Thanks. I’m thinking hip as I’m out exercising - mostly brisk walking at this point - something I can reach from under an untucked T-shirt or sweatshirt. Maybe carry in the side pocket of fleece sweats or shorts I usually wear, no holster? Only concern might be it getting snagged in the pocket when retrieving.
If you practice at removing the weapon from your pocket with your thumb on top of the hammer you will not have any issues at snagging the hammer on your clothing. I’ve been doing it that way for 46 years and never had a problem. Trigger finger alongside the trigger, three fingers around the grips and your thumb goes on top of the hammer. When you still have the barrel pointed down, bring the hammer back to full cock position, then put your index finger inside the trigger guard.
Remember that everything is situational. For example, if stray dogs are a concern, pepper spray is good. Coyotes, you need a gun. Far away ambush attackers, a gun.
Lots of concealment so they are very close when they attack, a knife (because of the Tueller distance, which for civilians not expecting an attack is much greater than for police expecting an attack.)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tueller_Drill
Another tactical tip is that when going around corners, do not go tight to the corner like they do on TV and in the movies. Instead go wide around the corner, which lets you see an attacker waiting to nail you a lot sooner than he can see you.
Yet another weapon you might consider is a telescoping baton, either tube or spring. They come in several sizes, from slightly larger than palm size, and can pack one heck of a wallop.