
We also found a $702 semi-automatic by Ruger, the 99/44 Deerfield. Our test guns included two short lever actions, the $591 Marlin 1894 and the $458 Winchester Model 94 Trapper.

44 Magnum has plenty of self-defense potential, but less “shoot-through” problems that standard rifle cartridges might cause in a home or apartment protection situation. 44 Magnum creates too much recoil in a handgun, but is not nearly as punishing when chambered in a shouldered weapon. We recently got three handy carbines, two lever actions and one autoloader, chambered for. But how about a firearm that is more powerful than a handgun, more controllable than a shotgun, and easier to handle than a full-sized rifle? Add economical to buy and feed as desirable characteristics, and you have our choices for this test.

When it comes to choosing a defensive weapon, there are as many choices as there are applications.
