around to make us feel better, to give us a sense of security, to bring us good luck, or a combination of these things. A handgun is carried by a person who expects no trouble; for there are far better and effective firearms than handguns to deal with trouble when you know it is coming. A handgun is a personal thing. The brand, caliber, barrel length, finish, holster it is carried in and the load carried in it; all very personal choices that fall just short of becoming a religion.
A handgun might save one's life if that is in the stars. Hopefully all one will get out of a lifetime of carrying a firearm will be a few twisted belts, an aching hip, and relief.
I agree with this 100%. In my LEO days, I used to carry a full size gun off duty, just because there was always a good chance I may need to use it. As a civilian, the chances of needing a gun and then being able to effectively use it are about as slim as getting struck by lightning. For a long time I didn't carry anything. But having at least something makes me feel better and I recognize that it's mostly a crutch thing. Which is why I've spent the last few years searching, buying and testing some super compact light guns. I can tell you whatever you want you know about the various .38/.357 compact smiths, the compact Glocks, the Kahrs, Ruger's new plastic revolver and even the Rohrbaughs. All have advantages and disadvantages.
Woods carry is a different matter however, for at least me. Because I go places in the mountains that are pretty remote and well off any beaten path and because I have run into things like black bear and my exploring partner has run into cougar, I do take what I carry in the woods seriously. Which is now a S&W model 66, 3" loaded with Buffalo Bore 180 grain hardcast loads.
