New Female on board needs a lot of help!

[sunnyskyez]

Hi,
Ive already stopped at the “Hello” area, I thank you for all of the warm Hello's. Now I have some questions for you males and females who have the knowledge & experience.

First let me say, Ive just started thinking about self defense and a handgun. Ive had absolutely “NO” experience with any “real” gun, other than a BB- gun. I know nothing about guns, ammunition, grams of the bullets, recoil, or any of these model numbers. I am very serious about this, have been studying up on safety. Once I learn how to properly handle my gun, I will probably only go to a shooting range a few times a year to keep myself familiar with my handgun. When you reply, please speak in layman terms as Im still not caught up with all of the new lingo. Remember I know nothing.

I do know from my research over the past 3 weeks, I want a Revolver, Double Action, easy Recoil, easily concealed, and a Smith & Wesson, around $500ish is my budget. I have weak hands, wrists, & arthritis in my trigger finger at the first joint, (figures, some days it doesn’t hurt at all). I plan on learning how to shoot with my left hand as well. As a kid I would bat both left and right handed playing softball. I guess the easy Recoil is a big deal as well as easy trigger pull. Of all the revolvers Ive researched, I keep coming back to the Bodyguard .38, I like the look, (yeah that’s pure female) the laser sight and Ive watched some YouTube vids on its performance. I don’t need a pink gun, or shinny gun.

I keep going back to the recoil, I don’t want something that will break my wrists but I just don’t understand enough about the size of ammo that causes such recoil. Of course If I do have to use it in self defense, I don’t want the person to get up and laugh at me. Ya know what I mean?

Ive also read that perhaps a lightweight gun such as the J-frames may have more recoil than the heavier frames. Is that true? Is there a ammunitions list of what the number of grams and power behind them are, what types of guns they are used in?

One more thought, I know you need to go and try these out to get the right fit, however in my area there are no rentals and only one range is at a gun shop 24 miles away from me. That one range said if I buy the gun from them they will give me a lesson on shooting.

So these are just some of the questions I have right now, and hopefully someone will be able to help me. I don’t take this lightly, and I feel Ive come to the right place for well experienced advice. I will thank you all in advance for any and all advice you can share with me. Sorry to take up so much time with a lot of verbage.

Have a nice weekend. Sunny

[OKFC05]

I'd suggest you start with an NRA Basic Pistol course, even if you have to drive 150 miles to it. The course should have several different handguns to try, and you will get the "gun lingo" to discuss such things.

Then I'd try several different guns, again even if you have to drive 100 miles to do it.

Then pick out the kind of gun you want. Trying to get us to pick out your gun for you is worse than getting us to pick out your clothes for you.

I'm an NRA and CCL instructor, and am aware of the pitfalls of buying a gun before you learn to shoot and begin to understand your own capabilities and desires. Inexperienced ladies want the cute little gun, and the guy wants them to have a belchfire blaster semi-auto.
You need something you like and will shoot at least monthly, AFTER you develop basic skills.
How would your driving skills be if you never took a class, somebody else picked out your car, and you only drove twice a year?

NRAInstructors.org - Portal for NRA certified Instructors, NRA Education and Training

[Big Cholla]

Sunny: Good on you for wanting to become proficient in being able to defend yourself! Given your stated problem of being recoil sensitive because of arthritis in hands and wrists I am going to go against the 'usual' advice of "get a lightweight 38 special and don't look back" and tell you to NOT buy a handgun until you have checked out and fired a S&W Model 651 in 22 WMR. Yes, it is NOT a 38, but I say that you first need to be confident in your ability to deliver second, third and even fourth shots accurately and quickly. The 22 WMR HP is very powerful and devastating to living tissue. All you have to do is to put two or three shots in nearly the right place when required. This handgun is 100% steel giving it sufficient weight to reduce the apparent recoil (which you need). It is not so heavy that you couldn't get real use to carrying it concealed in a holster or in a purse. There are several recoil reducing grips available for it. A gunsmith could 'fit' a .22LR cylinder to this handgun for very economical practice. The .22LR is not going to be real accurate, but it will work for practice out to 12 or 15 ft. And this handgun is in your price range. This handgun is single action/double action. You don't have to use the single action ever if you elect not to. The action could be tuned for the lightest trigger pull possible with reliable ignition.

My recommendation is to get one with a 3" barrel, get a .22LR cylinder, get professional training and practice once a month thereafter. You will do just fine. A recent case has a lady that was able to kill her attacker/home invader with a .22 WMR.

As an old instructor I can tell you that women in general quickly make good to great shooters because they 'listen' to their coach, they already have great eye/hand coordination, they don't have the 'John Wayne' syndrome and they know the poor gun handling they have seen on TV and movies was for 'dramatics' not accuracy. Good Luck, and keep us informed of your progress. ........ Big Cholla

[nebmike]

Originally Posted by OKFC05

How would your driving skills be if you never took a class, somebody else picked out your car, and you only drove twice a year?

NRAInstructors.org - Portal for NRA certified Instructors, NRA Education and Training

...and one of those two times was a high-speed pursuit at speeds exceeding 100mph where you're chasing a guy who just kidnapped your 6 month old baby.

OKC makes some good points. I admire the seriousness with which you are attempting to go about arming yourself. I cant agree enough with the notion that you 'really' should find somewhere to handle (and preferably shoot) several different types and calibers of handguns.

