I hear you. The OP was a little vague in his requirements. There are so many variables it's tough to recommend one frame. You have to consider what round, how big a mag you need, how small a frame you want, do you want DA, DA/SA or a 1911 style. Do you want polymer, stainless, blued, ceramic finish? Will you be using a laser or light? Do you need a purpose built carry gun with rounded edges or is it going in the bedside table?
I wouldn't go to small on a semi auto,the smaller they are the more prone they are to malfunction I also wouldn't go any smaller then a 9mm .Even a 9mm is to small imo but thats a big debate with gun nuts. Stick to a good brand as well.Sigs and HK's are the only handguns I buy but guns like Glock and Springfield are good as well
something really small like a derringer but automatic. small rounds is acceptable as small as 3mm. the point is to have something for last defence at short distance. it would have to hold 5 or more bullets and not need any action to reload it.
i like it but it is still a bit big. is there anything smaller but automatic. even if it is small caliber.
Of the ones on the chart above, I'd go with the Kahr all day long. You need at least a 9mm, and preferably a .40S&W, for real defensive purposes. Remember, a .22 can be lethal, but unless you're touching someone, only something with real energy and mass is going to be able to drop them instantaneously from a distance if you're under attack. Don't rule out another personal favorite, because it comes in three flavors; 9mm, .40S&W and .357Sig, and it has a very narrow grip, which is nice: Plus, it has legendary Sig-Sauer reliability and quality.