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You might want to try out the average small female on the typical derringer and again on the Glock 30/36. Chances are that she'll find the Glock lighter-recoiling and a lot easier to shoot. For the calibers they come in, derringers have horrible felt recoil and a great deal of muzzle flash, which means that the lady isn't likely to practice with the weapon a great deal. And we all know that practice with one's chosen weapon is *very, very important*.

I figured this out a while back and stopped recommending derringers and revolvers to women, except for those so hopelessly confused by technology that they couldn't be taught how to take apart and clean a Glock. (And yes, there are guys like that, too - seems to be about the same percentage of the population for both genders, so nobody take offense). Other than those, I recommend autopistols.

Yes, I understand that. But for a female that may not want to spend $600 plus bucks, and wants it strictly for protection in the purse, (doesn't enjoy going to the range like some of us) and wants something tiny, super light, a derringer is better than nothing, every single time.

I agree with you, there are much better choices on the market for someone that may want to pursue the defense angle fully. But the derringer just came up as an easy, very inexpensive choice.

And we all know that practice with one's chosen weapon is *very, very important*.

In reality, most women that carry, don't practice. They go out a few times, learn to use it, and like many of us, neglect to go routinely and practice. I even know cops that can't find the time.

As you know, most shooting involving handguns/defense are within a few feet. Not much practice needed there except for reloading techniques.

I've got a Glock 19 - 9MM. My son is now 10. A couple of years ago I bought it because we are fairly isolated and yet in a very urban area. I'd taken him to the range before and rented .22 pistols and rifles for him to shoot but shortly after his 10th birthday I put one round in the Glock to let him try it. He did fine. Another round - no problem. Now try a double tap - accuracy went down but he wasn't dropping the gun! A few more rounds and I gave him a full mag. He had no problem emptying the magazine except after the second he said he felt shaky but was grinning from ear to ear.

For all: When on the range I stand directly behind him - monitoring his every move. Also note there's a tendancy when racking the 1st round to sort of turn sideways as you draw back the action. That puts your next door shooter at risk. Always keep the gun pointed downrange. Oh and for automatics - thumb over thumb or you'll regret it.

The point is - sorry I like to yak - if my son can do it at 10 a woman can handle a Glock and they do have less recoil IMHO. ;-)