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03-08-2009, 01:58 PM
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44 year old female, 5'7", 138 lb. I haven't had much experience with a handgun whatseoever. I have fired my husband's Springfield XDM .9mm a few times, but I'm really not comfortable with it. It does have the small grips on it, but something just isn't right for me. I have been thinking of a S&W model 60 with a 3" barrel .38 Small Chef's special. I held one a few months ago when my husband was shopping for a handgun. The revolver felt right. I've just never had the chance to fire one.
I am taking a 1st Steps program next Sunday, so I will hopefully be able to fire one or something similar to that model. I do know that I am not looking for synthetic material, but a stainless steel body...I hear the recoil is not as bad.
I am also hoping down the road that I can get my carry permit. I was thinking this would be a good carry handgun.
Any thoughts and suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
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03-08-2009, 01:58 PM
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44 year old female, 5'7", 138 lb. I haven't had much experience with a handgun whatseoever. I have fired my husband's Springfield XDM .9mm a few times, but I'm really not comfortable with it. It does have the small grips on it, but something just isn't right for me. I have been thinking of a S&W model 60 with a 3" barrel .38 Small Chef's special. I held one a few months ago when my husband was shopping for a handgun. The revolver felt right. I've just never had the chance to fire one.
I am taking a 1st Steps program next Sunday, so I will hopefully be able to fire one or something similar to that model. I do know that I am not looking for synthetic material, but a stainless steel body...I hear the recoil is not as bad.
I am also hoping down the road that I can get my carry permit. I was thinking this would be a good carry handgun.
Any thoughts and suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
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03-08-2009, 02:05 PM
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If you can shoot it well and like it, a Model 60 would be tough to beat. I'd advise you to stay away from 357 manum rounds in a j frame. If you find one chambered for 357, it will still fire 38 specials as well. Welcome to the forum.
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03-08-2009, 02:05 PM
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Where in Mn are you located?I have a few J frames,includeing a 3" MOD.60, along with some K and L frames you could try if we are in the same area.
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03-08-2009, 02:06 PM
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Welcome aboard!
IMHO, a 3" Model 60 would be an excellent choice. As would most any "2 - 3" J Frame.
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03-08-2009, 02:08 PM
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My wife is 5-8, 120lbs. She shoots and carries a model 37, which is an aluminum frame version of a chief's special. She shoots it well, and has never complained of excessive recoil. I don't think it is that bad either. If it is too much for you, you might try a model 10. It is a bit less concealable, but easier to shoot well.
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03-08-2009, 02:10 PM
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Welcome to the forum! I see you are 5'7"....you may have long fingers, or a hand that is quite comfortable with a k frame .38. S&W makes a BUNCH of different models of k frame .38 specials. It may be even more comfortable than the model 60.
Another gun to consider, is a S&W 9mm. There a ton of them out there used, like a 3913 (I think). That way you and your hubby can split the cost of buying bulk quantities of 9mm. I hope you have good experiences in your classes. Let us know how it goes.
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03-08-2009, 02:11 PM
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You're really not going to know until you shoot it....it's a very individualistic kinda' deal. Hopefully the program you are taking will allow to fire several different makes and models. Good Luck!
Brian~
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03-08-2009, 02:15 PM
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If you are near a major city, try to find a shooting range that has gun rentals and try as many as you can. A stainless steel gun will help with the recoil, but will make a big clunk if you carry in your purse. The internal or shrouded hammer j-frames snag less. I carry a 649 w/2" barrel, but as it comes from the factory the grips are hard to hang on to. You should definitely shoot one before you buy it. There are different styles of grips you can change to if needed. There is no best handgun, you must find a gun that you are comfortable with and practice with it.
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03-08-2009, 02:17 PM
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I greatly prefer the 3” J-frames with the much easier to see adjustable sights for shootability as apposed to 2” guns. Though I’ve had a 2” 442 in a Kramer Pocket Holster in my back pocket this morning.
My non-shooter liberal, feminist, social worker wife swears by Glocks after two trips to Thunder Ranch. Most of us don’t have the time and money for such training but it’s the way to go if you can.
