Soon To Carry in Arizona

[lou_qal58]

Hello to soon-to-be fellow warriors. I say it that way because, though I had shot my 1st weapon 11 years ago during training as a corrections officer, my experience with handguns is limited. I found the 9mm glock to be cumbersome and difficult to operate. A few trips to some local ranges made me realize that I couldn't handle any handgun larger than a .38 special - which will be my initial carry of choice. I am a 58 Y/O female with arthritis and carpal tunnel in small hands. But I found the S&W airweight to be easy to handle. There is so much to learn, and it can seem daunting, but I am determined to defend myself, my loved ones, and my home.

If anyone has thoughts on a similar, yet more powerful handgun - keeping in mind my small hands and their physical issues - I would appreciate any input and suggestions.

Thank you. I have much to learn and explore in this new realm.

Lou

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[1MoreGoodGuy]

Welcome from Texas. I'd suggest finding a range that rents guns and try a bunch out to find out what is best for you. Good luck.

[Jesters Dead]

+1!^^^^^

Welcome from Oklahoma!

[Crowman]

[RoadRunner71]

Welcome from Michigan!

[ANGLICO]

Welcome aboard!

[gasmitty]

Welcome, Lou!

The one thing about lightweight .38 snubs is that recoil can be a handful, especially in light of arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. So if you shoot a lot, a standard-weight snub may be in order, but I won't suggest fixing something that's not broken. But if it does become a handful for you, there are some alternatives in the same general power range as your snub.

Good ranges abound here in AZ, as do training opportunities, so take advantage of them if you can!

[VPNAVY]

Welcome aboard from the great state of Pennsylvania!

[Ksgunner]

Hello! Welcome from Southeast Kansas!

[Brad426]

Welcome and good luck.

[Brass63]

Welcome from Michigan!
Good to have you aboard.

[rstickle]

Welcome to the forum!

[archer51]

Welcome from Virginia.

Just curious, have you tried any of the single stack 9mm? Smaller grips on them may work for you, unless it is the ability to rack the slide is the problem your having due to the arthritis and carpel tunnel issues.

[GhostMaker]

Welcome! I like the mindset you exhibit going into this decision. Most people will admit that they are a perpetual student of the self-defense discipline, so it is an ongoing learning process. The choice of a good 38 to carry is an excellent one, as to the fact that your decision making process behind it is sound. As a former police officer and police instructor I always advise to carry the handgun you are most comfortable with, shoot well, and that is of acceptable power. With your arthritis and carpal tunnel at work, the 38 Special is a good solid choice.

[P5]

Welcome from MD