I am a moderately-experienced handgun owner (have owned four S&W revolvers over last 8 years), but I am a complete novice regarding semi-automatics. I am currently in the process of obtaining my Oregon concealed carry license and my primary carry gun will be my S&W 642. My wife, who is a complete novice on all types of guns, wants to also train for and obtain a carry license, and she thinks she’d rather carry a 380 ACP semi-auto. A family member recently showed us the 380 ACP he carries (Ruger LCP) and she liked it. I likely will also occasionally carry such a pistol when we get one.

I’d appreciate you folk’s expert opinions regarding what type of action (single, double, or striker) you think would be best (safest, easiest to remember, etc.) for someone who is not an experienced gun user. Rest assured that whatever semi-auto we end up with, she and I will go the range and practice shooting hundred of rounds before carrying it.

Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts on this.