Emory
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03-08-2009, 02:23 PM
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I do have long fingers, but they are not strong. I think that's why I don't like my husband's .9mm. The slide is really hard for me to pull back, so it freaks me out thinking that something bad might happen if I work it correctly.
[QUOTE]Originally posted by RobO:
Welcome to the forum! I see you are 5'7"....you may have long fingers, or a hand that is quite comfortable with a k frame...
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03-08-2009, 02:24 PM
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Hey Chad,
I live close to New Ulm, in southern Minnesota.
Quote:
Originally posted by 7003006:
Where in Mn are you located?I have a few J frames,includeing a 3" MOD.60, along with some K and L frames you could try if we are in the same area.
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03-08-2009, 03:18 PM
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My recommendation would be a 60-4, 3" w/ adj.sights; they're about the best all-around, reasonably concealable handgun out there.
Next, I'd look at 2" M60's, M36's and/or 640's if snagging a hammer would be a concern. I'd stay away from the 37's; based on my wife's complaints of snappy recoil from such a light gun. I found the M37 a little difficult to control, but nice to carry.
K-frames generally have much smoother triggers than j-frames, so if you don't object to a little more weight and bulk, maybe look at a M65 Ladysmith which also have the advantage of a 6th shot. I would also agree with the recommendation to stick with 38 Spl, rather than 357 Mags, especially if you decide to go with a j-frame. About the only thing more unpleasant that a 357-J would be a 357-J in Scandium or aluminum alloy. Welcome and good luck. -S2
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03-08-2009, 03:24 PM
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S&W 642 J Frame .38 Spl.
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I drank what? - Socrates
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03-08-2009, 03:29 PM
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Quote:
Originally posted by ndtish:
44 year old female, 5'7", 138 lb.
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Need to see pictures
Seriously though, Look at the J frames, but also look at a 3" K frame-you sound perfect for a 3" model 10/13/64/65. You are the same stature as my Mom and a K frame 38 is what I got her (she's 74 ).
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03-08-2009, 03:46 PM
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1) Welcome.
2) Try out as many guns as you can before buying - your opinions will likely change.
3) Revolvers are also easier to clean properly.
4) Don't make decisions based on recoil if you are going to practice a lot. The importance of recoil fades quickly with practice for any gun that you would likely carry. You might want to get a 357 magnum revolver that you like, since they also shoot 38 special and if you wanted to you could carry 357 rounds - just a thought.
5) The last time that I ordered the "Small Chef's Special", I got sick - we look for any excuse to try to be funny on here.
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03-08-2009, 03:54 PM
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JpGrl has carried a model 60 w/ .38 spl. +P for a few years now. Suits her to a tee.
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03-08-2009, 04:07 PM
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Quote:
Originally posted by HOUSTON RICK:
1) Welcome.
2) Try out as many guns as you can before buying - your opinions will likely change.
3) Revolvers are also easier to clean properly.
4) Don't make decisions based on recoil if you are going to practice a lot. The importance of recoil fades quickly with practice for any gun that you would likely carry. You might want to get a 357 magnum revolver that you like, since they also shoot 38 special and if you wanted to you could carry 357 rounds - just a thought.
5) The last time that I ordered the "Small Chef's Special", I got sick - we look for any excuse to try to be funny on here.
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HoustonRick is a lawyer-don't listen to anything he says-still waiting for pictures.
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03-08-2009, 04:11 PM
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None of the layers here can take
photos so don't hold your breath.....
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03-08-2009, 04:12 PM
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Quote:
Originally posted by ndtish:
What would be the best handgun?
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Many would answer, "The one you have with you when you need it," so don't buy something too big or too heavy to actually carry.
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03-08-2009, 04:46 PM
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Quote:
Originally posted by photohause:
None of the layers here can take
photos so don't hold your breath.....
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I waw going to scold you for the typo-but on second thought-layers is good
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03-08-2009, 05:07 PM
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My wife carries a little Kel-Tec P3AT and LOVES it. She also has a Taurus Model 85 (.38spl) and a Sig P239 9mm. She carries the Kel-Tec because it drops into her purse and she never knows it is there (weight wise).
