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I couldn't agree more with this article and, as noted above, you can't beat pairing a .357 handgun with a Marlin lever action .357 rifle. I believe a Ruger GP100 (or its almost identical equivalent the S&W 686)is dollar for dollar the finest handgun on the market and certainly the one I'd recommend for a first time buyer. And I'm not anti-Semi auto by any stretch - a Glock 19 or Sig 226 are close to heaven and must haves. But for me nothing feels better in my hand than a GP 100, 4", and I am more accurate with it than any other handgun. The Smith is a couple hundred dollars more expensive and has a better trigger out of the box. The triggers on the Ruger are, however, very easy to work on for a gunsmith and can cheaply be made as good as the 686. For me the Ruger feels better in my hand and more solid. As for the rifle, with a little practice, anything out to 100 yards with iron sights is pretty easy with a Marlin lever action. 'nuff said.

You can't beat a .357 round either. More stopping power and penetration than a .45 ACP with easily manageable recoil and the reliability of a revolver. If you're absolutely sure you'll need more than six rounds then you go with the semi. Obviously the goal is to hit what you're aiming at consistently with enough force to stop the threat so whatever accomplishes this for you is the best firearm for you.