TexasCHLforum.com

Hello and Welcome.

I own a Smith and Wesson Bodyguard .380 and a Springfield XDM Compact 9mm.

My wife's favorite between those two is the Springfield. She says the Bodyguard kicks harder and makes her hand hurt. She also has problems with the slide on the Bodyguard.

My daughter is 18 and prefers the Springfield as well for the same reasons.

In general, the larger the frame on a particular caliber pistol, the more manageable recoil will be (i.e. a full sized 9mm will feel like it "kicks" less than a compact 9mm). It's a balancing act between how large a pistol you can (or want to) carry and how much recoil you are willing to deal with.

I agree with TexasGal that a .22 may be a great learning (training) gun but wouldn't be my choice for self defense. I also agree with her that 9mm is a great way to go and there are many options out there to try.

You may try going to Tactical Firearms on Mason Road in Katy. They have a great range and will rent pistols (I think just about every flavor available). It's a great way to try a variety without having to buy them first. You just provide the ammo for rented weapons. I'd recommend making a reservation if you're going on a weekend afternoon. They get crowded and sometimes have a wait.

Good luck and have fun with the selection process!