However, if that is simply 'not' an option for you, the S&W Bodyguard .38 is probably a decent choice. The only thing that really concerns me about that (or any double-action) for you is your mention of arthritis in your trigger finger. Double-action revolvers like the Bodyguard (or any S&W revolver) will have a much more stiff trigger pull than other types of handguns. Could prove to be problematic for you.

Smaller and lighter handguns will typically cause the shooter to feel more recoil than a larger/heavier gun of the same caliber when shooting the same ammo. Just a matter of physics. In a .38 special, standard pressure ammunition is probably where you want to start - to see how you can (or can learn to...) handle the recoil. Then maybe try some .38+P ammo (which is higher pressure / more 'power') to see if how you like (and can handle) a little more recoil.

Dont get too wrapped up in bullet weight (which is what I assume you're referring to by the use of the term "grams" -- bullets are actually measured in, "grains"). Typical .38 loads can be had with bullets weighing anywhere from 110 to 158 grains (with some specialty ammo outside of that range). The same holds true for both standard .38's as well as .38+P ammo. As far as recoil, you wont find a whole lot of difference depending on bullet weight -- but will see a difference when switching up to +P loads (regardless of bullet weight).

Now, as far as self-defense ammo -- you'll get as many opinions as there are members on this board. :-) My recommendation is to stick with name-brands (Winchester, Federal, Corbon, Remington, etc.) and if its legal in your area, use hollow points. Beyond that, the choice (and most peoples opinion) is mostly academic and often based on personal bias rather than real-world data of any kind.

That being said, my personal preference for a self-defense load in a standard pressure .38 is the Federal 125gr "Nyclad" and for a +P, I like the Speer Gold Dot 135gr+P.

Hopefully that helps some... and dont be afraid to ask anything that comes to mind. The folks around here are a pretty decent bunch. :-)

Take care and good luck!!!

[BobR1]

The Bodyguard is a very good choice. Four versions:
Model 49 Blued Steel
Model 649 Stainless Steel
Model 438 Airweight Black Finish
Model 638 Airweight Stainless Look Finish

The Airweight Model 438/638 is much lighter at around 15 Oz empty. This is a good weight for carrying in your purse, etc.
It will recoil harder than a heavier all steel model. The Bodyguard series have a shrouded ( non snag) hammer that still can be manually cocked.
How you plan to carry the handgun makes a great deal of difference. I can tolerate much more weight in a holster carried handgun than I can a pocket carried one.
If you are going to leave it in your vehicle and in your home, and do not plan to carry it concealed, by all means go with an all steel gun. Infact If you do not plan to carry it concealed I would recomend going up a size to a K frame such as a 4 Inch barrel Model 64, 65, or 66. The K Frame will be easier to shoot accurately, and recoil much less.

Ammo: Most of the Premium Carry ammo will recoil fairly briskly. The wording 38 Special +P denotes heavier loaded ammunition.
Common 38 Special Bullet weights are:
110 Grain, 125 Grain, 130 Grain, 140 Grain, 150, Grain, and 158 Grain. Normally the heavier the weight, the more recoil they will produce. That is not always the case however. Most 110 and 125 grain ammunition will probably be loaded heavy for personal defense. The 130 grain is pretty common plinking weight ammunition. The 130 grain will probably be your best bet in practice ammunition.

I have owned the Model 49, a couple 649's, and currently a 638. I normally carry the 638 in my vest or jacket inside pocket. I carry a Model 64 a lot also in a belt holster.
I normally recommend a K frame 38 with 4" barrel for gals who are not gun friendly, who want a gun for the car and or home. If you are looking for a CCW handgun the 638 is hard to beat. It comes in a 2.5" barrel Model also. Your dealer may have to order it. The longer barrel should be a little more accurate.

Bob

[PDL]

Welcome to the forum.

Take a look at the Cornered Cat site. It's directed towards women and can be a useful starting point.
Cornered Cat

Also depending on where you are, the NRA offers course aimed at women shooters as well.

Good luck, and don't get overwhelmed with the expert opinions.

[scooter123]

Sunny, Big Cholla has given you excellent advice. I'm a 56 year old, 175 lbs. male, who has spent most of his life working with his hands, so I have superb hand and wrist strength. However, many years of cranking the handles on a milling machine and even more years of doing design work on a computer has left me with wrists that cannot tolerate the recoil of a featherweight revolver shooting the 38 spl.. Because of this I've limited my revolver shooting to choices that you would probably find massively heavy and too large to conceal. The plain truth is the Weight does reduce Recoil and you won't have Physics on your side if you choose a small, lightweight revolver in a heavier caliber.

Another factor that is NOT in your favor is that the small revolvers such as the bodyguard you favor have a rather heavy trigger. Shooting a double action revolver well requires many many hours of practice. When I first started shooting revolvers it took me 2 months of practice at the range Twice a week. In addition to that I spent about an hour each day dryfiring the gun to strengthen my trigger finger and develop a good smooth trigger stroke. With your arthritis, I suspect that you won't be able to tolerate that regimen. BTW, if you don't have any arthritis in your left hand, you should probably consider shooting left handed and train using that hand. Another option is to learn to shoot using the middle finger, while it feels very odd to most handgun shooters there have been proponents of this method for many years. BTW, the thought behind middle finger usage is because people can point their index fingers very naturally, so using the middle finger allows you to use the index finger as a pointing guide.

