"..., I would prefer a pistol to a pocket knife. Wouldn't you?"


Not necessarily.... as in any other situation, having a pistol as an item designed to offer me protection would depend on me being well-trained and practiced in its use, and having it available at a moment's notice.
It has always seemed to me that a private citizen, engaged in regular daily activities, (even hiking or camping) is unlikely to be able to access a handgun easily if confronted by a problem. There are studies showing that having a loaded handgun readily accessible creates more problems than it solves.
I 'suspect' that it is the IDEA of being safer and having a possible defense that leads most folks to acquire them. Unless one is really, really mentally prepared to use a gun and practices the relevant techniques, it is as likely that an assailant will get your money..etc..AND your gun (if they realize you have one.)

Yes, I know these are partially speculations, but as I say, there are more stories of folks being injured trying to be a hero than there are of those who managed to BE a hero. (guess which one makes better news and gets reported on most?)

When I was a part-time liquor store clerk many years ago, I was told: "If there is a holdup...give them the money! Don't try anything!" I think that is usually the best advice, unless you are regularly in situations where you might expect trouble and are on constant alert... such as moving money about and/or working in dangerous jobs.

It's not easy to decide, but the decision, to me, is not between a pistol OR a pocket knife, but between resistance or semi-calm behavior designed to avoid violence.