Pink guns are great, and Tiffany Blue models earn plenty of style points. However, firearms have a purpose and that is putting rounds on target. If you want a particular color, order it or send it to your favorite gunsmith to have it Cerakoted. That works for all guns, but color does not make a handgun right for a woman. Women need guns we can count on to defend our family or person. Guns that ring steel in competition or tear the center out of the 10-ring out of paper when in capable hands, so those were the criteria for this list.
Oh yeah, I only listed seven guns here. Number eight is for you. Leave your choice in the comment section!
By Kimberly Pelletier
Glock 19X
Ok, I’ll admit that this choice has a bit to do with all of the hype of the new Glock 19X, but not as much as you would think. I had the Glock 19 Gen 4 on my original list and decided to switch to the new model. Glock’s first ever “Crossover” pistol, the Glock 19X, combines the best features of two of its most popular and most trusted field-tested platforms. The full-size Glock 17 frame and the compact Glock 19 slide have joined forces to produce the ideal pistol for all conditions and all situations.
The 19X comes in the coyote color with the first-ever factory colored slide, finished with a nPVD slide coating to prevent corrosion. Additional features include the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), no finger grooves, ambidextrous slide stop levers and lanyard loop. Included with the pistol is a standard 17-round magazine, two 17+2-round magazines and coyote-colored pistol case.
| Glock 19X | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 17/19/33 |
| Length | 7.44 inches |
| Height | 5.47 inches |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches |
| Weight | 24.83 ounces unloaded |
| Caliber | 9mm |
SIG Sauer P320
When SIG Sauer sets out to change the definition of a Striker Fired Pistol, it ended up with the SIG P320. The SIG Sauer P320 is the answer to shooter demands for a reliable, durable, accurate, and well made, striker fired pistol for duty, defense, competition, and recreational shooting. In fact, the SIG Sauer P320 continues the modularity options found in the P250 but with improved ergonomics and features. When the very best is called for, the SIG Sauer P320 will answer.
Specifications and Features
- SIG Sauer P320 Full Size G320F9B
- 9mm Luger
- 4.7″ Barrel
- 17 Rounds
- Polymer Frame
- Contrast Sights
- 8″ Overall Length
- 5.5″ Height
- 29.4 oz
- Stainless Steel Slide
- Nitron Finish
- Striker Fired Trigger
- 5.5 to 7.5 lb. trigger pull
- Polymer Grip Module
Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm M2.0
The M&P M2.0 pistol, the newest innovation to the respected M&P polymer pistol line. Designed for personal, sporting, and professional use, the M&P M2.0 delivers an entirely new platform, introducing innovative features in nearly every aspect of the pistol, including trigger, grip, frame, and finish. Highlights of the M&P M2.0 pistol include an extended stainless-steel chassis and a low barrel bore axis for reduced muzzle rise and faster aim recovery. The M&P M2.0 pistol further improves performance with a fine-tuned, crisper trigger, lighter pull and a tactile and audible reset. The pistol, available in three calibers, includes an aggressively-textured grip and four interchangeable palmswell inserts for optimal hand-fit and trigger reach. The striker-fire, semi-automatic polymer pistol is available in matte black or FDE (Flat Dark Earth) finishes, and includes two magazines, a limited lifetime warranty, and a lifetime service policy.
Specifications and Features
- Low barrel bore axis makes the M&P pistol more comfortable to shoot reducing muzzle rise and allowing for faster aim recovery
- Optimal 18-degree grip angle for natural point of aim
- Four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts for optimal hand fit and trigger reach – S, M, ML, L
- Aggressive grip texture for enhanced control
- New M&P M2.0 crisp trigger with lighter trigger pull
- Tactile and audible trigger reset
- Accurate 1 in 10” twist M&P M2.0 barrel
- Extended rigid embedded stainless steel chassis to reduce flex and torque when firing
- Armornite durable corrosion resistant finish
Taurus Model 66
The Taurus Model 66 revolvers are a longtime favorite of security personnel and perfect for Homeland Defense Forces. With a choice of .38 Special +P (Model 82) or .357 Magnum (Model 65), this medium frame, 6-shot revolver features comfortable rubber grips and a deep, lustrous finish. With fixed sights and a custom Single Action/Double Action trigger for improved accuracy and speed, the 65 and 82 are the perfect partners for whatever trouble lurks around the corner. For even more firepower, the Model 66 steps up to the plate with an impressive 7 rounds of .357 Magnum.