Point is, IMO you really need to find a firearms instructor with a selection of guns you can try out. While it may seem a bit costly initially, you'll save the money you may waste in purchasing a gun you can't use. Personally, I suspect that once you do that, you'll find what actually works for you is not even on your list at the moment.

[Bat Guano]

"I know nothing"--music to an instructor's ears. All too often we get to work with people who "know it all". YOU we can help...

Second the NRA course. Also, Quigley Paxton's book "Armed and Female" is a good book, period.

Handle all the guns you can. Cruising a gun show or two is like going to car dealers but more fun.

I agree with the conventional wisdom here on J and K frames. If I had to suggest ONE gun that is never a mistake, it would be a Model 15 4" .38 Special. As Goldilocks observed, some things are "just right". Grips are not an issue as you can change them easily and often. Even as a beginner's gun it's a good one, and you really never outgrow it either. My #2 suggestion would be a Model 60 3" .38 Special.

Actual shooting is simple: just align the sights on whatever you want to hit and cause the hammer to fall without disturbing the alignment. NOTHING ELSE MATTERS. (I said it was SIMPLE; I didn't say it was EASY as I still have to work at it just like everyone else. We just get better at it over the years...)

You will find a lot of help here if you make some effort and just ask. Good luck. Make sure to have fun.

[Harry58]

Always remember that safety is your 1st priority. If you do nothing else, learn & practice the rules for safe gun handling all the time.

As others have stated, it is important to try a few guns out at the range before you decide even if you have to drive 100 miles. It will be worth it in the long run. I would also suggest 38 special. Start with the 130 grain fMJ target ammo. These are loaded pretty weak. The recoil isn't bad, & it should not hurt you. If you like it, then, you can try some defensive ammo like the 125 & 158 grain hollow points. I would not choose to go with 22 caliber unless you really can't stand to shoot the 38 special. I would also stick with ammo made by the big three (Remington, Winchester, or Federal). Don't buy the off-brand or lesser known brands.

If the gun is for home or car, I suggest an all steel K frame with a four inch barrel like a model 64. If it is for concealed carry, I would try the all steel J frame with a three inch barrel like a model 60. They also make the model 60 & 640 with a 2.125 inch barrel in case the three inch model is too big for you to conceal. Keep in mind that while you are learning you will tend to shoot more accurately with a longer barrel.

You can also try the lighter weight J frames, but the felt recoil will be worse with them.

Most (maybe all) the S&W double action revolvers are not going to have an easy trigger pull. It will take practice to shoot well. But, there are a lot of good people on this forum who will help with advice as you progress.

[Shadow1006]

She might do well with the "The Governor" 410ga/45ACP/45Colt revolver.

[ImprovedModel56Fan]

Originally Posted by Shadow1006

She might do well with the "The Governor" 410ga/45ACP/45Colt revolver.

Yeah, so will her doctor, if she ever gets one.

As far as advice on specific choices, Big Cholla gave VERY good advice. It is also possible that a 49 or 649 or a used Model 10 will work very well, with standard-pressure ammo. This is hard to tell for sure without firing the guns involved. Without even getting your hands on one, it can be nearly impossible.

Getting good instruction should be your first priority. From there, you may gain the experience to know what works best for you. Also, be warned that the correct grips (for you) are just about the most important consideration in choosing a gun, and often one of the least discussed, mostly because no one on this forum knows your hand size, and many (including me) know the right answers only for their own hand sizes, anyway. A GOOD instructor can usually tell what is a good set of grips for you if they are on the gun and your hand is on the gun. BTW, while a 4" Model 15 is almost never a mistake for a guy, it certainly can be for a lady. The Model 15 has a square grip frame that limits the choice of grips that can fit it to those which may be too large for some women.

Re-read Big Cholla's and scooter's posts.

Good luck!

[photoman]

If you do end up with one of the smaller, five shot revolvers (J frame), be sure to use a full size (three finger) rubber grip and only shoot 148gr target wadcutter ammo. The combination of the larger grip and soft shooting ammo makes the steel J frames a real pleasure to shoot and the Airweights tolerable.

Another thing to consider, if you end up with a J frame, is install one of the new Apex Tactical spring kits then dry fire the gun 500 or so times. You will find it will be much easier to operate the gun.

[BikerRN]

Originally Posted by PDL

Welcome to the forum.

Take a look at the Cornered Cat site. It's directed towards women and can be a useful starting point.
Cornered Cat

Also depending on where you are, the NRA offers course aimed at women shooters as well.

Good luck, and don't get overwhelmed with the expert opinions.

I second PDL's advice.

Cathy Jackson has a great website with lots of good information.

Biker

[sunnyskyez]

Wow, I knew I came to the right place. I loved all of your suggestions and will keep each close to my heart. "OKFC"-I did find a nice selection of NRA basic shooting courses and they are within 18 miles of me. Sweet! One even has a woman instructor, double sweet! Thats no reflection to you males out there but I need to see how a woman can handle a gun.

I just cant thank each of you enough. I promiss to come back and tell you what Ive decided to get, under the heading New Female on board.

