D/A Revolver with Crimson Trace grips for wife?

[Therapydude]

Personally, I prefer autos, but I'm looking at purchasing a D/A revolver for my wife (she is not very familiar with firearms). I'm looking at purchasing a Ruger Sp-101 in .357 magnum (3" barrel) with a pair of Crimson Trace laser grips. Of course, I don't want her to be completely reliant on the laser (will practice use of iron sights with her), but I think it would definitely help her get started. Any thoughts on this particular set up?

 

[Pilot]

My wife bought a S&W 642 with the factory installed Crimson Trace laser grips. She likes it a lot. My only fear is that she'd fixate on chasing the dot costing you critical time. I like to make her practice both without the laser on and with the laser on. Personally, I do not like them, but if it makes her feel better, that's fine.

 

[CraigJS]

I have an M85 Taurus with CT grips on it. Great for low light, great for "out of position" shooting. Easy to wear when I want to carry lite.. Take her along with you when you go for "her" pistol. She'll feel more like it's hers! I haven't found myself haveing to "chase the dot". I've grown up with guns, but would think that the dot would be a great confidence builder if she should have to defend herself... The sp101 will serve her well, and .38's or .38 +P's will also serve her well until she would feel she could handle .357's.
CraigJS

 

[valnar]

I like the 642, a lot. But I wouldn't recommend anything less than a 3" barrel for self defense, especially if she is shooting .357Mag ammo. Of course, my recommendation goes out the window if this is for CCW. But for home defense, no need to get a snub nose.

Robert

 

[bubbygator]

The laser spot is a great!! training device. She'll be surprised at how much "shake" she has... and pleased when she finally gets steady! Mine is a 442; but whatever floats her boat.

 

[Pilot]

I like the 642, a lot. But I wouldn't recommend anything less than a 3" barrel for self defense, especially if she is shooting .357Mag ammo.

The 642 is .38 Spl +p only. .357 Magnum won't fit.

 

[valnar]

The 642 is .38 Spl +p only. .357 Magnum won't fit.

Correct. My bad. My mind was on the previously mentioned Ruger Sp-101 when I wrote that. :banghead: