Posted on 06/17/2009 1:50:31 PM PDT by pinkpanther111
My husband recently purchased a Semi-automatic rifle for home protection. He and I discussed whether we should get a second one for me. I said I would be more comfortable with a handgun. I shoot more consistently with a handgun. So the obvious next question he asked is which one would you like?
I am not sure which one would be the best for me. I know I want semi-automatic beyond that I am not sure which features I should look for.
So I thought I would ask here; if you were to purchase a handgun for your wife, what type would you get? or Which features do you think is important for me to consider?
I would go to the range with her and have her try a few: too many variables, some not very obvious, to consider.
Short answer: Glock 19.
It just works, small without being too small, big enough to do the job.
Long answer: take a course in armed self-defense, learn what factors apply and how they fit your needs, try lots of options, and buy what best fits you.
If you simply MUST have a semi auto, I’d recommend something that was double action...no “cocked and locked” mess. Something that you don’t ever even need to turn the safety on or off. Grab the gun, pull the trigger and it goes “bang”. No fumbling around with safeties. (I absolutely detest them). Beyond that, I couldn’t recommend a specific gun. Try out a bunch and see what fits your hand best and which one works best for you.
Of course just for my own opinion, I’d say buy a nice used S&W model 10....
When my daughter and I went to the Sheriff’s Department for a handgun purchase license, the grandfatherly deputy suggested a double-action revolver for small women looking for a self-defense gun. Point and shoot, as another poster said, and you’re not likely to need accuracy at great distance.
Home defense? Why did he get a semi-auto rifle? First choice for home defense is always a shotgun. Accept no substitute.
Every CCW instructor you meet will sneer at anything else.
He has one of those too.
Go to a gun range which rents handguns and try out a bunch which interest you.
I was originally thinking of getting a SIG but didn't like the way it shot for me.
Tried out a Kimber 1911 .45 and liked it so much I bought one two weeks later.
The better you like it, the more you will shoot it and thus be more confident in a potental combat situation.
Try the M&P Series from Smith&Wesson. It has a compact model if your more comfortable with a smaller gun. Also, you have a choice of backstrap sizes for the grip. It comes in a variety of calibers and is pretty reasonably priced, as well.
If I might differ, I just bought the Smith and Wesson SWVE 9mm. It’s so similar to the Glock that they got sued over it, yet it was $200 cheaper than the Glock was. 15+1 shots should be plenty.
I learned on semi-auto so I guess I am more comfortable. I am however looking for no fuss, no muss gun. Perhaps I will try one at the firing range as someone suggested to see how I like it.
I haven’t had anyone sneer at my Sig P220.
My wife prefers a single stack 1911 in .45ACP, but you really should try before you buy.
My son-in-law went wrong with a Glock: the front sight fell off.
Smith & Wesson Sigma 40VE.
Got one, love it!
Also own a Springfield Armory 1911-A .45 Loaded model. Too large for concealed carry, but I very much enjoy and appreciate this weapon. Nice fit for smallish hands too.
Finally, have an older model Ruger .22 LR. This is great fun for inexpensive plinking at the range. It is a beast to field strip, and absolutely last choice for personal defense.
Hand guns should always have a caliber that begins in 4 if it is for self protection.
2 and 3’s are best for target practice and hunting small game.
I think that’s the best thing to do.
Find a range that rents guns. Go the range, find a weapon you’re happy with.
Personally, I’d ditch the Auto requirement and go for the Ruger LCR. Its light, comfortable, easy to use, and safe. The .38 is a perfectly adequate round, especially with all new fangled ammo they make in that caliber. If you get a concealed carry permit, it is compact, easy to carry and easy to bring into action.
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