Women’s safety is a big concern in society. 1 in 5 women are the victims of rape while 1 in 2 women are victims of other violent, sexual crimes according to the Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault. Women are also common targets for robberies and kidnappings. Self-defense is the best way to combat a threat whether on the streets or in the home.
More and more women are purchasing handguns to protect themselves and loved ones. Ideally, just showing a gun would be enough to scare a threat away, but that is not always the case. Shooting a gun requires training. Knowledge of how to properly handle a gun and having the confidence to use it is key to probably defending yourself.
Not All Guns Are Created Equal
You may not like the first few handguns you try. This is normal. It usually takes some time and research to find the right one. Recoil is usually the main component that women have a hard time adjusting to. The handgun’s weight and size affects the recoil. Bigger handguns will have less of a recoil. This will reduce the kick you feel after firing. Shop around and try different guns to find the right feel for you.
The trigger is another component that will differ between guns. You will find it may be easier to pull on one gun compared to another. Some people will buy a handgun without trying to pull the trigger and will later find it is hard to do so. Learning to rack the slide of a handgun is a good skill to have. This is the act of pushing back on the slide of an automatic handgun before firing.
Types of Handguns
Handguns come in two types: revolvers and semi-automatic. Revolvers have been around for about two centuries and are also referred to as wheelguns. A revolver typically holds between 5 and 7 rounds of ammunition in the rotating cylinder. Modern revolvers mainly have a double-action system. This works with the trigger pull cocking and releasing the hammer, thus firing the gun. Many revolvers also work with a single-action system where the hammer is cocked first. This helps create an easier trigger pull too.
Semi-automatic handguns, also called pistols, have been around for around one century. They hold more rounds than a revolver, typically holding 17 rounds of 9mm bullets in the magazine. Laws do vary per state. For example, California laws do not allow more than 10 rounds per magazine in a handgun. The magazine is placed in the pistol grip (the handle). They also primarily use double-action systems. However, they are also made as single-action. Pistols can be reloaded in a relatively easy manner. A user can take their eyes away from the threat and still have the pistol positioned downrange.
Handling a Handgun
Learning how to handle a handgun is mostly for safety opposed to shooting accuracy. Women and men are often their own victim by mishandling their weapon, not receiving proper training, and general carelessness. Modern handguns, due to their internal safety systems, will not randomly discharge. It will be due to something the user is doing with the gun.
Having the proper grip on your handgun is essential. Since the gun becomes an extension of the arm. It affects aim, balance, ability to pull the trigger or work the hammer, to turn the safety on and off, and how much recoil is absorbed. This ultimately leads to your personal safety being negatively affected.
The two-handed grip is recommended, especially for beginners and self-defense. You should be comfortable handling the gun in either hand and with using one hand at a time. If your dominant hand is not free during an emergency, your less-dominant hand will have to handle the gun. Preparing for any scenario is ideal and will also enhance your skills with the handgun. Also, whenever you are gripping a gun, your trigger finger should be straight out along the side of the frame. The trigger finger should only be moved if you intend to fire the gun.
Handguns to Consider
There are various handguns on the market that women love. The Glock 19 is commonly suggested and for a good reason. It has minimal controls and is simple to operate. It contains no hammer and has a consistent trigger pull. The gun is shorter than 7 inches and only weighs almost 30 ounces loaded. It holds 15 rounds of ammo and has minimal recoil.
The Smith & Wesson M&P is another great handgun and is commonly used in law enforcement. It is equipped with multiple safety systems. The gun will not fire if the magazine is removed, newer models have a thumb safety, and it also has an integrated ignition system lock. The gun holds two, 17 round magazines and weighs less than 30 ounces.
A fantastic revolver for women is the Ruger GP100. The gun weighs around 40 ounces and holds six rounds. The GP100 has many models to choose from with various features, making it easier to find the right one for you. The frame allows for customized grips, making it easier to handle. The recoil is fairly light and can also be reduced with the Hogue Monogrip that the gun comes with.
Final Thoughts
A handgun that works for a friend may not work for you. Taking the time to go through several options and test them will give you a handgun that you can rely on and efficiently use. Aside from the handgun itself, ammunition is another tricky component. It is important to educate yourself about the differences between various types of ammunition and magazines so that the right kind is ammunition is bought for your gun. Consulting a trained professional with any questions regarding the gun, ammunition, and accessories will help you gain the knowledge you need. It will also keep you safer.
Many seasoned gun users make safety mistakes when they become comfortable with their gun. Being familiar with your gun is important but becoming relaxed with simple guidelines and recommendations can be deadly. A gun owner may not properly lock their gun away because house members “know better” or “nothing has happened yet.” They also might overlook proper handling techniques and cause the gun to fire. No matter how long you have owned a gun for, it should be treated like it’s brand new.
