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Thanks BR. Obviously this subject is important to me, and having been in harm's way a little from time to time, I know it as much more than just an interesting hobby. There is so much misinformation around, that even though I usually feel somewhat embarrassed after one of my opus posts, I feel compelled to cast whatever light I have found for the assistance of others, and discussion. So, thanks for patting moi on the head.

I especially value tools which can accomplish various jobs in a real pinch. Hunting for food, and effectively dispatching livestock and predators is also kind-of on the important side to me.

Now that the thread is flourishing, how about a little input from YOU diverteach! I dive too, and have had to carry a .38 Chief in a plastic bag, for personal protection from feral dogs and people while leaving the water. For this use, I favor a stainless revolver. Water easily drains from a revolver, and a dead round is easily passed by to a hopefully good one, should the waterproofing fail.

Other considerations for you may be, but I am assuming this without your input, that you may be concerned with rattlesnakes as I have been while diving in remote areas of Florida. For this, the .44 is FAR superior to any .38/.357 with shot charges. FAR better. I would not hesitate to shoot it at pests or very small game even a few yards away, not so with a lesser caliber. There is more shot, which provides a more saturated pattern at short range...what Squantos may call "minute of rattlesnake head." A .38 will certainly require more shooting.

One other, other thing. Experience has taught me that although .38/.355 class handguns are very popular and certainly handy to carry and draw...most live targets will require more shooting...not a good thing. I have noticed that the truth is often inconvenient, and it took me a loooooong time to face that what I was convinced would work for me, didn't, when it was my butt out there. For hunting, the penalty may be living with having caused suffering...something important to me. For self defense....it could mean the world.