Specifications & Features
- .357 Magnum
- 4″ barrel
- 1:16.5″ twist with 6 grooves
- 7 rounds
- Transfer bar safety
- Single/double action Medium steel frame
- Black rubber grips
- Matte stainless steel finish
- Fixed front and adjustable rear sight
- 5.68″ tall
- 1.5″ wide
- 10.5″ overall length
- 38 oz unloaded
SIG Sauer P250
The P250, SIG Sauer’s first modular pistol, offers a smooth double-action trigger pull for consistency. Its full-size frame is ideal for target shooting, home defense and any scenario where shootability and sighted accuracy are of the highest priority. This pistol features a full-size grip, full-length slide, and contrast sights. Available calibers include 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP. Safety features include a firing pin safety and disconnect safety.
Specifications & Features
- Caliber: 9mm Luger / .45 Auto
- Action Type: Semi-Auto
- Frame Size: Full-Size
- Frame Finish: Stainless Steel
- Frame Material: Stainless Steel
- Slide Finish: Nitron
- Slide Material: Stainless Steel
- Accessory Rail: M1913
- Trigger: DAO
- Barrel Length: 4.7 in (119 mm)
- Overall Length: 8.1 in (206 mm)
- Overall Width: 1.4 in (36 mm)
- Height: 5.5 in (140 mm)
- Weight: 29.5 oz (836 g)
Kimber Micro 9
Micro slides are made to the tightest allowable tolerances, with barrels machined from stainless steel for superior resistance to moisture. All Micro frames are shaped from the finest aluminum for integrity and strength. In many respects a miniature 1911, among the most important Micro 9 design advantages is a single action trigger with the kind of short, smooth pull that ensures accuracy and builds confidence. The thumb safety, slide release and magazine release are pure 1911 as well. Standard features include a lowered and flared ejection port for flawless ejection and a beveled magazine well for fast, positive loading. Sights are steel—not plastic—and mounted in machined dovetails for additional integrity. Each Micro 9 includes en extended 7-round magazine.
Ideal for shooters with small hands as well as those who insist on mild recoil combined with enough power for concealed carry or home protection, Micro 9 pistols are the right choice for many applications. Best of all, they offer unequaled Kimber quality, dependability and performance.
Specifications & Features
- Chambered in 9mm
- Minimum size and weight
- Hogue black rubber grips
- 1911-style operation controls
- Stainless steel slide and barrel
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Single action trigger
The Browning 1911-380 — The Right 380
The new Browning 1911-380 is the Right Design, the Right Size, with the Right Features. Based on the John M. Browning’s 1911 pistol design and using the cartridge he created, the new 1911-380 pistol gets it right in every way.
Pretty much everything you want to know about the new 1911-380 is contained in the information and videos below. However, sometimes it is handy to get a second opinion. To read a detailed, third party review on the Browning 1911-380 you will want to go to the NRA website America’s 1st Freedom. The article titled Exercise Your Freedom | A Whole New .380 was written by Frank Winn, Guns & Gear Editor and was published on Thursday, May 28, 2015.
There are some very informative things that come out about the Browning 1911-380 as Frank and others put it to the test. This quote will be of interest to you: “In every test we conducted, on paper, on steel (plates to 35 yards), and through defensive and competitive drills, the Black Label performed flawlessly.”
| Browning 1911-380 | |
|---|---|
| Caliber 380 | Barrel Length 3 5/8″ |
| Overall Length 6 7/8″ | Weight 16 oz |
| Magazine Capacity 8 | Sight Radius 4 3/4″ |
| Barrel Finish Matte | Receiver Finish Matte |
| Front Sight Combat White Dot | Rear Sight Combat White Dot |
| Barrel Material Steel | Checkering Molded |
| Receiver Material Black Composite | Trigger Finish Matte Black |
| Trigger Guard Finish Matte Black | Magazine Type Single Stack |
| Trigger Material Alloy | Trigger Guard Material Composite |
| Case ABS | MSRP $799.99 |
This is not your average ladies gun roundup, but it should be. Women are every bit as capable of carrying and shooting full-size, full-power handguns as the gents.
