I used to manage a gun store. Of the offerings was a pair of pocket pistols of .25 cal and .22 cal. Buying customers bought the .22 model because of my suggestion the .22 is much more lethal than the .25. We sold a lot of them, was back in the 80's.
before CCW permits were easier to get down here, I sometimes carried a .22 Jennings. it was actually fairly reliable and accurate. I literally wore it out though.
I have a .22 revolver and would not hesitate to use it in self defense should the need arise and I didn't have my .45 ACP!
As for small game, heck yeah if you can hit with it go for it! I certainly will.
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