I would prefer she carried something bigger but I'll settle for what she will carry regularly.
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03-08-2009, 05:32 PM
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I think Houston Rick made such a good point I think it bears repeating. Do not be overly concerned with recoil if you are new to shooting. A little practice and the jolt is hardly noticed, if the gun is of reasonable recoil for your stature.
So a .38 special, even in a 3" J frame will not be too much once you get used to it. At some point you may want to switch to the hotter .38+Ps. Shoot it a lot and start with mild loads. Sounds like you are off on an adventure, I wish you well.
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03-08-2009, 06:02 PM
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I'd recommend the J frame S&W's. The hammerless version is a great choice.
My suggestion concerning recoil is: most often recoil isn't going to hurt you, no damage will be done. Shoot your new gun enough to become proficient with it.
The guns with slides usually aren't hard to master but can be a problem until you get the hang of it. (I find it's sort of a 2 handed push/pull motion)
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03-08-2009, 06:09 PM
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Because of my concern with racking issues and the difficulty in dealing with FTF/FTE situations, I too decided that my wife needed a revolver (S&W, of course) instead of a semi-auto. I found a nice 3" Model 65 Ladysmith. The funny thing is, she thinks it was fnr her
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03-08-2009, 06:39 PM
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The 3" K frames (Model 65, 13, some variants of the venerable Model 10 and it's stainless twin the 64) can be found on the used market or via gun auctions. These will split the difference between easy to conceal/carry and easy to shoot.
2" J frames aren't a terribly forgiving gun to learn with, despite being easy to carry.
Though curiously, my old friend Dan was 5'7" and only about ten pounds heavier. He had decent results with a .40 caliber Glock 23.
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03-08-2009, 08:09 PM
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Quote:
Originally posted by ndtish:
Hey Chad,
I live close to New Ulm, in southern Minnesota.
Quote:
Originally posted by 7003006:
Where in Mn are you located?I have a few J frames,includeing a 3" MOD.60, along with some K and L frames you could try if we are in the same area.
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Just bring the guns...flowers might make things a bit awkward.
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03-08-2009, 08:18 PM
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Try with both the J-frame (small 5-shot 38) and the K-frame (larger 6-shot 38).
I have shot with several women in your situation and found that a gun fits their hands differently than men. Almost all of them found the large grip to work better because their fingers are longer in relation to the palm of the hand.
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03-08-2009, 09:46 PM
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Enough said above.
Welcome to the forum. Stick around, Caj doesn't bite.
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03-08-2009, 11:11 PM
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My wife (also 5'7") has a S & W Model 36-1 3" .38 Spl. (J Frame) revolver. She handles and shoots it very well. Any "J" Frame should be a great handling revolver for you.
Also welcome to the Forum.....
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03-09-2009, 02:34 PM
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WOW! What great advise from everyone! I'm really excited now and hoping the shop will have lots of options for me to try out! Thanks to all!
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03-09-2009, 03:12 PM
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Hi,
Welcome to the forum.
My wife had a similar dilemma a year ago, when she decided to finally arm herself.
I let her try a bunch of my autos and revolvers. She ruled the autos out right away, and shot my 3" Model 65 S&W best. THE 3" BARRELS MAKE 'EM A LOT EASIER TO SHOOT ACCURATELY, and it lessens the recoil too.
THEN . . . I found her a gun that turned out to be her dream revolver.
Like the Model 60 3" you are considering, it was also a 3" barreled J-frame that looks like the M60, but in blue.
It is the Model 37 "Airweight." At about 15 oz. vs. probaby 23 oz. for the Model 60, it will kick a little more but she found it no problem at all.
She loves it's small size, light weight AND the excellent accuracy she gets with the 3" barrel.
Frankly, I think a Model 60 would be an excellent choice for you!
Nothing is as simple under stress to shoot as a revolver . . . in computer terms . . . just "point and click!"
It should ALWAYS go bang, whereas sometimes a semi-auto pistol can jam due to "limp-wristing" or some sort of jam. Under stress, if the slide is locked partially back you'll never notice it until it is too late.
