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A derringer featured in some show I was watching and I was curious about what ended being "Micro Compact" Handguns -- what was a modern update to a Derringer? Here's a link: https://gundigest.com/handguns/concealed-carry/best-micro-9mm-handguns. 
I was curious as to metrics on these things and a long discussion with ChatGPT about factors like particular firearms, ammunition, and best practice in the context of 'self-defense' (a common context within which these are discussed. What I finally ended up with were conclusions on the topic as practical considerations. These things would be more relevant to people in the United States. Here in Canada we are a bit more sober about Firearms and rightly so. Here's a poster for this:

⚠️ Practical Advice on Handguns for Civilian Self-Defense

Simple, evidence-based guidance for anyone considering a firearm

1️⃣ Guns Are Dangerous for the Owner

  • Firearms increase the risk of accidental injury or death in the home.
  • Access to a gun significantly raises suicide risk for household members.
  • In close encounters, a weapon can be taken and used against its owner.

2️⃣ Awareness and Planning Come First

  • Most real-life threats can be avoided by staying alert and identifying danger early.
  • Have a simple response plan: where to move, how to escape, when not to engage.
  • De-escalation and safe retreat stop more harm than any gun ever will.

3️⃣ If You Choose a Gun, Train Effectively

  • Stress degrades accuracy; only practiced reflexes work under pressure.
  • Good training means:
    • Safe handling every time.
    • Drawing, aiming, and firing accurately without hesitation.
    • Knowing what’s beyond your target before pulling the trigger.
  • Accuracy beats power. A well-placed shot is more effective than a large caliber miss.

4️⃣ Keep It Simple: Standard 9mm Ammunition

  • 9mm is the global standard for police and military due to balance of power, control, and availability.
  • Standard-pressure loads are safer and more reliable than “+P” high-pressure ammo in small guns.
  • Micro-compact pistols sacrifice velocity and precision—practice and ammo choice matter more than size or hype.

✅ Bottom Line

A firearm is not a shield. Owning one adds risk unless you train, stay aware, and have a plan to avoid using it. If you are determined to carry, keep it simple: a reliable 9mm handgun, standard ammo, and real practice will serve you far better than chasing “stopping power” myths.

This advice is based on data from law enforcement studies, defensive firearms training, and physics of small firearms.

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