Snowgun:

You have asked very good questions. I have never shot someone in
self defense, but I do have some info for you that may help.

There are 2 people, of many, that can help with your questions. One
is Paxton Quigley. Her website is www.paxtonquigley.com, or Massad
Ayoob, a police officer who specializes in the training, emotional
and legalities of self defense. You can read his articles in, Combat
Handguns, or go to his one of his websites. The best one is,
www.defenseassociates.com.

I strongly recommend both of these individuals.

Good Luck,
LB