[Jay]

I encourage the folks I teach to pick a handgun just like they do shoes...... ya go and try 'em on...... I can suggest lots of fine shoes, but you're gonna try 'em on first, right?

Same same with handguns. Go to gun shops, gun shows, my house, whever you can legally get your hands on a handgun, and after you're sure the gun is clear, pick it up and handle it. Close your eyes..... it doesn't have to be purty, your brain and hands will tell you if it feels good in your hands. You'll end up finding several that feel good to you. Pursue those. Many manufacturers make different calibers in the same frame, so manufacturer, or caliber should NOT be of prime consideration. Many fine shooters recommend a particular semi-auto....... but they don't "feel right" in my hands. I grew up with 1911-style frames, and that's been my choice for over 40 years. My choice. You're welcome to try mine, but if they don't "fit" look at something else.

Training.... with proper stance, grip, sight alignment, and trigger squeeze...... virtually anyone can shoot virtually any caliber proficiently. HOWEVER, if the handgun doesn't "feel right" to you, you won't shoot it enough to become proficient with it. If you're not proficient with it, carry a ball bat. Proficiency is what counts. A hit with a .22LR beats the hell out of a miss with a 44 magnum.

Just my two cents........

I have two openings left in the Basic Pistol/Personal Protection class on July 11th and 12th in Grant County (near Marion). There are two ladies in the class, and a female will be co-teaching with me on Sunday. Holler if you're interested.