Re self defence. In Aust if you have any item for self defence the police say you premeditated your actions toward the offender so is murder if you kill a person. The way you are required to store the firearms and ammo would make it very hard to justify having a firearm ready in time to defend yourself. Yes there are situations that legit self defence with a firearm can happen but I won't go into them on an open forum.

You are allowed to defend your self and killing another person is justified if you are in immediate fear of your or another persons life or suffering grevious bodily harm. This is short & simplified version.

Handguns generaly require that the handgun be stored in a locked and bolted down safe. Different states have different requirements in this regard. Most require you to attend and participate in 6 competitions at your home club each year. 8 attendences for more than one handgun. Minimum barrel lenght and max magazine capacity apply. Attending competetions at other clubs anywhere do not count towards your 6 attendances at home club.