self defense weoponry

Question
mr. nyce,

i have a couple questions about self defense/ conceal carry firearms.  first of all i've never owned a handgun but have had a lot of experience regarding firearms in general but seldom handle handguns.  

i am looking for handguns for both myself and my girlfriend.   
for myself i have several friends with military and police backgrounds that have recommended glocks in .40cal and would like to know if that would be a wise choice for a first handgun.  regarding my gf, who has never fired a handgun to my knowledge, i was hoping that you could recommend a few calibers that she would be able to handle and that would make a good purse gun. any guidence regarding my inquiry it would be most appreciated.

thanks,
ben

Answer
I carry a .45ACP 1911 style gun when my clothes are able to conceal it. With lighter clothing, I switch to a .380ACP Walther PPK.  I'm also considering a Sig Sauer P238 (which is small and also .380ACP). I've never carried a .40 cal.

The easiest type of gun to understand for a novice is a revolver. A .38 special cartridge will provide modest recoil.

The above are just my thoughts on calibers and styles of guns for concealed carry.

But you probably should not just go out and buy a gun. You both should make a few visits to a local gun store that has a range. Talk to the sales clerk and they will let you try some guns on the range. The best way to find out what type and caliber of gun you would feel most comfortable with is to try using them on the range. You should also have some safety instruction, and plan on practicing regularly.

Any of the above calibers or a 9mm are OK for personal carry, with a suitable cartridge (and self-defense bullet type).

Hope this helps!

Dave