Written By Tes Salb, GunBroker Contributor

You’ve made the decision to purchase your first handgun, but now what? Choosing your first handgun can be a very exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. Many women find themselves inundated with information from the internet, friends and local gun shop salespeople on the best handguns for women. 

While this can be helpful, it often lacks explanations of why certain features are important and how to determine which specific model is right for you. It’s common for those knowledgeable in personal defense to say, “just choose something you’re comfortable with.” However, without enough experience behind the trigger, understanding what “comfortable” means in a shooting context can be difficult. 

I often compare purchasing a handgun to buying a pair of shoes. There are thousands of models available, each designed for different activities. Some are suited for evening wear, others for sports, and some for casual outings. Ultimately, they all serve the purpose of keeping our feet healthy and safe. 

Just like shoes, buying a handgun is a personal experience—you need to try on several options to find the right fit. What works for one woman may be uncomfortable for another. Handguns are no different, especially for women! Finding the right handgun for you comes down to selecting one that offers comfort and concealability while meeting your needs, experience level and lifestyle. There is no one best handgun for women. 

So, how do you navigate the vast array of options to determine the best choice for you? With limited time to try every handgun in person, it’s essential to narrow down your options based on the features and benefits that matter most. Think of it like creating a shopping list! 

Define Your Lifestyle

Choosing the right handgun begins with understanding your lifestyle. Just as athletes select equipment tailored to their sport, you should consider how your daily activities and preferences will influence your choice of firearm. Some things to consider are your typical day-to-day routines. This includes clothing style (whether you prefer loose or fitted outfits), and the environments you frequent. Different lifestyles may require specific handgun features, so think carefully about how you spend your time and what you plan to do while carrying.

Another factor to consider is where you want to carry. If you choose to carry on-body, you will want to think about where you want to conceal (ex. appendix, hip, ankle). A handgun that may be concealable in the appendix might not be concealable on the ankle. Every woman’s body and shape is unique. What one person can easily conceal may not work for another. Ultimately, this is a personal decision that should help guide your selection process. And, if you decide to carry off-body, decide what size/type of bag or purse you will use. This will ultimately determine how big or small your handgun can be.

Size, Barrel Length & Weight

Several factors determine the size and weight of a handgun, including magazine capacity, frame size and barrel length. These elements affect how a handgun is balanced and how easy it is to manage recoil. There is no “one size fits all” in this category; each person has a unique anatomical makeup. This means that handguns may balance differently in different women’s hands. This is why it’s essential to physically “try on” specific models and test-fire them before making a purchase. A handgun that fits you well will feel balanced, allowing for better recoil management, quicker recovery for follow-up shots and tighter shot groups.

Handgun frames vary in size, with overall dimensions primarily determined by barrel length and magazine capacity. The latter influences the grip’s length and thickness, which in turn affects how well you can hold the handgun and manage recoil. The ideal size allows for proper grip and trigger finger placement. This is essential for safe and effective handling. If you struggle to grip the gun properly due to its size, achieving accuracy may become challenging. Testing different grip sizes in person is crucial for finding the right fit.

Barrel lengths typically range from 2 to 6 inches, with popular concealed carry models often around 3 inches. A longer barrel tends to be slightly heavier but offers improved accuracy, while a shorter barrel is lighter and may be less accurate at greater distances. If you plan to carry off-body, a longer barrel might be suitable, while a smaller or mid-sized barrel may be more comfortable for on-body carry. Generally, mid-length barrels strike a balance between accuracy and concealment. This makes them a popular choice among female purchasers in recent years.

Weight is another important consideration, influenced by the materials used, frame size, barrel length and magazine capacity. While we’re not talking about significant differences in pounds, even a few ounces can noticeably affect how a handgun feels in your hand. Handguns with polymer frames tend to be lighter and more comfortable to conceal than those made from aluminum or steel, and smaller framed pistols are usually lighter and easier for long-term concealment than their larger counterparts.

A common misconception is that lighter handguns are always better. In reality, having some weight can be beneficial, as it aids in balance, recoil management and recovery on target. If you lean toward lighter handguns, be aware that you might be sacrificing some advantages in proficiency behind the trigger.

Caliber & Recoil

Recoil is the force a handgun exerts back upon its user when it is fired. This is the part of the shot process that must be managed for recovery on target and follow-up shots. A hard recoil can cause shooters to flinch in anticipation of the handgun going off or create other bad habits. This is one thing that newer shooters often struggle to overcome. It takes practice and repetition of good fundamentals to gain proper recoil management, however, there are factors that can help reduce this as you gain more experience.