You should really love your Model 60 3" . . . and most of all, you'll become very confident using it with very minimal time and effort!
Good luck!
Tom
PS: I gave it to m;y wife on her birthday . . . exactly one year ago today! The M37 was also made in the year she graduated from high school . . . a vintage gun in great shape, like her! I thought that was quite cool, and so did she!
She shot it so well at her class, that her instructor (an instructor for the Sheriff's department) told her she shot well enough to be a cop! Not bad for a novice . . . and she had the best targets of the day too!
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03-09-2009, 05:26 PM
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I lived in the Twin Cities for 10 years and used to take motorcycle trips to the Schell brewery in the fall and go listen to the glockenspiel in town. ---- Any how -----
There are two gun shops in the cities called Bill's Gun Shop. They both have indoor ranges and a wide selection of rental guns. One is in Robinsdale the other is Circle Pines.
They should be able to help you find what you need, just don't let them talk you in anything.
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03-09-2009, 07:14 PM
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You just can't beat the alternative. 2.5" K-Frame Model 66
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03-09-2009, 07:31 PM
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Inexplicably unmentioned as yet, is the wide variety of aftermarket revolver grips that can change the shape, "softness", texture, etc. of any given gun's grips to-or-from punishing to forgiving. If, as suggested, you take a hard look at J-frame revolvers, or any revolver, don't rule it out until trying it with soft, cushiony, rubber grips, or other materials and shapes that may be better suited to your hand's geometry than the stock factory offering. I once thought, for example, that I needed a soft rubber grip on my .357 J-frames. Then, I discovered that, instead, I really preferred the Craig Spegel designed "Boot Grip" with which I've subsequently and expensively equipped some J-frames. Trial is way cheaper than error --- shop around!
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03-09-2009, 09:53 PM
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I'd suggest a Glock 26. You get about the same size, but many more rounds. And it's accurate to boot.
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03-13-2009, 08:13 PM
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Why hasn't anyone suggested the .32's? Far less recoil for a newbie, and effective enough if pointed at the crotch of the perp. Much easier to develop confidence with.
Remember, this is for a little lady who will most likely use it for the purpose of discouragement.
And remember, the savage uncivilized men who prey on unsuspecting women also live with savage uncivilized women in their 'hoods. They learn at a young age not to mess with a determined woman.
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03-13-2009, 08:21 PM
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How about a nice fully tricked-out custom 5-inch 1911 from Wilson, Ed Brown, or Les Baer? Add laser grips and a little frame-mounted flashlight.
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03-13-2009, 09:08 PM
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Quote:
Originally posted by KeithCarter:
Why hasn't anyone suggested the .32's? Far less recoil for a newbie, and effective enough if pointed at the crotch of the perp. Much easier to develop confidence with.
Remember, this is for a little lady who will most likely use it for the purpose of discouragement.
And remember, the savage uncivilized men who prey on unsuspecting women also live with savage uncivilized women in their 'hoods. They learn at a young age not to mess with a determined woman.
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5'7 and 138 is roughly the same size as the "average" GI or Marine in WW2. Better prenatal care and a diet with more meat has made folks taller and bigger since then. The .32s currently exist in the niche of "hide out gun" (Seecamp, KelTec), relic (PP, Model 30 and 31), ultra light revolvers - 432/431 recently out of production, and the heavy for size .327 Mags (SP101 and a new and somewhat less weighty SW product or two). Ammunition tends to be rather poorly distributed and many .38s will give a similar recoil pulse if loaded with wadcutters.
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03-13-2009, 09:26 PM
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I am male, 45, 5'6". My favorite ones to carry are either my S & W 60-10 .357 with the 3" barrel or my model 13-4 .357 with the 3" barrel and round grips. I like that both are small, easy to carry, balance nicely, and can be loaded with .357 or .38 Special.
I also agree with Houston Rick, it helps to try out as many as you are able to.
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03-13-2009, 09:52 PM
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Hi, and welcome to the Forum.
Lots of good advice here. I could only agree with the opinions about a J-franme .38, but with this caveat: shoot, shoot, shoot -- a lot!
