The role of handguns

Most defensive needs for a handgun are in darkness, within 12-14 feet, occur with little warning, and only are won or lost in a couple of seconds. The nature of the problem also suggests that the defender will be unlikely to use the sights. Since an attacker no further than 12-14 feet could easily pounce before the defender can shoot, the defender may need one hand to deflect the incoming attack. This may be especially true if there are multiple attackers.

With this definition of the problem, it seems to me that either a revolver or auto can serve equally well.