After several encounters with armed crooks, I finally bought a 9MM pistol and started learning how to shoot. That was April 14, 2004. Within two years of that date I had bought several long guns and two revolvers, one of which is a full-frame, all-steelTaurus Model 65 .357 Magnum six-shooter.
With a 4-inch barrel, this is my main carry gun during jacket and coat months of the year, and even in the summer whenever I can find a viable way to conceal it. I shoot well with a 9MM, but I shoot better with my .357 Mag., with either magnum ammo or with .38 special Remington LHP +P. Follow-up shots are not a problem with the right ammo, and I feel confident that one shot will settle most situations favorably.
If I had bought the .357 magnum revolver first, I probably would never have bought a 9mm pistol. I like having both, though, if for no other reason, because you never know which ammunition or reloading components are going to sky-rocket in price or go missing. I usually carry a 5-shot snub-nose .38 special along with either of my bigger guns. I don't think I'll ever stop carrying the grand .357 magnum. It's here to stay.