She lives in IL and just got her FOID card. She doesn't own ANY guns yet, but can only afford one right now. Should we get her a shotgun for home defense, or should we get her a handgun in case IL allows carry soon? She can NOT get both right now, so which one should she get first?
+1 on the revolvers. Many women have difficulty cycling autos.
There is always a plethora of bad advice when people ask about guns for women. Revolvers and shotguns are terrible choices as they have a complicated manual of arms and are less robust and more prone to user error than modern semiautomatic pistols and rifles. Lightweight revolvers are especially difficult to shoot well. If a person lacks the strength to manipulate the slide on a pistol (usually due to poor technique rather than ability), then they lack the strength to repeatedly pull a heavy, long double action trigger and make accurate hits.
The advice to just let them shoot a bunch of guns and pick the one they like is similarly foolhardy. If a person is not educated in what makes a suitable defensive firearm, then they are incapable of making an educated decision.
I offer the same advice I offer anyone: buy a Glock or M&P in 9mm and seek professional training in its use.
There is always a plethora of bad advice when people ask about guns for women. Revolvers and shotguns are terrible choices as they have a complicated manual of arms and are less robust and more prone to user error than modern semiautomatic pistols and rifles. Lightweight revolvers are especially difficult to shoot well. If a person lacks the strength to manipulate the slide on a pistol (usually due to poor technique rather than ability), then they lack the strength to repeatedly pull a heavy, long double action trigger and make accurate hits.
The advice to just let them shoot a bunch of guns and pick the one they like is similarly foolhardy. If a person is not educated in what makes a suitable defensive firearm, then they are incapable of making an educated decision.
I offer the same advice I offer anyone: buy a Glock or M&P in 9mm and seek professional training in its use.
If a person lacks the strength to manipulate the slide on a pistol (usually due to poor technique rather than ability), then they lack the strength to repeatedly pull a heavy, long double action trigger and make accurate hits.
I offer the same advice I offer anyone: buy a Glock or M&P in 9mm and seek professional training in its use.
Thanks for the responses. I was not aware she can carry it outside on her own property in IL. I'll have to review their laws to be certain, but hopefully that's a moot point in a few weeks. Anyway, I was leaning toward a handgun because of the ability to carry anywhere, unlike the shotgun which would only be a home gun. Between me, my cousins, her dad, sisters and brother-in-law, she will get to shoot all types of guns and calibers to decide what she likes best.
Thanks for the help.