Hello from the mountains of Virginia!

[Irishreign]

I'm a senior who is looking to purchase her first gun. Basically want it for home self defense. I have to consider arthritic hands, to boot. I have shot when I was a youngster...last time was probably 50 yrs ago, so I treat myself as a beginner.

I believe I want something I can also use as CCW. Carrying is an issue, too, as I am a heavy woman, and I don't wear belts. I have been considering an ankle holster for comfort and convenience...and Yes! I can reach my ankles comfortably!! )

At the moment I am looking at the S&W 442, or 642 airweight 38 SPLs...and also the Ruger LCR...considering the 357, so that I can load those at home, and possibly just 38s when carrying.

I know there will be lots of different opinions, and I look forward to hearing them, so that I make a good, well informed decision as to which gun I purchase.

Thanks for listening...and now I will hopefully be able to listen to many of you for advice and suggestions!

Irish

 

[arjay]

Those seem reasonable.Take a look at the model 60 too.Currently comes in 357 ,but 38s can be shot in it. A steel framed j frame shooting 38 specials is fairly easy on the hands.

 

[Irishreign]

Thanks

Thanks, Arjay.

Didn't expect any response so soon, but this is great. I will definitely check that out...easy on the hands is an attraction!

Irish

 

[novalty]

Greetings from Maine. Welcome aboard!

 

[1scooter]

Greetings, from the Shenandoah Valley, near Staunton. I've got a couple of 340PD's, with CT. Very light which I like, but pricey.
They are wonderful guns.
Hope you enjoy the forum, You should get a lot of responses, and the best people in the world are here with usefull info, I've learned so much here.
Regards,
JOHN

 

[S&W Oldtimer]

Welcome from Southwest Va.

 

[deralte]

Irish, welcome from North Carolina. See if you can find a range or gun store that will let you try different models to help you decide.

 

[Irishreign]

Thanks so much!

 

[Irishreign]

Thank you, Roger

 

[Irishreign]

You up in the panhandle, Moondawg? I lived down in Central FL for 26 yrs...came up here to VA end of '07.

 

[bobf]

Hello Irishreign welcome

I recently helped a family friend find a replacement for her gun she is 80 now and couldn't pull the trigger on hers.

After trying many guns she picked the S&W Bodyguard .38. It was easier for her to operate and she could shoot it like she used to.

I grew up in SW Va and now live in the Panhandle.

Bob

 

[pawncop]

Welcome from Texas Irishreign. Great forum for all things S&W, have fun, learn lots, share what you know.

We have all gone through the same process. What is the best gun for me.

One thought - the joy is in the quest.

Best of luck in your quest.

 

[Irishreign]

Good to hear from you all...I ended up buying a Ruger LCR .357, and is it sweet! My brother found it at his local dealer, who happens to be a retired Ruger employee with his shop in the same town as the Ruger factory. My brother got a really good deal on it...one I just couldn't pass up.

Tried to upload a photo...but don't know if it worked or not...we'll see when I hit "submit."