While .22 is not a generally thought of defensive round, some do use it. I would suggest if you can find a larger caliber that you can comfortably shoot go that route. That said, I have a cousin in his 60's who suffered sever shoulder, arm and wrist injuries in Vietnam. He cannot handle the recoil of anything above a .22 He has a very tough time completing his CHL test with my full sized 9mm. He carries a .22
Congratulations for realizing your protection is in your hands.
