[oldenuff2no]

The first comment I would like to make is that you really need to take a look at any rule that puts a price limit on a weapon that will be used to save your wife's life. I take it that her life is worth $400 but not worth $600.
I'm a long time CCW holder, comp shooter, gunsmith, and firearms safety instructor.
My best advice is to find a handgun that fits her hands, not yours, that is reliable and easy to use in a stressful situation. Take classes from certified instructors on how and when to use the handgun, and then set up a practice schedule and stick with it. There are many great handguns on the market. The selection of an individual protection firearm is personal, serious and important. Take her to a range that teaches and rents handguns. Have her shoot as many different models as she can get her hands on. One of them will jump up as the "Best" one for her situation. You won't break the bank by making this decision in this manner. It is likely that it will cost you more than $400 but I think you can get the job done for under $700. Just please do not put a firm price tag on her life.

[Tunehead54]

Good advice. Pay attention! ;-)

[Blood of Tyrants]

The first comment I would like to make is that you really need to take a look at any rule that puts a price limit on a weapon that will be used to save your wife's life. I take it that her life is worth $400 but not worth $600.

Her life is imminently valuable to me so using your logic, I should spend everything I have and hire a full time, highly trained bodyguard. I cannot do that and as with most of us, I have a budget. You CAN buy a very reliable sub-compact for $400 or so.