[rockrr]

"but would it be prudent to get a semi-auto in order to get the additional legal right to carry either?"

I don't understand this part. Does your local community impose caliber or format restrictions in order to obtain a CCW?

Although my primary carry is a semi-auto .45 I've found that revolvers make great "starter" weapons. I have a small-frame S&W model 19 in .357 that I used to teach my kids to shoot. With .38 ammo it was quite comfortable for them.

[sarge83]

If she intends to carry concealed I would suggest a simple S&W model 36 snub nose. It has stopping power and is concealable. If it is simply a house gun, a four inch .357 revolver loaded up with P+ .38spl rounds.

[Richard Kimball]

If she takes the class with a semi-auto, she can carry either a semi-auto or revolver. If she takes it with a revolver, her permit is only good for a revolver.

The class itself, I've taken it, is mostly about safety, concealed carry laws, and not shooting yourself, although you do have to shoot at least fifty rounds with a semi-reasonable degree of accuracy.

The state reasoning is that since semi-autos are more complex, you should test with a semi to carry a semi, but if you can handle a semi, you should be able to handle a revolver.