Have a great weekend. sunny

[Double-O-Dave]

Hi Sunny:

Lots of good advice and ideas so far. I have arthritis and injuries to both hands and wrists, so I have had to research this issue myself. As you know, you will have good days and bad. My bad day gun is a S&W Model 432 in .32 H&R Magnum caliber. I have laser grips on it which helps with aiming - especially with the left hand. You can load and shoot lower recoiling rounds like the .32 Long - especially with wadcutter bullets and still have an effective weapon that won't beat your hands up. The Model 432 has a concealed hammer, and the Model 431 has an exposed hammer that you could cock, if you have the time, to give you an easier trigger pull. Also, if you are planning on using a handgun for home defense, i.e. a nightstand gun, you may want to think about a larger K-frame pistol as they are larger and heavier than the J-frame and could possibly be easier for you to shoot. If possible, I'd recommend trying to buy the older model pistols as a gunsmith can, in my experience, give you a better trigger job on the older pistols as compared to the more modern versions. By the way, my late Mom's bedside gun was a Model 64 heavy barrel in .38 Special. She was a little woman - well under 5' tall, and she impressed the local police department instructor at the class they hold for the "little old ladies" to teach basic firearms safety and handling.

Best of luck,

Dave

[cmort666]

Originally Posted by OKFC05

I'd suggest you start with an NRA Basic Pistol course

This.

Guns aren't cheap, not even "cheap" guns. Don't buy something through ignorance which doesn't fit your needs.

Self-defense is serious business that deserves serious investigation. Here in Ohio, you'd have to take the equivalent of the NRA Basic Pistol course in order to get your license anyway.

Taking the Basic Pistol course will give you the fundamentals that you'll need in order to pick an appropriate firearm and to safely use it. It'll also inoculate you against the tons of B.S. that the ignorant will try to sell you about firearms and self-defense.

As important as knowing your firearm is knowing your local laws regarding firearms and self-defense. The NRA and your state firearms advocacy group should help you avoid the nonsense.

[J.P.60]

1. As others have said, take an NRA basic course... and borrow a revolver for the course... a friend or someone at the range are your most likely candidates... maybe even the shop/range owner - if he believes you are likely to buy from him/her.

2. Do not buy any gun without being able to shoot it. The same caliber means very little as each gun reacts differently based upon a number of factors.

3. Once you buy your gun, get someone competent to help you "learn" the ins and outs of that gun and proper methods of shooting.

4. Practice, practice, practice until you become a competent shooter.

[Lee in Quartzsite]

Here is new holster just for the Ladies. Interesting concept...

Flashbang Women?s Holster

YouTube - ‪Flashbang bra holster demo, sexy, fast, and practical.‬‏

[therevjay]

NRA course=good advice. As far as a gun go's, if you've decided you want a DA revolver forget about "Airweights" or "Airlites." Steel=weight, weight=less felt recoil=less pain to arthritic fingers.

[Strato]

Originally Posted by Lee in Quartzsite

Here is new holster just for the Ladies. Interesting concept...

Flashbang Women?s Holster

YouTube - ‪Flashbang bra holster demo, sexy, fast, and practical.‬‏

Oh thanks alot. Now every time I see a woman raise her shirt I'm thinking about getting shot

[cshoff]

Let me add one more vote to the "Find a COMPETENT instructor and take the NRA Basic Pistol class" line of thought. I stress the word competent because not all instructors are created equal. Check the instructor out, ask questions, get a list of references, and CHECK those references! If anything smells a little fishy or doesn't check out, move on to the next instructor and try again.

There is a lot more involved with using a gun for self defense than just merely having a gun, and there are a lot of other things you really need to consider before making a purchase of ANY kind. You might very well find that a revolver is NOT the right gun for you, but you'll only figure that out after gaining some knowledge and going through a series of personal assessments. You might be pleasantly surprised to find out just how easy recoil is to manage with a properly selected handgun.

[grampa p]

Another vote for finding a good instructor and trying different guns. It is well worth the money.

We have a bodyguard 380 not the 38. The trigger is really hard. I would not carry it because it is so hard to pull, even though I can shoot the center out of a target with it.

I have the m&p 9c. It is not too big and is easy to learn.

It is great to hear from others who are willing to learn, and willing to take the responsibility to defend themselves.

[blujax01]

Grampa P, the M&P9C is my wife's daily carry and I'm thinking about buying one as well. Excellent choice.

[Old cop]

Along with the good advise offered here I would add a book that may help. "The Shooters Guide To Airweight J Frames" by Stephen A. Camp. It compares semi-autos to revolvers and light weight to steel frame small (J Frame) revolvers. He also goes into ammo selection for self defense and the recoil sensitive. If you Google the author you can find your way to his book.

