[arm958]

I got my wife the SP101 two years ago in .357 as well. I liked that choice because she can practice with .38's, and load it out for carry with .357 hollow points.

Great gun: Compact, not too light, and utterly reliable. I used to have one and wish I still did.

I would definitely recommend a revolver as a first gun. Anyone who chooses an auto for a first gun must be willing to spend time to completely understand its operation, combined with regular range practice.

[Space Wrangler]

My wife had very limited exposure to firearms before meeting me, and I based my decision for the revolver on that. My first revolver was a Ruger Security Six in 357, and I still have it and like it very much. I got the hammerless SA only model, and she's very happy and comfortable with it. I carry either my Glock 23, or an Uzi Baby Eagle in .40 as my primary carry gun, and a Sig p232 .380 as a 'warm weather' carry gun. It fits easily into the pockets of shorts, and is much more easily concealed than even a medium sized auto chambered in .40.