She Did It!!! She Finally Did It!!!!!

[goon]

I do have to admit that I started out with a .22 revolver.
And I never could hit anything with it.
Then I bought a 1911 .45 ACP. Although it wasn't perfectly reliable, I did shoot much better with it than with the .22.
The only reason I want one now is because of how much inexpensive practice I could get with one and because my GF needs even more practice than I do.

After having owned all sorts of handguns I've come back to the 9mm and I think I'll stick with it.
So I guess it's about as good of a place to start as any.

 

[Wopasaurus]

I'd say go with the 4" XD45Compact. That way you can use the 10 round compact magazine, or the 13rd standard extended one.

Couldn't hurt to have the versatility.

 

[DEDON45]

I would start with a .38 or 9mm (full-frame gun).... the wife should be able to use it too, and avoid anything too "hot", especially if she was previously against or afraid of the idea. After she gets comfortable, sure, get a .45 ... it's a definite nutjob-stopper.

I wouldn't trust my life to a .22 ... just not enough "oomph" for a possibly drug-crazed intruder.

 

[CountGlockula]

Congrats! Training is key, I highly encourage you and your wife take some self defense handgun classes to be more comfortable using your new XD.

 

[brighamr]

XD 45 subcompact is good for everyday carry, but if you're looking for a dual purpose gun (target shooting and the like), get the full size with an IWB holster.

I remember my wife's first trip to the gun store. That was huge! Two years later she reminded me to take my pistol when we went hiking ("You have your pistol right?)...

you'll get there!

 

[hfdcowboy]

Happy wife happy life. That being said i'm buying regardless.

BTW i own an xd .45 full frame love it if you want it get it. Start her out small if you want get a j-frame smith .38 then you have two handguns.