Felt recoil is closely related to the caliber and weight of the handgun. Smaller calibers, like the popular 9mm and .380 ACP, generally produce softer recoil. Larger calibers tend to have a harder recoil. However, lighter handguns, even in smaller calibers like 9mm, may feel “snappy,” which can give the perception of more recoil. This highlights the importance of practicing a good grip and becoming comfortable with the firearm. Trying out different models and seeking quality training can be beneficial in overcoming recoil issues.

When selecting a handgun caliber, look for one that allows you to maintain a secure grip throughout the firing process and helps you quickly return to the aiming zone for accurate follow-up shots. 

Capacity

When selecting a handgun for personal protection, magazine capacity—how many rounds a magazine holds—is a crucial factor. In critical situations, having sufficient ammunition can make a significant difference. It’s often said, “better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.” Fortunately, many modern handguns come with various magazine capacity options, allowing you to choose what best fits your needs and lifestyle.

Semi-automatic magazines are arranged in either a single- or double-stack configuration. Single-stack magazines arrange the rounds one on top of the other and usually hold fewer rounds but provide a slimmer grip. Double-stack magazines holds the ammunition in two columns, offering higher capacity but a wider grip. Regardless of type of magazine, many manufacturers offer different capacities upon purchase.

When selecting a capacity, refer back to your lifestyle and size of handgun you choose. These two things will oftentimes narrow down the models available for capacity. Smaller handguns don’t normally offer the same capacity as a larger handgun off-the-shelf.

Grip

Grip size can vary based on the handgun’s magazine capacity and overall design. When assessing grip fit, look for one that allows your trigger hand to sit high on the backstrap while ensuring your trigger finger is correctly positioned on the trigger. Grips that are either too large or too small can hinder your ability to draw the gun effectively and manage recoil, making it more challenging to get back on target.

Finding the right grip is important but can be especially difficult with compact or sub-compact handguns. That’s why many shooters opt for models with extended magazines on smaller handguns. These are slightly longer and offer increased capacity to counter the smaller size. These also provide a better fit by allowing more contact between your hand and the grip.

A proper grip is one of the most critical fundamentals in personal defense, as it facilitates sight alignment and enables quicker follow-up shots. This both applies to one’s ability to grip the handgun, as well as the size of the grip on the handgun. While training can improve grip technique, it’s essential to select a handgun with a grip that supports good fundamentals.

Sights

When selecting a handgun, the sight system is an important feature to consider and should be matched to your lifestyle. Think about when and where you’ll be carrying your handgun most frequently. Most handguns come equipped with traditional three-prong iron sights, which can vary in design from all-black options to those featuring tritium and fiber-optic elements for improved visibility in low-light conditions. 

For daytime use, sights that are blacked out or have white lines or dots are effective for sight alignment in bright light. However, they may not be visible in low-light situations, which is crucial to consider. Without proper sight alignment, you could become a liability instead of an asset.

Some handguns offer fiber-optic or tritium/fiber-optic sights. Fiber-optic sights provide a bright sight picture and often allow you to customize the color of the fiber-optic elements, enhancing visibility in various environments. Tritium sights, on the other hand, illuminate without batteries or external light, ensuring visibility even in low light to no light conditions. Both options are excellent for an everyday carry pistol.

Lastly, red-dot sights are gaining popularity in the personal defense arena. Some manufacturers include them on their handguns, while others offer models with slides cut for mounting optics. Red-dot sights use an electronic dot for aiming, enabling you to keep your eyes on the target. Newer shooters often find these sights more appealing because they are easier to use than traditional iron sights, though locating the dot right out of the holster may require practice. Establishing a solid grip and presentation technique will help with this over time. Red-dot sights are good for use in any lighting condition.

Choose a sight system that best fits your lifestyle—it will be one of the most important decisions in your handgun selection process.

Conclusion

Now that we’ve defined our lifestyle and identified the features that matter most, it’s time to visit a local shooting range or gun shop that offers handgun rentals. Communicate your preferences from your list and take the opportunity to test-fire various models. Pay close attention to how each one feels in your hands, how well you can manage recoil, and the tightness of your shot groups. A smaller shot group is a strong indicator of a good fit.

Whether you decide to purchase a handgun today or wait, we cannot overstate the importance of a solid training regimen. Learning and practicing fundamental skills will enable you to shoot almost any handgun comfortably and efficiently. With experience, you’ll find it easier to determine the right fit for you. Plus, spending a day at the range is always more enjoyable than anywhere else!

