The best practice for home defense with a Semi-Automatic Pistol (my Kimber 1911 45 ACP) is to become a  member of a Club with either Action Shooting or IDPA International Defensive Pistol Association. I have advanced from a wanna be Home Protector to someone who has much greater confidence in caring for my family with the help from my Club; Chester Rod and Gun, in Chester NH. It is not an easy task to become skilled at home or self defense with a Pistol and is a work in progress. It is fun too. Look at the previous posts I have written on the subject.  I will begin weekly shoots that move me up the Curve. We shoot 75 to 100 rounds at each shoot using IDPA rules that include a holster that can be on your side in a conceal mode or exposed with a jacket that keeps your pistol hidden .We do not just stand and shoot, we move and engage the target/threats and the targets move too. This is the most realistic endeavor you are likely to encounter except the real thing.  More next week. Confidence in your skills and Safety is key. Give it a try, you will be glad you did. Ed