[hobby-gunsmith]

I would strongly recommend the NRA certified 1st steps intro to basic pistol. It is the first of pistol courses and it is three hours long. It is geared to the shooter who is a novice and hasn't the clue what gun to purchase. The instructor will advise you of his recommendations. If you log in on the NRA web site, and the link education and training, and find the nearest course to your zip code. There is also a link describing each course. The course emphasizes safety and how to determine your dominant eye, identifying ammo and the marking on the gun to determine the caliber. The members have given you a great deal of information but you need to decide what and how to use it to your advantage. The only way to identify your handicaps is through the course. Also, I would recommend, as the instructor would recommend, a .22LR or .22mag revolver to start with at least a four inch barrel. The ammo is cheap and you want to concentrate on you sight alignment and trigger control. You can dry fire in the garage, with snap caps, elimating the range costs. About once a month, use the range to shoot what you practice at home. Once you gain enough experience and practice, you can advance yourself to the NRA basic pistol course which is 8 hours. My experience is over 15 years as firearms instructor and 25 years law enforcement experience. I currently hold a NRA Police Firearms Instructor certification and in addition NRA instructor with five disciplines in firearms and refuse to be a victim instructor. Most of my students are ladies and the elderly with minimal experience and eager to learn. I start them slowly so they will be able to absorb the information at their level. Take the course and I know you will be a better informed as well a better shooter. Good Luck
Nick

[BillBingham2]

NFOB,

You will find instructors all over the board with respect to how to shoot. They all should be teaching the same approaches to safety. That should be the primary focus of any class you take. There are many excellent instructors, some good ones and some that need some help. What works for you may not work for others with respect to style. Keep in minded a level of discipline is required for handling guns and there are many different approaches to implementing it.

Picking a gun is like picking a bra. It might fit but is it you? Just about any will do the job, but will it do it way you want. It’s the same thing as a car or a camera, a personal choice. Some people can work with any camera given (e.g. Brownie, 4x5 Press, Leica, Nikon) and produce great shots, other people can hardly get something from a P&S (Point and Shoot).

Some people say if it’s any smaller than a 45ACP you might as well not be carrying. These are often the same people who say that their way of shooting is the best way period. For most people just drawing a gun will affect the change in the situation they are looking for. If you are looking to start I would say a 22WMR (22 Magnum) would be my recommendation. Packs a lot of punch, low cost ammo and lots of options in ammo styles and the ammo is small so easy to carry extra and keep at home.

The gun you start with is not the only gun you can ever own. Find one that feels right, that fits your needs and give it a try. I would recommend buying used until you find the one that is really you, then pay for either new or in EXCELLENT condition. Unlike bras, but like cameras you can resell a used gun most of the time for what you have into it, minus a reasonable rental fee.

Don’t rush to buy a gun, like houses there are lots of them out there. Put aside some money for one along with ammo, goggles, and a cleaning kit. Also put aside money for a second class and membership at a range.

The biggest thing you have to do is practice. After that is more Practice. And you know you really should PRACTICE. Think that you will be much better with your new little friend after about 1,000 rounds. Look around for other ranges, not sure where you live but you can find them in most places, though their numbers are shrinking.

For me I love wheel guns. While I can respect semi-autos and all too many of them jam too often for me. I’m not a LEO and while lots of shooting is ingrained in my mind, clearing a round between shots is not. I give up thin-ness and more rounds for simplistic reliability.

This is a great place, welcome

B2

[Dominus_Lex]

Welcome to the fold, tons of good input here please take it to heart. You have overcome the first (and perhaps largest) error most people in your situation make just by posting the question. That is not asking questions and making a thoughtful review of the answers to then choose a course of action. Keep in mind what works for me or anyone else on this site might not be right for you, if not take note (the opinion may apply to you at a future date) and make the call on what you deem correct for you. In the end it is your health and safety we are talking about here.

One though on instruction, make sure you are comfortable with the instructor and the make up of the class. Many women are turned off my the tone of classes (frankly that's a instructors fault) and great if you don't give a darn about the actions of your class mates, but you have the right to feel 100% accepted and comfortable in any training class, if not leave, and request a refund.

Finally, really ask yourself if this is right for you. I know several folks who are very skilled with firearms, but would never carry for self defense. While they each have reasons it is important that they make the choice as to what is right for them and move forward in that manner. While I disagree with them, I would rather they not carry then do so with less than total commitment. For both their well being and that of others.

Oh yeah what they said Shoot shoot shoot and shoot some more... in the end ammo is cheap.

[blujax01]

My local range offers classes targeted to women. From what I understand, they are excellent.
By the way, they do not recommend any adult, male or female, spend $$$ on a .22 to train with until they think they can handle a "real" gun. Male superior upper body strength has nothing to do with shooting a .38 or a 9mm.
Women have the same number of fingers and more brain cells than males. Any "fear" they experience will be quickly overcome with knowledge. Most males experience that same fear but hide it with bravado. Psych 101.

[Patrol dog handler]

Ok, guess I'll add my 2 cents worth too. "The Little Redhead", yes little, she might be 5 foot with shoes and maybe weigh a buck and a quarter, had never been around firearms untill we got together. Her first firearm was a .22 magnum snubnose revolver followed by a Remington 870 20 gauge youth model. Training is paramont importance to a new shooter. The wife and her daughter attended the NRA course for novice shooters and came away "sold" on having firearms in the house. She now has a S&W .38 spl. Bodyguard but keeps her stainless 22 mag in her vehicle. I don't feel she is under gunned with the .22 magnum which carries 8 rounds. Far better to have a gun and not need it than to need it and not have one.

[jimmyj]

Hi:
My Wife and Daughter CCWs are S&W Model 642s (with pink grips).
They practice with Target wadcutters and used standard velocity W_W silvertips.
Two Daughter-Inlaws are LEOs and CCW S&W Model 638s off duty.
They all carry IWB at 2 O'clock.
Hope this helps.
Jimmy

[WR Moore]

There are a few folks with appropriate experiece who favor the J frame in .327 Federal Magnum. It holds 6 rounds & can be used with several .32 rounds of lesser power for practice and, according to them, doesn't have the recoil of a .38.

