Originally Posted by Franc Rauscher
I am not gun savvy by any measure. But I own them and have no issues with their use.
I have a 357 single action for home protection. Simple to use and Cathy is unlikely to dump all six shots because of a nervous trigger. This is backed up by a side by side 12 gauge with big shot. I assume one or two shots from the 357 will make happen whatever decisions have to be made in the first encounter of a home invasion.
However, we now both carry money from time to time. We also have a few ex employees with attitude. So, we have decided to go for Conceal and Carry. The 357 is OK but she will need a smaller weapon with more shells in the clip. In the open street, I would assume the faster reload and easier function of a 9mm would be more appropriate. A reasonably aimed 357 will do real damage but after five (always hammer on an empty) reload is a b*tch.
Cathy has been saving credit card points for her's. It's time to go and find one for her and possible for me.
Suggestions from the floor requested.
roadster with a stick
Coming from a old jackass that does know handguns, not from a zealous view but from one of pure function (former 1,000 rd/mo competitor), one and only one way to go for mom and pop: Colt 1911 .45 or clone thereof for you and a Colt Mustang Pocket-lite .380 for her.
The 1911 goes from cheap to wastefully expensive, depending upon your tastes. Google 'Brownells' and have them send you their 1911 catalog #3. You'll get the ideas for one you like and then buy it at a gun show. As for the Mustang, Colt quit producing them during the Clinton years (that's odd), so just search the web and you'll find a nice one for her.
You will find these to be a most enjoyable pair of handguns with identical controls. Handling, recoil, effect and the like will be appropriate for each of you. Don't let anybody try to sell you any other way just because such-and-such brand name makes them hard.
Gosh, you can even dress 'em out to match your his-and-hers beach towels if you want.