Read an excellent essay on carrying a handgun--

I agree.

http://munchkinwrangler.blogspot.com/2007/03/why-gun-is-civilization.html

What is not mentioned is the ability to assist others if such a situation occurs.

Does handgun carry make a difference?
My wife can guarantee you it does.A 357 snub prevented an assault/robbery outside a qwik mart store several years past.