The time he spent chambering a round (racking the slide) could have been spent shooting his attacker.
Agree completely. Though I carry both, in my unprofessional opinion anyone with a semi auto uncomfortable with a round in the chamber should probably opt for a revolver. Things happen fast.
At 30 yds?
Save your ammo.
Here; we have coyotes that have mixed with dogs & are now much braver than they once were.