I'm no authority (fer sure) but I can say that my wife dislikes my Kel-Tec P-11 (I rather like it myself) for two reasons:dubya wrote:Doug/LaserTex,
I would echo your good advice and the LCP or a Keltec are certainly nice for weight and concealability.
I also think a revolver, like a S&W 642/442 etc. makes a good first firearm for a lot of people because it is more "fail proof" in an emergency situation. Yes, it too can jam - but there is less to fool with.
1) Being a double-action only, it has a long, hard trigger pull
2) She has a very difficult time working the slide (being a lightweight weapon the spring is stiff and so it requires a strong grip)
I'm slowly working on her to get her CHL (may never happen). If/when she does, I'll give odds she'll opt for a revolver. Then again, I haven't tried all of the small carry pistols out there, particularly the .380 models, so there surely may be other good options about which I am unaware.