In the case of backpacking, I couldn't agree more, every ounce counts. I don't think it's silly in the least bit, it's just preference. I'd sacrifice some weight to carry something a bit more manageable. For me, the recoil is felt a bit more considering I'm 5'8" and a whopping 140 lbs.Originally Posted by AxleIke
I'd carry my glock 20 or 29, possibly my mossberg 500 with the pistol grip depending on what I was concerned about (bear, cougar, dogs, people)
My 29 weighs in at almost 25oz empty and I can have 10+1 of some pretty hot loads (200 grns at ~1250 fps). Not 44 mag territory by any means, but if I can get 2 shots off in the time it would take me to get one off with a 44 mag, then I'd be more comfortable with my 29.
Once again, it's all preference and what you are comfortable with.
The key to any firearm is proficiency. I can get a 500 S&W, but if I can't hit the side of a bar with it, it won't do much good at all.