re: Pistol Recommendation for Women

quote:

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M&P 40 with a laser light (seems like a illogical choice for someone that's never handled a gun before, but I won't argue with anyone that has taken this much time). Got it. Thanks.

I was planning to work them up to a larger caliber, not start with a 40, but I am a novice, so I am glad I asked.

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Your first reaction is very valid -- a .40 is almost always a poor choice for a new shooter. Based on the students I've taught, the .40 is responsible for inducing flinching into more shooters than any other common CCW caliber.

Today's good 9mm ammo (like Federal HST) will do everything you need a SD round to do -- if she can hit her target.

There is some wisdom associated with the concept of letting her pick the gun ----> as long as her choices are limited to reliable (Tier 1) handguns. Too many women (and guys) want a tiny gun that will fit in her pocket. Or a gun that's cute (guys on this board usually say "hot" or "sexy" instead of "cute" -- but there's no difference in the mentality. )

A reliable 9mm is (like the M&P Shield) or a reliable J-frame .38 revolver are good choices. But she'll never practice as much with the revolver (they're unpleasant to shoot) as she will with the Shield.

Oh, and forget the laser. Spend that money on a lesson with an experienced instructor and some practice ammo

My $.02