Why? well, recoil becomes manageable the more you shoot and become familiar with handguns, for one thing. For another, you might be surpised at what you end up liking a lot.
Example: it isn't a CCW arm by any means, but unless I am shooting regularly, Mama Smithfan, my go-anywhere bride of the last 43 years. can shoot my M-29 Classic in .44 mag better than I can. Neither of us is particularly bothered by recoil, but she has a lot better hand-eye coordination.
Just my nickel's worth...
But do try as many arms as you can in various sizes and calibers, and practice as much as you can. It will make a serious difference.
Bill
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03-13-2009, 11:36 PM
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Quote:
Originally posted by Smithfan:
Hi, and welcome to the Forum.
Lots of good advice here. I could only agree with the opinions about a J-franme .38, but with this caveat: shoot, shoot, shoot -- a lot!
Why? well, recoil becomes manageable the more you shoot and become familiar with handguns, for one thing. For another, you might be surpised at what you end up liking a lot.
Example: it isn't a CCW arm by any means, but unless I am shooting regularly, Mama Smithfan, my go-anywhere bride of the last 43 years. can shoot my M-29 Classic in .44 mag better than I can. Neither of us is particularly bothered by recoil, but she has a lot better hand-eye coordination.
Just my nickel's worth...
But do try as many arms as you can in various sizes and calibers, and practice as much as you can. It will make a serious difference.
Bill
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Same here. My best shooting is with my H & K USP in .45. Next after that is my 686 +. It is a 3" barrel, but both of those are either big and/or heavy to carry concealed.
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KM
S&WCA 3110 S&WHF 625
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03-14-2009, 07:11 AM
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Quote:
Originally posted by ndtish: Any thoughts and suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
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Go shopping alone and buy what feels good to you. With any luck you should be able to find a "Gun Shop" in Minnesota that will be willing to swap grips/stocks around on a revolver and you can get one that really feels and points right for you. If you can find a place where you can 'try'(read: actually shoot) a few different guns then so much the better.
Also, if you decide to take a shooting class - I recommend this strongly - make sure you take it without your other half present. It never fails that the Husband/Boyfriend/Parent always knows more than the Instructor.
A Model 60-4 would be a good place to start. I suggest you also start shooting light target loads before going on to the heavier self defense ammo. But, you need to shoot a good amount of the "Good Stuff" too, just to make sure you are comfortable with the gun.
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03-14-2009, 07:36 AM
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Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: On da Bayou Teche
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Quote:
Originally posted by GatorFarmer:
5'7 and 138 is roughly the same size as the "average" GI or Marine in WW2.
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Well aren't you the incurable romantic???
Welcome to the forum, two of our moderators are classy ladies who, along with our other ladies can give you all the good advice you will need. Us guys are just chest thumping a bit to impress you. ( I think the correct term is "struttin'")
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03-14-2009, 10:51 AM
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It sounds as though your tending towards a revolver, which I support entirely. Their ergonomics are almost infinitely adjustable due to the huge number of grip styles. They're simple to operate, and inherently more accurate. Less disassembly for cleaning, and if selected in a .357 Magnum chambering it will shoot a broad number of .38 Special/.357 Mag loadings. (Of which, there are probably more than any other). My Wife and indeed 3/4 of her female friends seem universally to take to a K (medium) frame with a 3" or longer barrel for target range and home defense. And a J (small) frame for carry. If you can live with the barrel being a 3" on a J frame, you'll have a package most find easier to shoot. For the record, my Wife has a K frame at bedside, a J frame for carry.
Call around to ask the pistol ranges if they have a selection to use as rentals. It's the easiest way to try stuff.
WELCOME BTW!
I think the consistent advice coming from all the learned above, speaks well of the quality of advice being offered. This place is something, isn't it!
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Tags
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1911, 327, 357 magnum, 3913, 640, airweight, ccw, glock, j frame, k frame, k-frame, ladysmith, m36, m60, m65, model 10, model 29, model 37, model 60, model 65, model 66, savage, scandium, seecamp |
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