Well, I believe the choice of handguns really is a personal preference. I have carried and shot both. For me, each has its own place.

It looks like most new buyers are getting autos. That is what is shown in movies, TV, internet, video games, and in the news when they show street violence and you see 10, 15, or 20 shell cases on the ground.

Is a semi better than a revolver for personal protection? If one is being accosted and is feet away from an attacker, the handgun that can be deployed quickest is best which could be a revolver or Glock style semi. A 1911 would be slower unless you walk around with loaded, cocked & locked.

When the fight is beyond knife distance, practice and familiarity with the pistol rules. Most shooters that I have trained had trouble hitting the target at 7 yards. Of course, more shots meant the possibility of hitting something increases. The opposite side is that one or two well aimed shots is significantly better than a 15 shot spray.

For hunting and for carrying in the woods, I think a revolver is better. Of course, I have never used 15 shots to shoot a deer or rabbit.