Interesting article. Thank you!
I am a small-framed, 61-yearold woman who has only been shooting for a little over 4 years.
My first firearm was the Ruger LCRx 3” .38 spcl+p. That revolver was exceptionally accurate and lightweight. Except the grip did not fit my hand well at all. Due to the 3” barrel, it was not easily concealable either. It’s designation is a “kit” gun. I think that is a proper designation. Much to my daughter’s chagrin I sold the LCRx because it didn’t fit my hand.
Then I got an Sp101 2.25” .357mag. I LOVE THIS REVOLVER. It is such a joy to shoot! I carry it with .38 spcl Hornady defense rounds. When I wear a long skirt my SP101 rides just below my knee in a sticky holster ankle-biter. The SP101 is also happy in a CanCan Concealment belly band. This is my favorite carry gun.
But the revolver is bulky for IWB. So I have a Bond Arms Century 2000 with an extended rubber grip. I keep the Bond Arms in my nightstand loaded with 000buck .410 shells and when I carry it in a CanCan band It is usually loaded with .45LC defensing rounds. I wear usually wear the Bond Arms in a belly band instead of the revolver.
My newest friend is a Ruger LCP my husband purchased when he finally decided to get his CCW following the stupidity in the wake of the MSD massacre in 2018. I had never fired a semi-auto before. Now that little LCP is one of my favorites and especially nice in a cancan when Igo for my daily walk. But I am looking at other pocket carry pistols for myself.
One note is that when I carry concealed: the firearm is ON my person. Either strapped to my leg, in a belly band, or in a horizontal holster on my belt if wearing a loose shirt. I NEVER carry in a purse. A firearm in a purse is not under the direct control of the carrier, imo.
Also, because womens restroom habits are different from mens, a woman needs to make sure her carry method keeps the firearm in place and under control at all times.
I love the Glock 42 that my sister purchased for me. I even bought a flashlight/red laser from Amazon with a holster that’s made for the laser attachment. I also own a Glock 19 Gen 4 that’s my favorite gun at the range. Very comfortable in my hand and very enjoyable to shoot!
My grand daughter will be taking her CCL cousre in two weeks & is interested in a reasonable carry pistol. She loves my Hi Standard 22 target pistol but it’s too big to conceal. She does well shooting my Springfield 9mm XDM but has problems racking the slide. She likes the looks of my Beretta Nano but hasn’t fired it yet. There is no way she will carry any one of the pistols mentioned in this article. The writer must think the lady shooter has to be a summo wrestler to carry one of these pistols. Even a 380 has too much recoil for most ladies. I plan on having her try a Beretta Tomcat in 25 ACP with a tilt barrel that doesn’t have to be racked. Maybe a Kel Tec or some other 25 auto if we can find one at a reasonable price. As for the pistols in the article leave them to the men and lady LE officers, or leave them at home in a nightstand. They are inappropriate for a lady to carry in her purse or on her person. Amen.
Mr. Commish,
I respectfully point out that if your granddaughter is old enough to have a LTC, she is probably strong enough to rack a slide — given some some instruction. My 83 yr mother, who holds and LTC, still carries her S&W model 60, 38 sp, and/or her HK P-30, 9mm. She said she would never have an autoloader because she could not rack the slide. She proved herself wrong.
However, some revolvers make a good CC weapons and there are some semi-autos with rather soft recoil springs.
The Commish – you are selling your granddaughter short. First off, with a push-pull movement to rack a gun my wife can even handle her 1911 – but that’s a gun she seldom shoots. What my wife ended up loving after testing a large number of handguns at a local range was the SigSauer P238. Her decision points were larger (.380) caliber, lighter recoil, and ease of racking. Since we bought that one there have been quite a few more .380’s come to .arket that are worth a look – by her – without you intruding your prejudices on HER gun buying efforts. You may not like what she chooses but then you won’t be. using it – will you?
The best hand gun for a woman is the same as it is for a man. Comfortable in the hand, reliable, the most stopping power you can handle.
