I always have the mini .38 on me for protection. We live in a low crime but rural area and really need to use it more for vicious animal attack/killings of humans than anything else. There is a bit of crime--so, no it is never safe though, just few and far between.

I used it on a rabid squirrel-it was it or me!! I am scared of shots and sick squirrels!! I did have to use it twice in regards to humans, but did not kill anyone!!!!lol!

The first time I had to use it was against my husband many years ago when he was physically abusive. He has since gotten help and has not abused me since. I shot directly at the floor beside him and told him if he ever abused me again it would be the last time!! And yes-MT has a self-defense law!

The second time I had to use it was a burglary in process. I was staying with my friend's elderly mother while my friend was out of town. I got to her house, unlocked the door and prepared to put our groceries away when I noticed there was silence after she said hi--no answering my questions. Thinking she did not hear me, I went into the living room and two kids were holding a knife to her cat's throat, the little lady cannot walk and has had her kitty for 20+ years--she also has a mild form of dementia and is very gullible). I had my hand in my jacket pocket and was able to pop my safety and put a bullet through the floor--and my favorite jacket!! The kids took off and we filed a Police report--they ended up burglarizing four other places, got caught and sent away. In this state, you are legally able to shoot an intruder in your house--no repercussions if they are fully in the door and there are obvious signs of potential harm.Luckily the police know me through my business and the procedure to retain my firearm & permit was very simple.