What is the Best Handgun for a Lady to Carry?
As a woman, owning a handgun for self-defense is a personal and practical decision. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider factors like size, weight, comfort, and accuracy when selecting the best handgun for yourself. In this article, we’ll explore the most popular and suitable handguns for ladies, considering their specific needs and preferences.
What to Look for in a Handgun for Women
Before diving into specific models, it’s crucial to understand what makes a handgun suitable for women. Here are some key considerations:
• Size and Weight: A smaller and lighter handgun is often easier to handle and conceal.
• Ergonomics: A comfortable grip and smooth trigger pull reduce fatigue and improve accuracy.
• Safety Features: Women, especially beginners, should prioritize handguns with safer designs, such as:
- Trigger lock: Prevents accidental discharge.
- Slide lock: Keeps the gun from being loaded or discharged unintentionally.
- Manual safety: Offers an additional layer of safety.
• Caliber: While.45ACP and 9mm are popular choices, smaller calibers like.38 Special and.380ACP are also suitable for ladies.
• Ammunition Availability: Easy access to affordable and effective ammunition is essential.
Top Picks for Ladies
Based on these criteria, here are some of the best handguns for women:
Pocket Pistols
- Ruger LCP: A lightweight, single-stack 380ACP pistol with a trigger lock and slide lock.
- Kel-Tec P3AT: A compact, single-stack 380ACP pistol with a manual safety and trigger lock.
- Glock 42: A single-stack 380ACP pistol with a trigger lock and slide lock, ideal for concealed carry.
Concealed Carry Handguns
- Walther PPK/S: A compact, double-action-only 9mm pistol with a manual safety and trigger lock.
- Smith & Wesson SD9 VE: A single-stack 9mm pistol with a trigger lock and slide lock, designed for concealed carry.
- Springfield XD-S: A single-stack 9mm or.40 S&W pistol with a manual safety and trigger lock, ideal for concealed carry.
Subcompact Handguns
- Glock 26: A subcompact, double-stack 9mm pistol with a trigger lock and slide lock, popular among women for its compact size and reliable performance.
- Sig Sauer P938: A subcompact, single-stack 9mm pistol with a trigger lock and manual safety, designed for concealed carry.
- Kahr PM9: A subcompact, single-stack 9mm pistol with a manual safety and trigger lock, ideal for deep concealment.
Key Features Comparison Table
| Handgun | Caliber | Length | Width | Height | Weight | Trigger Lock | Slide Lock | Manual Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruger LCP | 380ACP | 5.5 in | 0.88 in | 3.6 in | 10.6 oz | |||
| Kel-Tec P3AT | 380ACP | 5.9 in | 0.75 in | 4.8 in | 12 oz | |||
| Glock 42 | 380ACP | 5.5 in | 0.88 in | 4.4 in | 12.9 oz | |||
| Walther PPK/S | 9mm | 6.6 in | 1.1 in | 4.5 in | 25.3 oz | |||
| Smith & Wesson SD9 VE | 9mm | 6.75 in | 1.1 in | 4.9 in | 25.2 oz | |||
| Springfield XD-S | 9mm/.40 S&W | 6.2 in | 1 in | 4.1 in | 23.7 oz | |||
| Glock 26 | 9mm | 6.5 in | 1.2 in | 4.4 in | 27.7 oz | |||
| Sig Sauer P938 | 9mm | 6.3 in | 1 in | 4.4 in | 28.5 oz | |||
| Kahr PM9 | 9mm | 5.9 in | 0.94 in | 4.3 in | 18.7 oz |
Conclusion
Choosing the best handgun for a lady to carry requires careful consideration of size, weight, comfort, and safety features. By considering the handguns listed above, you can find a reliable and concealable option that suits your needs. Remember to:
• Try before you buy: Test the handguns before making a purchase to ensure a comfortable fit.
• Get proper training: Take a firearms training course to learn proper shooting techniques and handle your handgun safely.
• Respect your limitations: Always prioritize your comfort and capabilities when carrying a handgun.
By following these guidelines and considering the top picks outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best handgun for your needs.
