Anytime you ask someone what the best handguns for women you are going to get a mixed response. The reason is that multiple variables need to be looked at to determine the right gun for anyone. Let’s discuss these variables and look at some of the best handguns for sale that are good for women.
What to Look for in a Handgun for Women
Several differences between males and females affect handgun choice.
- Smaller hands
- Reduced recoil limits
- Position of carry
To choose a suitable weapon, we need to take each of these into consideration. Often, you will see or hear people recommend tiny, small caliber handguns for women, such as a Beretta 21 Bobcat in .22LR. Many women can carry a much larger caliber and frame if they choose the gun correctly.
Position of carry is also an important aspect, as many women will not carry their handgun on the hip or attached to a sturdy belt. While a revolver with an exposed hammer would be acceptable for a male who wants to carry appendix with an IWB holster, the hammer could snag for a woman who is carrying in her purse. Therefore, we have to consider both design and weight.
The Best Handguns for Women
- Caliber- 9mm
- Capacity- 10+1
- Weight- 16.40 oz
- Barrel Length- 3.41″
- Overall Length- 6.50″
- Width (Overall)- 1.10″
The first gun on the list is the Glock 43X. Many people consider a 9 mm handgun to be the lowest adequate caliber for self-defense. The 43X allows you to carry a compact 9mm, but with a very comfortable grip that is thin enough for a woman to get a full hand grip on the gun. Glock is one of the most popular options for concealed carry in the world due to their reputation of reliability and simplicity, which helps to push them to the top of the pack.
- Caliber- .38 Special
- Capacity- 5
- Weight- 14.8oz
- Barrel Length- 1.875″
- Overall Length- 6.3″
- Width (Overall)- 1.35”
The next gun on the list is the Smith & Wesson 442 Airweight revolver. People have been using revolvers for self-defense for hundreds of years. Revolvers have remained unchanged because they work. Self-defense situations can be extremely stressful which can lead to impaired mental function. If a revolver had ammo in it, you pull the trigger, and it fires. It is a simple and effective defense with minimal input needed from the shooter.
The 442 Airweight with its snag-less enclosed hammer design and low weight make it a perfect carry handgun for any woman.
- Caliber- .380 ACP
- Capacity- 7+1
- Weight- 17.2 oz
- Barrel Length- 3.14″
- Overall Length- 5.94″
- Width (Overall)- 1.04”
If you need a smaller option, then the Ruger LC380 is probably the best handgun for women on the market. The LC380 was built from the ground up as a concealed carry gun, and it shows. The snag-less design features smooth corners and low-profile sights. The trigger is smooth and crisp, and the grip is thin enough for smaller hands to get a secure hold. Chambered in .380 ACP, the LC380 has less recoil than a 9mm handgun but still has enough power for self-defense.
Conclusion
These three of these handguns are all high quality and thoroughly vetted for use as concealed carry and self-defense weapons. When you are considering the best handgun for women, remember that being able to get a firm grip can be as crucial as the caliber. However, the most important thing is to make sure you are comfortable holding, drawing, and firing the handgun.