If you could try this at the range, it may be worthwhile.

There is something to be said for a female firearms instructor. Try as we might, there are just some things guys just don't relate to.

[tgd31968]

I have an older Model 36. My brother has a 642. I have shot both, one after the other with the same ammo, and the recoil difference is remarkable. I am experienced, but after a couple cylinders out of the 642, I am ready to put it down. The weight of the steel frame in the model 36 tames the recoil down considerably.

My girlfriend likes the model 36, but with the factory wood grips, it still hurts her hand due to an old injury, major cut with lots of stiches, to the web of her shooting hand. I put larger aftermarket rubber grips on it, and it has helped a lot.

Not sure how much help this is, but it is my experience.

[williamlayton]

HUMMMMM
Lest's talk about recoil. The heavier the gun the less the felt recoil. I don't like "J" frames--even for myownself. I like big heavy guns.
My daughter is 36 yrs old and is not a big woman. She is also as liberal as she can be without me taking an ax handle to her. She has never been interested in shooting.
She is a counselor at a school for those folks going into crime for a living. She has recieved threats. I sat at her scool every day for a month waiting for her to leave and then I followed her home at a discreet distance.
She asked me to teach her to shoot.
I immediatly got a S&W .327mag for her---she got pregnant and that put off the shooting for awhile.
This spring i took her shooting---I had been giving her safety lessons and handeling lessons at home for several months.
The ay I took her shooting I started off with a K22--she had a blast and soon was putting lead on a paper plate at 15 yards.
I loaded up the .327--even got her some stocks from Esmeralda to dress it up--and she started shooting. Developed a flinch from the noise and we overcame that in about 5 minutes.
I was shooting my M28 .357, a real tank, and I asked her if she wanted to try it. She said yes. I warned her it was going to be a cultural shock.
She shot it--laid the gun down and did a jig. Picked it up and shot about 2 boxes of ammo thru it--squeeling and laughing all the way. She liked it better than the .327 mag---it didn't jump as much.
Long story short--she stole the M28 and posted her exploits, including targets on facebook.
I had to by me another M28----I aint crying.
Today, she asked me when we were going to start shooting this summer. She wants to shoot my Semi's---She is greedy.
Anywho, I said all of that to say, try em all, Try some heavy ones also.
Blessings

[Cyrano]

A point concerning recoil: If you get a 38 Special revolver, practice with the lightest ammo you can find, like the 148 gr target loads. Save the +P (high powered) loads for carrying. If you ever have to shoot for real, you'll have adrenaline dripping off your nose, and won't feel the recoil of anything less than a 105mm howitzer.

A point concerening materials: if you get a lightweight revolver, like a S&W 638 or 642, that has an aluminum alloy frame and a stainless barrel and cylinder, you won't have to oil the ouside of it to prevent rusting. This makes it a lot easier for carrying on a day-by-day basis.

[sunnyskyez]

Hello all,

I posted a few months back asking for advice on buying a first gun. OKFC05 suggested I take a NRA Basic Pistol course. Well Im proud to say I just completed that course. Im not afraid of guns now that Ive fired a couple. We trained on revolvers and pistols. I was using a SW 357- 6inch barrel, I hit the bull’s-eye 10 times! I also tried a 9mm Ruger pistol, the recoil was more than the 357. I also didn’t rack it very well two times and the casing didn’t eject. So that being said, I decided to stick with a revolver for my first gun, less things to fool with. Oh yeah, I found out I shoot equally well both right and left handed with my left eye being the dominant. Normally Im a righty.

I went and applied for my LTC, then went to a local gun shop. The instructors told us to stick with nothing less than a 4” barrel, anything less is an angry gun if you are not used to the recoil. The new guns were a bit out of my budget. So based on the SW reputation, I ended up getting a used SW model 64- 4” barrel- 38 Special +P. The owner of the gun was one of the sales guys in the store. He stated he collects guns and this was one of the many he has that has never been fired. The gun was in really good shape, felt good in my hand, trigger pull was good. I looked into the chamber and the area that houses the chamber to see if I could tell if it was used. Im a novice so to me, it looked pretty darn clean. I took him at his word, I hope all gun owners are honest, I know I would be if I were selling a used gun. At $550, it was in my budget. So now Ive got plans to visit a local rifle range and use this new/used revolver. Im hoping someone there will have a smaller gun I can try to see just how “angry” they are.

I also purchased 3 different brands of ammo, Remington 130 grain, American Eagle 158 grain with lead round nose, and Remington 38sp +P 125 grain hollow points. The first two were $20 ea, the third was $23. I don’t know much about the ammo grain thing, except I think the guy at the store said the higher grain would be less recoil? Don’t quote me on that, I could have gotten that wrong.

I purchased a few more accessories; they were out of cleaning kits but will call me when they come in.

I wanted to come back and tell you all what I decided on and to thank you all for your guidance. I hope I never have to use this gun except at a range, but I know I feel better having it.

I will be back to read up on instructions and how toos here. You guys ROCK!

Sunny

[growr]

As and instructor myself for over 20 years I have to agree totally with OKFC05's post. Hard to get any better advice. Find, and then take the NRA Basic Pistol class as soon as possible. This will be invaluable to you in many ways.

