I concur with other posters that advise a used Smith & Wesson revolver for the first-time gun owner. Why?
1) Simpler to operate. No safety to fumble with. No slide to pull back (particularly if you have weak hands). No magazine to fumble with. No forgetting and wondering whether a round is already chambered. If a round fails to go off, just squeeze the trigger again. Revolvers are more intuitive to load and use. Just aim and squeeze the trigger.
2) Safer for you. No forgotten round in the chamber waiting for an accident. No fumbling with safety or slide when a thug is coming at you.
3) More reliable operation when your life is in danger. No problem with ammo misfeeding, stovepiping, ejecting. Far more forgiving of any type of ammo (solid point, hollow point, various bullet weights, hi-velocity) that is designed to fit your caliber. If you are shopping for a used pistol at the gun shows, it is easier to evaluate a revolver for funtionality than a semi-automatic.
4) More affordable. Used revolvers are not “sexy” in today’s market and in less demand than before. Used common models are the best deal out there and there are lots to choose from.
Buy a .357 because you and your wife can practice with the milder .38 Specials until you are comfortable and ready to upgrade to the more powerful .357 ammo.
I recommend a 4” barrel as the best compromise for portability, weight, shooting comfort and accuracy.
Go to a gun range to meet people and ask questions before you buy anything. Some ranges offer rentals. Most gun enthusiasts are very evangelical about their hobby and will practically beg you to try their gun if you show the slightest interest. It helps if you dress and act decently and don’t come across like a thug or oddball.
“It helps if you dress and act decently and don’t come across like a thug or oddball.”
LOL! Yeah, I guess that would “help”. :)
Buy any good gun.
Then buy some more.