Good man! I keep a 9mm in the car since I travel so much. Keep a double-barrel 12 guage at home. First barrel has #4 shot. May not kill 'em, but they will wish they were dead. Second barrel has 00 buckshot. IF they manage to get up from shot #1, they won't from shot #2.
As for mess, I figure it is much easier to clean up the mess than explain to relatives why I didn't do more to stop some scumbag from hurting someone I love. I can buy clorox and paint, but not another loved one.
As for IT guys and spackling, I am an IT guy and have designed & built several homes in my time. Of course, I also hunt & fish, enjoy woodworking and did home repairs when I was out of work for a while.
My wife calls me a redneck computer geek! :)
Are you familiar with various state laws where you travel, assuming your travels take you out of state? Some states will honor your states carry laws and some will not. If you enter my state with a loaded gun in your car you are committing a felony, no matter where your permit is from.
I live in 2ond. amendment non believing Illinois.
Amended -
Unless you are a cop. By Federal law all cops are permitted to carry in all U.S. states.