The size depends on how it is to be used. Range, home defense, concealed…
My older daughter is afraid of anything bigger than a 22lr, and my younger daughter love my full sized 1911 .45 ACP
This article is VERY lopsided toward semiautos and the only wheelgun is a pretty big one that won’t fit in the purse of most Ladies I know and would be pretty tough to conceal otherwise.
For Ladies’ concealed carry as well as for Gents, I’d recommend considering a revolver.
I LOVE my Kimber K6s. Six rounds of .357 magnum in the lightest revolver available in its class, and it’s VERY well-made and a joy to shoot. Easy to conceal, an enclosed hammer so it won’t snag on your clothes or a holster when you draw, simple to use and with a quality revolver you have the peace of mind in knowing that when you pull the trigger it WILL go bang. Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s worth it.
Have your daughter search online for the “Ladies Pistol Project” – a survey by women of handguns for women to use. Not talking pretty colors here – looking at form and function in a womens hands. And not just women who are proficient marksmen but the survey also include women who were new to firearms. It asked a panel to review and shoot various handguns and evaluated the responses based on hand size and overall preference. It comes in two parts – part I was a first overview while Part II was intended to examine concealed carry guns. All opinions are by women and the results speak to what a large group of women find useable and acceptable in a handgun (even going so far as to define a Frankengun based on the features the women liked from the various guns tested)
My daughter is shopping for her first CCW firearm. This article was of little to no use for her, especially since she’s only 4’11” and 90 pounds.
I guess your hubby made up the list of the guns he would want you to have because they are the ones he would like to have.
for a gun the average woman can operate, conceal and shoot, try the S & W M&P Shield 380 EZ.
I’m puzzled by the very existence of the Glock 19X, as I cut the grip on my 17 down to 19 size and have been much happier with it. Now Glock does the exact opposite?? And I’m a normal-size man, with hands larger than those of most women.
The shorter slide allows the weapon to clear a holster faster. I’ve carried both a G19 and G17 on and off duty. I prefer the feel of the G17’s grip over that of the G19 and can conceal the G17 just as easily. YMMV
I cannot believe CZ does not make the list of handguns used for concealed carry. I use a 75 compact and my wife uses a PO7 duty model as her go to weapon.
You obviously didn’t do this shopping list
With a female present. Sorry “most” husbands
And there are exceptions, pick big iron just like
You did. I have seen it dozens of times, hubby
Trading in a new gun HE bought for the little
women. Or she comes to NRA first shot class,
or CPL class with a 3inch 357 magnum!
YES there are females who can handle a full
size pistol…. they are a MINORITY ..by far.
YOU MISSED THE PAPER !
My wife loves her Ruger LC9. Great fit for her and recoil is tolerable. She had to have it in Muddy Girl Camo of course.
No H&K pistol made the list? I carry an HK45C loaded with HDY XTP 200g +P. Easy to carry. Easy to draw. Easy to hit what I want to hit (35 yard shots into a paper plate are easy enough). My wife carries an HK2000SK. Fits well in a Coronado leather purse. Yes, recoil can be a little intimidating with the 40SW, but she handles it well.
What a disappointing list! If you have man-hands, these guns are fine. But, you need to look at small frames, easy access from the grip to safety and/or slide drop and ability to rack it.
As concealed carry guns, many of these have snag points with extended beaver tails etc.
The Walther PPS M2 is a great 9MM for smaller hands. My wife loves hers and is better at putting a grouping together with it than I am with my Glock 17 (Gen 1).
The Glock 42 and 43 would also be great guns for a woman to consider as are the smaller 238 and 938 Sigs.
My wife and I tried some of your choices and others before choosing through Ruger SR 22. The fit, recoil and weight all worked for her and that is what matters in a carry weapon. The Ruger just worked for her the safety features are perfect. It is worth a look. Sorry I am not part of the Browning company, distant cousin only.