My advice to new students is to go to as many stores as possible and handle as many different firearms as possible. Bring a small notebook and take note of the top three in each store that seem to fit YOUR hand the best. Take note of the ones that keep showing up...
Then if possible, try to actually live fire the top three choices. You will sometimes find that a gun that fits well in the store doesn't always do the job for you.
I like to use the analogy of shoes, especially for lady students. When was the last time you put on a pair of shoes that really FIT your foot well?
You knew it and so did your foot. However, your shoes that you would go hiking in are not the best choice with an evening dress and vice versa. Also, a size 9 might fit many people but if you foot is a size 7 it won't work well either.
There are many well-meaning folks that will tell you to get a specific firearm without knowing how you are using it or how it fits YOU. Don't fall into that trap.
Find what fits YOUR hand and your experience during live fire is almost guaranteed to be pleasant and successful.
Hope that helps in some manner.
Randy
PS. Sorry I didn't notice your post on your revolver purchase. You made a good decision with some good guidance. You will have a blast with it for many years to come!

[coach22]

I suggest you take a long look at a Ruger SP101.
2 & 1/4 inch barrel, stainless steel and a very comfortable rubber grip.
It weighs more than the Bodyguard, but unless you are carrying it concealed,
weight is your friend. The recoil will be far less.
Almost no maintenance and a very nice trigger pull.
You can use any bullet weight in 38 Special,
so you could practice and work your way up.
I would also suggest you do not load it with 357 Magnum ammo,
even though the gun is capable of those.
I work part time in a gun store and whenever I recommend the Ruger
and explain why I do, people buy them. When they come in to buy
ammo or accessories, they always thank me for steering them
in that direction.
Good Luck.

[The Big D]

How do you plan on carrying/concealing the 64-4" ?

Be safe.

Originally Posted by sunnyskyez

Hello all,

I posted a few months back asking for advice on buying a first gun. OKFC05 suggested I take a NRA Basic Pistol course. Well Im proud to say I just completed that course. Im not afraid of guns now that Ive fired a couple. We trained on revolvers and pistols. I was using a SW 357- 6inch barrel, I hit the bull’s-eye 10 times! I also tried a 9mm Ruger pistol, the recoil was more than the 357. I also didn’t rack it very well two times and the casing didn’t eject. So that being said, I decided to stick with a revolver for my first gun, less things to fool with. Oh yeah, I found out I shoot equally well both right and left handed with my left eye being the dominant. Normally Im a righty.

I went and applied for my LTC, then went to a local gun shop. The instructors told us to stick with nothing less than a 4” barrel, anything less is an angry gun if you are not used to the recoil. The new guns were a bit out of my budget. So based on the SW reputation, I ended up getting a used SW model 64- 4” barrel- 38 Special +P. The owner of the gun was one of the sales guys in the store. He stated he collects guns and this was one of the many he has that has never been fired. The gun was in really good shape, felt good in my hand, trigger pull was good. I looked into the chamber and the area that houses the chamber to see if I could tell if it was used. Im a novice so to me, it looked pretty darn clean. I took him at his word, I hope all gun owners are honest, I know I would be if I were selling a used gun. At $550, it was in my budget. So now Ive got plans to visit a local rifle range and use this new/used revolver. Im hoping someone there will have a smaller gun I can try to see just how “angry” they are.

I also purchased 3 different brands of ammo, Remington 130 grain, American Eagle 158 grain with lead round nose, and Remington 38sp +P 125 grain hollow points. The first two were $20 ea, the third was $23. I don’t know much about the ammo grain thing, except I think the guy at the store said the higher grain would be less recoil? Don’t quote me on that, I could have gotten that wrong.

I purchased a few more accessories; they were out of cleaning kits but will call me when they come in.

I wanted to come back and tell you all what I decided on and to thank you all for your guidance. I hope I never have to use this gun except at a range, but I know I feel better having it.

I will be back to read up on instructions and how toos here. You guys ROCK!

Sunny

[HeyJoe]

i second a 32 h&r magnum 2" model 431 or 432 revolver. Easy to conceal, easy to operate low recoil, accurate, light. There are some effective 32 H&R self defense rounds out there now from georgia arms, buffalo bore, and federal.
A light weight .38 revolver using wad cutters is also a good low recoil option.

[sunnyskyez]

Hi Guys,
Yes this is my first but I will be looking in to a more concealed gun like the Ruger sp101, which I caught my eye at the local gun shop. I really just want to get comfortable with my new purchase right now before I go for a second one, and money plays a big part of that.

I will be carrying the 4" in a shoulder bag that has a back pocket large enough to accomodate it. Ive practiced with it and it comes out very easily.

Thank you for all of your comments, I keep them all.

Cheers Sunny

[scooter123]

Sunny, I am NOT a fan of purse or shoulder bag carry, too many snatch and run thieves target womens bags and some use box cutters to cut the straps.

While it may seem very old school I would suggest that you may want to look into a shoulder holster and start wearing a fashionable jacket. It's one advantage of the "layered" look so prevalvent in womens fashions today, women have options for concealed carry us men lost when we stopped wearing suits and ties.

[Lee in Quartzsite]

Just a couple of comments. I would suggest that you ask the salesman at your gun store what products you need to buy to clean your new revolver, then ask him to show you how to properly clean your new gun. The ammo you mentioned refer to the weight of the bullet. Usually the higher the weight the greater the recoil. Practice with lighter weight bullets...they are usually cheaper to purchase as well. +P ammo gives a bit more muzzle velocity, but also has more recoil.

