I was taught that If you need more then what your weapon holds, your probably in a shoot-out. I carry so I can get away - alive. I usually carry a S&W Airweight that holds 5 rds of 38 +P. I feel plenty safe with that. If I'm going to maybe need more then that, I carry an XD-9 that holds 16+1. That should be more then enough.

How many Bullets should one carry ?
Just what in the pistol or a extra mag. or speedloader?
What is the safe amount ?

That's It

Double Tap

If I was to carry a revolver or a 1911 I might want to have a speedloader or extra
magazine. But with todays hi-capacity magazines I dont see a need to carry extra.
I will have extra close though. Like in my truck.

I always thought that any more than 5 rounds was overkill...then I started working in Dayton! I routinly carry 21 rounds on my way to work (I carry a XD subcompact 40 S&W with standard(9) and extended mags(12)). Why you may ask? Ok some idiot wants to jack my truck, who's to say his "gang" isn't around the corner? There is an average of a shooting a day in the wonderful city and many are not mentioned in the biased anti second amendment news.

Ultimately I guess it comes to where you are going and what makes you feel comfortable. If I'm going to the store I'll go with just a filled mag, more dangerous area I'll carry more