HD compact/sub compact for the girlfriend

[Ponderosa2]

I have smaller hands and I went with a P2000sk. Works for me.

[davbog44]

Although a few above disagree, a "Compact" sized pistol is, IMO, a perfectly acceptable size for home protection. Remember that very respectable weapons like the Glock 19/23 and the SIG P229 are "Compact" pistols.

On the other hand, in general I tend to feel that a lot of sub compacts, just being chopped down versions of their compact and full sized counterparts, don't offer much advantage except for certain concealed carry situations. But they aren't necessarily any better for smaller hands or small stature shooters.

I personally would also steer away from "pocket pistols" as they are really designed to be carried concealed in situations where more capable handguns can't hide well. But I don't think anyone should opt for one simply and only because of hand size issues. On top of that, a lot of pocket sized blow back operated .380's recoil as much as a 9MM.

Personally, if your budget allows, the HK P2000 is probably (again my opinion only) the best of its breed. HKs are very soft shooters for their size, absolutely dependable, and have the changeable back straps to fit varying hand sizes.

You might also want to look at the SIG P229 with the newer E2 grip configuration, which makes the P229 more female hand size friendly. The P229 will feel solid to her (like your Beretta) because of the alloy frame, but will definitely be easier for her to manage.

[GUNFREAK]

THIS. So true.

People always think a smaller gun is easier to shoot. Not true. Given the same caliber, the smaller gun typically will typically be more violent.

As he said above, find a thin full size gun.

+2.

[powaybob]

I am going through the process of finding a handgun for my wife. We tried shooting all of the one I have- too big. Next we went to a shop (Poway Guns and Gear) and she tried handling a lot of handguns and liked the S&W M&P and the Glock 19. Next step will be for her to try them at a range along with a hired instructor. Then she will decide what she wants to buy.

[zfields]

to support my point, here's my co-worker shooting my sp2022 chambered in .40 S&W, mind you it's her first time, the grip on is size medium and she's the same height as your girl.


I'd get the sp2022 in 9mm and never look back since she likes p290, since they're both polymer, with similar grip and DA trigger.

Bullseye?


FWIW my GF started with my XD .45, she doesnt even like to shoot my 9mm's : (

[PandaLuv]

Bullseye?


FWIW my GF started with my XD .45, she doesnt even like to shoot my 9mm's : (

Target Masters of Milpitas, actually. Love that range when there aren't any retards at night, plus the staff is very cool.

[Bug Splat]

I've owned a few sub compacts and the one that is small yet feels like a full size pistol is the Kahr K9. You can get all 3 fingers on the grip and it just feels solid. It has the weight to tame the recoil too. The full size K9 is a tad smaller than an XD-sub-compact in length and height and much thinner. The only issue she may have is the slide is hard to pull back. She will have to practice and come up with a method that works for her.

[Sunday]

Bring her to a nice gun shop and let HER TRY out different models to pick out her favorite. Women like to shop.