Both my wife and I have a BG .38 cal. These are our first and we have minimal experience with other handguns. We shoot weekly, carry daily - I have become comfortable, confident and competent. In my job, the thought of an intentional personal attack would not be a mere fantasy.
My wife has become very proficient, "Grannie Oakley" as she has called herself - I get ribbed regularly.
These may not be the "best" guns but I am not sure that I need better for my purpose - short range personal protection under frightening conditions. I find them reliable, light and accurate with practice.