Very well done, Yoda.
Its a mark of a real man who can recognize his faults.
You did the right thing.
As to the last part........its still dangerous territory. We know that a 22lr isn't optimal for self defense, and that ratshot certainly isnt either. Without context or intonation, I'd almost consider that line a joke. Not being there, I can't tell. ( For the record, in any and all fairness to the dealers stupidity if that wasn't a joke....mebbe she couldn't handle a larger weapon.... I have seen 22's sail through drywall, and hollowcore doors at the range)
Maybe this is why I don't involve myself in others' sales transactions.... It's often better not knowing how some folks make a living.... Thats a sad statement, but true.
If you were there, and someones safety was in jeopardy, and you made a call to "buck up" and say something, I wouldn't hold it against ya. I doubt anyone reasonably could... its safety, after all.