RE: Post #80
I agree with your post. She is looking for a first time gun for self defense and classes.
She didn’t mention that she was going to practice regularly, compete or get into handgun hunting.
While I agree that anyone can train and safely and accuratly shoot most any caliber, I would not recommend she go purchase a 500 Mag to take to her first class. But that’s just the opinion of a minion. I am not an NRA Ceritified Firearms Instructor with 20+ years of experience.
Mea culpa. I should have also mentioned that anyone taking my shooting classes (ccw too) classes including all the family members I have taught to shoot must start with a 22LR and work UP TO whatever caliber they desire.
With the correct instruction and a sequence of calibers starting with the 22LR any caliber including the big 500 is still within the grasp of any adult female. I myself own the SW XVR 460 magnum second only to the 500 (okay third if you want to include the 480 Ruger) and have taken students that far. I don't care if you're an airborne ranger or a little old lady from South Miami, everybody takes MY class the same way. Start with a 22 and work up. There! Better?