Not a much of a fan of Rowling, but she does not deserve such criticism. All she did was state the facts. She cannot be blamed for not supporting a radical, ludicrous, narrowly absurd position.

Some of these replies are nonsense. A simple .22 pistol or rifle should seriously be considered, or at least some sort of shotgun. Even taking into account the added weight and eventual exhaustion of the ammo supply.

Excellent suggestion. Also essential if you are in a real nasty situation and you have to stitch a wound and have nothing else to use. Not to mention sewing buttons back on.