I can do ok with a pump shotgun, deer rifle (sniper), revolver, bow and arrow, or a good old winchester 3030. A 7.62 x 39 is a good round if I ever find an AK or SKS . Drums are illegal here, so it is the 7, 5 bolt, or 12 in a mk2. 15 in a pistol, In a given situation i will not last very long anyway.
Pistols are easier to conceal, or carry, but have less firepower and accuracy compared to a long gun. A pistol or revolver is my usual choice for taking on a weekend drive. Goes in the trunk or glove box, depending. Wife usually doesnt know, only once got scared by a bear warning sign and asked if I had put one in. I had.