Wow – what a list! And not one of those a gun that my wife liked. Her preference is for the Sig-Sauer P238 which she finds easy to use (and that means easy to practice with!) and a very comfortable pistol to shoot. She also finds my M&P Shield 9 OK but not as much fun as the P238. But let me tell you – when we went to Front Sight she was able to put 5 rounds into a 1″ square at 7 yards with the Shield – so she certainly can shoot with either one. As to the content of this article – it seem rather self-serving. I would highly recommend as an alternative article the two Ladies Pistol Project articles from the NRA (both available online) which looked at handguns for women as decided by, well, women. First article covered handgun use in general while the second covered CCW handguns. Very interesting results – not what most males would have expected.
THE SMITH & WESSON SHIELD .380 EZ IS IN THE RUNNING FOR ELDERLY AND FEMALES, AS WELL AS A BACK-UP FOR MALES WHO PREFER TO CARRY A SD FIREARM OF A LARGER CALIBER. I OWE THIS HANDGUN AND LIKE EVERYTHING ABOUT IT.
“Pretty much the whole article is useless.”
My thoughts, too. Maybe a SCCY CPX2 or a Springfield XD-s or XD-m in 9mm……?
As for the current model Smiths, their triggers are terrible and, as a whole, they are not up to the standards of what I find acceptable; poor triggers, rattles, loose slides, rough feed ramps, etc.
I love my CPX2 Ghost Grey with silver slide. Weight is good, draws smooth, good mag capacity and will hit anything I point it at. I haven’t found a brand or weight of ammo it won’t reliably function with. Great gun for under $300.
what? no 10mm in your choice? you can’t beat the firepower
Having shot nearly every gun on this list or a close cousin to it, it’s a great list for a range gun, but not for a carry gun. I own a P320 and love that gun to death, but if I’m wearing anything except jeans and a large winter coat, there is no way for me to conceal it. Even without worrying about concealment, it’s still a heavy piece to carry. I carry a Glock42 as my EDC. It’s small, easily concealed under business or casual attire and light enough it can be carried in a purse without much notice
The new S&W Shield 380EZ looks like a great offering for smaller, weaker, or older users, and people not prone to practice often.
These picks are all over the board and my choice would have been none of these. One of the very popular concealed carry guns is the Sig 938 in a quality 9 mm and the Kahr P9 is another little known, high quality, concealiable pistol that is light to carry in 9 mm.
Glock 26 love it
My wife is partial to her PK380. Plenty for self-defense yet recoils like a 22. She like to shoot full-size firearms (1911 and 9mms, etc), but for carry she likes the PK380.
The fact is most women are smaller and weaker, on average, than most men. And most dress differently than men. I like my P320 and carry it now and then but I don’t think my wife wants to try and lug it. She prefers a 22 mag, and a hit with that is better than a miss with a 9mm. This list is way off. I hope no one looks at such a list and thinks it’s gospel. Go with what works for you.
Common Sense was pretty quick to speak for his five or more female relatives. Makes me wonder how many of these guns they have rented or otherwise tried. I’ve been shooting revolvers and pistols since 1955. It’s true that preferences are all over the map, but this article contains a reasonable selection from which to begin trial and evaluation. My wife, Afraid of recoil, started with a Smith 22WMR revolver. Once she became confident she graduated to the Kimber Micro 380 that she now carries and which I’d recommend be included in a list like this one because it doesn’t have the snappy recoil of the Kimber Micro 9. Sig makes great products across the line and I think the 320 is a fine alternative to the heavier 226 that I favor. Finally, the Browning Black Label 380 is loved by all of my friends who are 1911 devotees.
I commend well-constructed brief articles like this, to be used as a launch platform for getting out to ranges that rent guns and trying as many handguns as it takes to home in on the one for you. What men like me favor probably isn’t what my female relative will like. I shelled out $160 to a pro to teach my wife how to shoot and select a gun – it was money well spent. I’m an expert shot, but I don’t teach women how to drive – I think that wisdom might have preceded the invention of firearms..
Taurus?!? Really?? Okay if you don’t want to hit what you’re aiming at. Why spend an arm and a leg for a handgun that has proven issues (Sig) with their triggers? Don’t get the hype with glocks, yes I’ve shot them even owned a few. Never could get past the vibration and the numb hand afterward. Not a fan whatsoever with wheel guns. Nothing against anybody that likes them. Just personal preference is all. I’ll stick with my Steyr L40a1.
