[PapaBear3625]

My advice for beginners or first time buyers. Purchase a centerfire defensive handgun you BOTH like, for the second gun buy a 22lr in the same type, revolver or auto.

Another consideration is to get one that is ultra-concealable, plus a second one with max stopping power. Any handgun that you have on you beats one left home in the safe. There will be times when concealment is the major issue, there will be other times (like when you have to drive through a lousy area of town after midnight) when concealability is less important than stopping power.

[Thane_Banquo]

Another consideration is to get one that is ultra-concealable,

I live in IL. Concealed carry is strictly illegal. In fact, you can get in trouble for open carry on your own property if your neighbors complain.