One other thing you might think about. If you are considering a semi automatic pistol, there are some out there that people make a .22 cal. conversion for. As an example, I have a Glock 19 compact 9mm and I have a conversion for it that I just remove the slide & barrel, replace the magazine and I am shooting .22 cal. ammo in seconds. This allows you to learn on a gun that is easy to shoot and then convert it over to a good self defense weapon.
If my wife decides to carry, I plan on starting her off with the Glock with the .22 conversion on it.
If my wife decides to carry, I plan on starting her off with the Glock with the .22 conversion on it.