My wife has quite a few guns...a M&P9c, the new Ruger LC9, and the Ruger LCR .38spl. Her favorite carry gun is the LCR because it is small, light weight, and felt recoil is minimal compared to the other guns. She also used to carry it in a concealed carry purse, but after a class at Gunsite she now carries either in her pocket in a pocket holster or in a Crossbreed Supertuck holster on her belt. Purses are easy targets for bad guys. You also need a means to carry spare ammunition...Tuff Products have Quick Strips that make it easy to do a reload. Holsters and reloaders are available at Midway USA: Shop Shooting Supplies | Reloading | Gunsmithing | Hunting gear — MidwayUSA

Whatever you decide to carry just practice, practice, practice. A lot can be learned from dry-fire practice, but nothing replaces live fire at the range. Have fun....

[arp32]

I second the advice about finding a class that will allow you to try out a few models before you purchase. The Smith & Wesson J frames might be a bit snappy in your hands until you're used to shooting. K frames are a bit bigger, but more comfortable to shoot. Id go with comfort for your first gun, might as well start with something thats pleasurable to practice with!

Lots of different model numbers, dont worry about memorizing them. once you handle a few you can easily tell which frame style it is. Have fun!

[arp32]

Just noticed the dates on this thread! Hope you enjoy the 64-4. I have a 64-5 that's one of my favorite guns to shoot. Excellent gun in my opinion, no goofy bells and whistles to screw up under stress!

[sunnyskyez]

Keep all those suggestions coming, Im checking them all out. Thanks.

[rpbcab]

Congratulations on your purchase. There is some really good information on this forum and some people with great knowledge and advice. I admire how you went about your gun experience, investigating, asking questions and getting training. If more people followed your example there would be a lot more experienced safe shooters around. Keep up the good work. I don't have any advice to give, all the good stuff has already been said....

[1jimmy]

lots of good advice so far and from what you say your putting yourself in the right direction. nra course and try many different guns is what you need to do. nobody but you can pick the right gun for you. lightweight revolvers do have a lot of recoil and traditionally have a hard trigger pull. heavier revolvers usually have less recoil but now you get into big and bulky. try some semi autos, but stay away from the so called mouse guns which are pocket size , and have hard triggers. ex: s&w 380, ruger lc9, kahr pm9. etc. imo you need at least a 38 caliber for decent stopping power but it is mostly only available in revolvers. my suggegestion is and i know you said smith and nobody can come close to making a better revolver of which i have many, however try a glock model 27, its a forty caliber with plenty of stopping power and size and weight is about the same as the small revolvers, the trigger pull is about half what it takes in a revolver, can carry 10 or more rounds and the recoil is not that bad. as far as the range problem find some friends with guns and go with them most guys at the ranges i go to don't have any problem swapping off guns for others to try. keep focused the way you are your approaching this, its the right way. hope this helps!

[celticfisherman]

Originally Posted by Lee in Quartzsite

Here is new holster just for the Ladies. Interesting concept...

Flashbang Women?s Holster

YouTube - ‪Flashbang bra holster demo, sexy, fast, and practical.‬‏

Thank you for that. I just sent that to my wife. She has just gotten her CCW and we've been discussing the best way for her to carry. We have 4 kids so purse carry is not as good as with some people. And it makes everything difficult.

[230therapy]

Hi Sunny!!

What city are you near?

Now that you've taken your first course, it's time to consider more extensive training. The first thing to remember here is that you are now likely to develop bad shooting habits. It is very important that you have someone review your shooting in person and correct mistakes. For now, you should focus upon trigger control and grouping well at 3, 5, 7, 10, 15 and 25 yards. Good groups mean you are doing something consistently (correctly or not). Get help early if you're all over the place or feeling frustrated.

Self-defense is a complex topic. Some of the skills you need to learn are:

Running your gun and malfunction handling
Movement
Retention
Basic combatives
Managing the police
Tactics
Low Light techniques

"Running your gun" includes many subskills and does not mean "open the cylinder, load, close cylinder". It is far more than that. It includes rapid fire, the sight continuum, alternative methods of loading, and so forth.

There are many self-defense oriented schools and trainers. Unfortunately, the VAST majority of trainers do not know how to properly run a revolver. A few people still train with them: Thunder Ranch, Gunsite, Grant Cunningham, and Michael J. de Bethencourt. Attending a course by a semi-automatic oriented trainer is better than nothing! Much of it will be the same (tactics, managing the police, etc). Gunsite and Thunder Ranch are quite expensive; I generally never pay more than $400 for a two or three day course. I know these may not seem worth it, but they are because you'll really get to know your gun and learn quite a few new skills. Keep in mind that you are increasing the odds of winning; you can do everything right and still die. Some of the most important lessons are when to shoot, how to handle the police, court, and how to properly practice after the course.

Check out SnubTraining.com. There are videos on reloading and de Bethencourt offers training.

Look around your area for ICORE, IDPA, and IPSC competitions. These sports include revolvers...and revolver shooters! You'll meet a bunch of good people who can put you in touch with trainers or groups to train with. If all else fails, just jump into competition (even if your gun isn't very competitive) to get the experience. It's lots of fun and you'll get to shoot a wide variety of fun targets.