Have you looked at the Hudson H9. I think many people would really like this weapon .
sig 938 , 9mm ,. right size , easy to place in purse , good power , can be had in 380 or 9mm .
Have some of your choices in my inventory for doing firearm safety classes for women. Glock 19, Sig Sauer P320, CCP Walther. I urge ladies NOT put purchase a handgun until after they have taken my course so that we can teach them how to control recoil with weight of the gun, caliber, velocity. Some ideas like “little pistol for the little lady” is not a good fit! The woman needs to pick out the firearm FOR HERSELF and rent it and shoot before purchase! THAT is what I advise! I personally LOVE both my Glock 21 (trigger and grip customized a little) and Sig Sauer P320. I love a double stack, gives me lots to hold on to! Throw all preconceived notions for women OUT THE WINDOW and let her choose for herself with a little information!!!
My wife uses a AR rifle, 5.56 for Home Defense from the bed. Her G-17 from the Kitchen (SHE did not like the G-19 grip). In the car on a trip, she likes a AR pistol 5.56. At the range she use her G-17 mostly, but has a Springfield XD9 Mod 2 Service (4″) that she likes better for accuracy. Concealed carry she has a G-42, a 380, in a belly band.
Springfield Armory XD9 4 inch is my preference. Great grip size, just slightly smaller than Glock and eats anything you give it. HiViz sights and a 220 lumens micro light make it great for defensive situations in the home, my hubby uses an XD45 4 inch with the same sights and light with a Pearce mag extension for a bit more control.
Ruger SP-101 hands down is the ideal lady’s handgun! You can load .357, .38, or +P ammo to make it very versatile. I love the way this Ruger shoots, and you dont have to worry about misfires, and it cleans up easy, will last for generations.
After viewing gun reviews for three years ,it amazes me that it always the most expensive ,commonly quoted circle of handguns ( Glock ,Sig ,Berrtta Kimber) are first in line as if no other manufacturer exist. The Walther ,Ruger , ,Bersa The newer S&W ,et alia seem to be a better choice for cc and defense. Protecting yourself shoud not bankrupt you.
I have to say that this is the most odd article I have ever seen. My wife, daughters, sister and mother would disagree with every choice on the list.
The Glock has the only trigger that is really good for most women that I know and how they carry, but do they really need it enlarged with the 17 frame making it harder to conceal?
Do they really need the PITA SA/DA triggers?
Or do they need the single action Kimber meaning cocked and locked carry meaning no option then a proper holster to carry in?
The same applies to the Browning that is so large there is no need to chamber it in .380 when it might as well be a 9mm
The Taurus is a fine revolver if that large a gun wanted to be carried , but the article can’t even keep the model numbers straight.
Pretty much the whole article is useless.
The Browning is 85% the size of a 1911, tailored to the shorter 380. It is too short in the magwell for a 9 MM.
What conceals easier for you does not matter, what conceals for a lady does. Do you personally use a concealed carry purse? Does it look stylish when you wear it? Oh maybe ladies have additional options for carry that men do not have,
Do you enjoy the role of internet crank?
Why Yes, Yes I do
My wife is pretty partial to her Sig P-232 and CZ 75 Compact. I don’t think there is a right or wrong for carry, either men or women, as long as one is proficient with its use, are able to conceal it, if that’s required where you reside and is of a caliber that will do what you ask of it.
Well said John R. I think “common sense” missed the point NEED is not the issue. WANT is the issue. Women want a reliable, quality build at a decent price. Just like guys do. They don’t NEED pink, or light, or “girl sized” calibers. Or, god forbid, the nasty, long, crunchy, no feedback trigger pull of a Glock. None of the women in my life, (daughter, granddaughters 11 and 13, or wife) have an issue with my Canik TP9SA and neither would Kimberly. Yeah its full sized, holds 18+1, striker fired 9mm that has a bit of recoil. But weapons are subjective. Lets give the girls some credit for being able to select what’s right for them, without being subjected to “girly” standards. Try the Canik Kimberly. You MIGHT like it.
Try this one from H&K VP9SK for crossdraw or CCW would like to see a evaluation on this? May be the Hottest carrying conceal hand gun?
