There have been a lot of great suggestions so far! But I definitely second the idea that she should try as many guns as she can get her hands on. There were a lot of guns that I loved on paper but as soon as I tried them I realized it just wasn't going to work for me.
Personally, as a woman who spends a bit too much time at the gun range (and as someone who adores 1911's), I did fall in love completely with a sig p238 for a ccw. It has a bit of heft to it (I have the stainless steel HD version) that makes it a real joy to shoot. I know the point of having a weapon isn't for fun, but it does help when you have something you want to practice with, and subsequently are comfortable carrying.
And I can't help but mention that I've found the Sig P238 really easy to disassemble and clean- some full sized guns have been a challenge for me with my smaller hands. And of course, the less hassle it is to clean, the more you'll want to use it. Which all leads to practicing with the weapon more.
Best of luck to you and your friend!
Personally, as a woman who spends a bit too much time at the gun range (and as someone who adores 1911's), I did fall in love completely with a sig p238 for a ccw. It has a bit of heft to it (I have the stainless steel HD version) that makes it a real joy to shoot. I know the point of having a weapon isn't for fun, but it does help when you have something you want to practice with, and subsequently are comfortable carrying.
And I can't help but mention that I've found the Sig P238 really easy to disassemble and clean- some full sized guns have been a challenge for me with my smaller hands. And of course, the less hassle it is to clean, the more you'll want to use it. Which all leads to practicing with the weapon more.
Best of luck to you and your friend!