Well, firearms are safer, easier to aim and with less of a kickback where I'm from. They are also smaller.

[For instance, this one that he pulled from the calf holster that he had, fitting easily in his hand. He stepped up to her and twirled it so he could offer it to her to take safely.]

Safety is on, but feel how light it is. Even Second World War sidearms had some heft to them because of the materials they used.