Thank you! 25thdiv
As I was going through the list of guns in the Women Choice for Power article, I notice all these were full size guns and one that was 38 ounces. Now, to me all the guns that’s on the list are good guns for women if they were at the range wanting to learn to shoot or range plinking or competition shooting! The Kimber Micro 9 is the only one I see that a women might feel comfortable carrying in purse or even conceal carry! But I get the title of the article! I know this suggestion might be boring to read but I’d like to see a article that focused more on the types of handguns that are favorable to women to carry, like conceal carry, purse, bra, belly belt! I know a lot of lady’s that tell me they don’t like to carry on the hip, that if they had a choice they would carry in the purse if they could find a suitable gun! But I loved reading the article!
My wife really like her Bersa Thunder 380. Most of the gun in this article are full size and not practical for a women for every day carry.
My wife and daughter both started our with a full size government model 1911 (and just like all Corvettes are red, all 1911s are .45ACP). No one told either of them it was too much gun so neither had any problem with it. As time went on, my wife’s choice for carry was a Bersa 308 (before the Thunder model) and later a Taurus 85UL. My daughter didn’t carry (until recently) but her choice of gun for the range or around the farm was my Mossberg 590. At the range she would run through all the 12ga ammo I had around until I started telling her she had to buy her own ammo. My granddaughter has since inherited the Taurus 85UL (on the range she shoots .38 lead SWCs, but for carry is it CorBon .38+P JHPs)
You just never know what gun a woman will choose if she has the chance to pick for herself.
Finally an article that doesn’t talk about how the only firearm for a woman is a revolver!!! The fact is most women are.capable of handling the same firearms as a man with proper training. My wife shoots a Gen 4 19. I just purchased a 19x for myself and it shoots like a champ. Women who have know shooting experience should find a good female instructor and stop listening to the so called gun counter experts, they’re just there to sell you something.
Regardless of gender, I’m going to suggest the Canik TP9SA, or any of the TP9 derivatives. My wife has no issue with drawing or firing this weapon. My granddaughters (11 and 13) have both fired it, surprisingly well also. The pistol doesn’t care who’s hand holds it. Its a high quality, well made gun. At 740 grams empty, 1037 grams fully loaded with 18+1, its not that heavy a piece, and recoil is more than acceptable for a weapon of this category. Very easily shoots ragged holes at 20 meters and eats anything you put through it. Mine is desert sand in color, its available in 5 or 6 different colors, but no pink. Sorry. The point is, man, woman, boy, girl, or gender confused. Catholic, Baptist or Jewish. The gun doesn’t care, why should we. Females carry, and are quite good shots. Pick the weapon you like, regardless of color. You can dip it to be any camo pattern from flames to hearts to skulls or zombies. Or you can have it cerokoted in a variety of colors and combos. Its still going to function just as sweetly, no matter the color, or who’s hand holds it.
As always
Carry on
.
No ruger American.?☹
.
380 is my gun of choice but this little Kimber Micro 9 is pretty cool, but I have a hard time with pulling the slide to load a bullet, that needs to be easier for us older ladys,
Hey Nancy, try holding the slide still, and PUSHING the gun away from you. My granddaughters both have had good results using this method.
I taught my wife the push/pull technique with her G19. Works well for people who don’t have a lot of strength.
Sig P250 is an excellent handgun, however, it has a very long trigger pull. This may result in a little more range practice than others for proficiency. Of course, continued range time is a constant must for all shooters.
Walther PK380
As I started reading the list, my initial reaction was OMG NO – these are great choices for a DUTY gun but not for EDC.. Then the emphasis (and clearly the criteria) shifted and I again thought OMG NO – now we get Toy Scale Models of the 1911!
I’m an not challenging Kimberly’s list, handguns are a very personal choice and she is certainly entitled to her choices (no matter how strange I think they are), but if there is ANY criteria behind this list I can’t even begin to guess what it might be besides having nice stock photos available.
Don’t look at it from a mans point of view. That’s the problem sometime when our wives are looking for a firearm. We want them to carry what we want, not what’s best for them. The opinion of a another female and also a firearm instructor is invaluable.
Great list! I’d gladly own any of those (and do own a couple of them)!