Too elaborate further on what has been said above, I have many students who are elderly (I'm an NRA instructor in Florida). Many of these students come to my class with 1911s and Glocks that they purchased from gunshops as well as .357 revolvers, many of these individuals have severe arthritis and dexterity issues where they cannot rack a slide or handle the recoil of a full house .357, and they say to me.
" The gunshop guy said that I need at least a .40SW or a .357MAG for an effective defense cartridge!"
My answer.
" Don't worry about him, he's not paid to ask you the right questions about your hand size, your ability to handle felt recoil, and your arthritis issues, thats what I am here for. He should be asking you those questions, but he is paid on commission"
Their response.
" My dad was on the police department and used .38 specials, whats wrong with those?"
My response
" NOTHING!!!, todays bullet designs and .38+P loads are exceptional and well respected defensive cartridges. I don't feel an ounce outgunned having Speer .38+P Gold Dots in my Smith & Wesson J Frame"
My further response.
" You must understand that there is nothing wrong with a Sig or a Glock, but its not the right gun for YOU, it may be right for law enforcement or someone with better physical agility and health, but ultimatly handgun choices are VERY PERSONAL decisions. It by no means that you are undergunned with a .38 Special revolver and a proper load."
Their response: "smile"
Glad I could help.
