Lots of debate on this.
There are endless opinions on this question, and lots of debate about the reliability of small automatic pistols across many firearm messageboards.
For a small 9mm pocket pistol, the steel frame Kahr MK9 is the only one never mentioned somewhere as being unreliable. I have read many boards for years now, and all other brands and models have somebody saying they had reliability or repair issues. Slightly larger is the very reliable S&W CS9, the new "Chief's Special 9mm, though it is no longer made. Both of these are expensive.
On another board that I most respect, populated by real cops and agents, for pocket carry the S&W snubby revolver is universally respected and carried---but never inexpensive, unless you are lucky and find a good used one. Some issues: the .357 is PAINFUL to shoot and thus rarely practiced with, and your hand may become afraid to shoot; even the .38+P Special is painful in "Airweight" and "Scandium" snubbies, so stainless steel is probably a better choice as the extra weight absorbs more recoil. Many of the .38 Specials are said to be remarkably accurate for such a short barrel. The "Centennial" model keeps lint and dust from pocket carry out of the internals.
Now, I'll plug my personal choice! I feel that bullet placement is more important than power, and so controllability and shot recovery is the most important issue. The hand must not be afraid of the gun, and shooting it should not hurt, allowing practice and successful aim! I carry a S&W snubby in .32 H&R Magnum; it is a very light Airweight model for easy carry, with SIX shots with the ballistic equivalent of most non-Plus-P .38 Specials. Macho men sneer at this "Lady's" caliber, but I'd rather put two into the target while they try to recover from the recoil blast and pain from their bigger bullets!
In my opinion, it is about saving your life, not trying to scare someone with the big bore of your gun!................elsullo
