There’s no place I’d rather defend myself with a 9mm handgun than my 12 ga or my AR either. You seem to think that you are the only one who doesn’t compromise power for concealability. You are fooling yourself.
A 12 ga or AR is not easily concealable, a Glock 19 or Sig 365 is, when you can dress as you choose.
Lets say one unfortunately has to tuck their shirt; they might be able to wear a tuckable holster, I never have.
If I was in the unfortunate situation of tucked shirt required, PM9 in pocket with small hand sanitizer to break outline; all other times, happily untuck shirt and carry a decent gun.
There is no confusion or "fooling myself" in that I could carry a 9mm minimum; pleated dress pants and tucked shirt (God help me) Sig 365 in Smartcarry.