There are several locations now where you can not only learn how to use a pistol or handgun, but you can also get a license/permit to carry one concealed. There are a couple extra pistol training classes you can take after you have learned how to use your handgun/pistol properly and safely. One of these alternative classes teaches you how you can still use your gun as a weapon even if you are out of bullets. Caution: these are survival-type classes and should be viewed as such.

Use the Butt End to Strike

If you are close enough to someone to hit them with the butt end of your gun, you can use it this way. It is important to note that you should not attempt this unless you are sneaking up behind a perpetrator or the perpetrator is without a gun or knife of his/her own. The butt end of most handguns and pistols is hard enough and heavy enough to duplicate the blows delivered with a billy club, so keep that in mind as well if you choose to use your gun this way (or find yourself in a position where you have to use it this way).

Pistol-Whipping

This maneuver delivers some serious force and damage to the face. You should only use it when you are completely out of bullets, out of options, and likely to get killed if you do not do something. The strike takes place with your gun in your hand, as though you are going to shoot. Put your whole body into the upper body swing, arcing the arm and the armed hand forward and toward your assailant's face. Do not let go of your pistol/gun as it makes contact with your assailant. Be prepared to accept the possibility that your gun may cut, scratch and leave your assailant stunned and in pain. This may give you just enough time to grab his/her weapon and/or escape.

Projectile Hits

Lastly, your weapon can be used as a projectile. In this fashion, it can buy you a few seconds to get away, since the assailant or perpetrator may either try to see what you threw at him/her or try to recoup the gun to use on you. You do run the risk of the perpetrator/assailant just chasing you regardless of whether or not your thrown hand weapon hits the target, but that is a calculated risk you may have to take in the moment. If necessary, you may also throw the gun as a distraction, using its landing noise as a means to distract someone with a weapon before racing in the opposite direction. Do not expect to get your weapon back without filing a police report.