In a self defense situation you're responsible for every shot that comes out of that weapon. That's where caliber and practice comes in to play.

Like Jimmy I used to practice almost every month for years, now I just go but twice a year.

I practice combat shooting and it is 85% points shooting and 15% aim shooting. Everything from 5' to 30' (I think, 7 or 10 yards) is point shooting, beyond 30' is fast target shooting. Closer than 5' is hand to hand combat. Longer and lower caliber weapons are easier to point and shoot than short high caliber ones ( like .357mag snob nose) and require more practice to be effective.

When I carry the snob nose my combat range is shorter for this reason. I extend the range by using .38 special instead of .357mag. If caught outside of my combat range is best to take cover and retreat. When I carry the H&K 40 compact, I feel confident on a longer (50') combat distance.

Also every time you let go, you should do it in sets of two or three every time. More holes on center mass, lower the blood pressure quicker, assuring ( in most cases) incapacitation of the bad guy.

I also found that buying an air soft gun ( replica of the on I carry) gives the best practice to be fast and accurate for your dollar. I set targets in the garage or sometimes on the back yard and practice drawing and point shooting. It's fun, convenient and low cost.

Double O