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mojo84 wrote:Based on the OP, I would recommend the OP try a snub nosed 38 with a bobbed or concealed hammer. Otherwise, a 22 is better than nothing. I would encourage OP practice as much as possible with whatever she ends up with to get as comfortable as possible with whatever age chooses.

Due to the short sight radius, snub nose revolvers are difficult to shoot accurately. Practice, practice, practice. I would buy a S&W because I believe they would have a better trigger than other brands.

TexasGal wrote:I was going with my own personal experience with several .22 semiautomatics I have tried that were picky about ammo and would have stoppages. In a self defense situation, that would not be a happy moment.

I agree with your assessment about many of the .22 semiautomatics. In my opinion the 22s that have the right size and shape that might be good for concealed carry are knock offs of popular selling center fire models. I think that the manufacturers are more concerned about the appearance and not the reliability.

Maybe a bigger factor is the cost of producing and sales price. I have noticed that many people will spend $600+ for a 9mm or 45ACP, but not for a 22LR. For example a Browning Buckmark sells for about $360. This handgun is very accurate and reliable but isn't the proper shape, size and configuration for concealed carry. An CC version might cost let's say $500. I don't believe they would sell very many.

My ideal 22LR for CC would be a double stack magazine carrying 14+ rounds and have a magazine release on the side, just like most higher caliber pistols.

Welcome to the forum Dragon!

TexasGal wrote:The main issue with the .22 caliber is it is a rimfire vs a center fire. Rimfire cartridges are less reliable to go bang and cycle the gun every time.

I am not saying that the .22LR is a good defense caliber, but I don't agree with this statement. I have shot tens of thousands of .22LR and had fewer misfires and failures to cycle than with any centerfire cartridge.

Of course the choice of guns is critical. IMO, many of the .22LR pistols aren't made as good as centerfire pistol. I don't think people are willing to spend as much money on a .22LR pistol as they would on a centerfire pistol. I think that is the problem with the gun rather than the ammunition.

Another option for Dragon is an 8 shot revolver. Unfortunately the choice is limited. I would go for a S&W.