While there’s much to consider with your first handgun purchase, it can also be an exciting journey. Remember, this is a personal choice—much like selecting a pair of shoes. You are the best judge of what feels comfortable. Ultimately, choose the best handgun that aligns with your lifestyle and comfort, ensuring you can carry it with confidence.

My Top 5 Best Handguns for Women

Rost Martin RM1C

• Caliber: 9mm
• Width: 1.1 in.
• Height: 5 in. with flush mag., 5.5 in. with extended mag
• Weight: 21.1 oz. with flush mag, 21.5 oz. with extended mag
• Barrel Length: 4 in.
• Overall Length: 7.1 in.
• Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds, 17 rounds
• Trigger: 5 lbs., Double-Action Stryker
• Sights: Optics ready, RMR optics plate included
• MSRP: $459
• UPC: 860011125808

The Rost Martin RM1C is a compact handgun that handles like a full-sized pistol. It is flat shooting and allows for easier recoil management and recovery on target. The 5-pound trigger is smooth, and the slide is optic ready, so you can use the factory-mounted iron sights or upgrade to a red-dot sight. The 4-inch barrel makes it ideal for off-body carry or for the days that require clothing for cooler weather. It comes in black, flat dark earth or stone gray and with a 15- or 17-round magazine. Best of all, it is a quality handgun that is made in Texas with an excellent price point.

SIG P365 Rose 380 RomeoZero Elite

• Caliber: .380 Auto
• Width: 1.0 in.
• Height: 5.2 in.
• Weight: 16 oz.
• Barrel Length: 3.1 in.
• Overall Length: 5.8 in.
• Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
• Trigger: Striker
• Sights: ROMEOZero ELITE Circle Dot w/ XRAY3 Day/Night Suppressor Height Sights
• MSRP: $949.99
• UPC: 798681686551

The SIG P365 Rose 380 RomeoZero Elite is a softer shooting handgun designed by Lena Miculek for women! Not only is the color scheme classy, but it is a micro-compact handgun that allows for versatility among carry options. Complete with co-witness/suppressor height sights, this handgun also comes with a Romeo Zero Elite red dot mounted out of the box. By purchasing a SIG Rose handgun, you are also joining a community that includes opportunities to train with Lena Miculek and other world-class trainers.

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield

• Caliber: 9mm
• Width: 0.95 in.
• Height: 4.6 in.
• Weight: 20.9 oz.
• Barrel Length: 3.1 in.
• Overall Length: 6.1 in.
• Magazine Capacity: 7 rounds, 8 rounds
• Trigger: 5 lbs.
• Sights: Fiber-Optic
• MSRP: $549
• UPC: 022188872194

The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield is a single-stack micro-compact handgun that is smaller and lightweight for easier handling. Its lightweight frame and streamlined profile make it an excellent choice for those seeking versatility in carry options while the interchangeable fiber-optic sights allow for a customized sight picture. Whether you prefer to wear it inside the waistband, in a pocket or in a bag, the M&P9 Shield adapts seamlessly to your lifestyle.

Ruger LCP Max

• Caliber: .380 Auto
• Width: .81 in.
• Height: 4.12 in.
• Weight: 10.6 oz.
• Barrel Length: 2.8 in.
• Overall Length: 5.17 in.
• Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
• Trigger: 5 lbs.
• Sights: Tritium with White Outline
• MSRP: $479
• UPC: 736676137169

The Ruger LCP Max is a pocket-sized personal protection pistol that is small, lightweight and easy to conceal. It is the perfect balance between compactness and performance. It features a slightly larger magazine capacity than other models of its size and comes in many color options. The tritium sights take you from day to low light with ease. This is a great little pocket pistol to take with you everywhere regardless of your lifestyle.

Springfield Hellcat

• Caliber: 9mm
• Width: 1 in.
• Height: 4 in. with flush mag, 4.5 in. with extended mag
• Weight: 17.9 oz. with flush mag, 18.3 oz. with extended mag
• Barrel Length: 3 in.
• Overall Length: 6 in.
• Magazine Capacity: 11 rounds, 13 rounds
• Trigger: 5 lbs.
• Sights: Tritium, Optics Ready
• MSRP: $633
• UPC: 706397984793

The Springfield Hellcat is a concealed-carry pistol that raises the bar. It features a compact frame with increased capacity. It comes with Tritium sights and the slide is cut to allow for the addition of a red dot sight to keep you ready in any light condition. This is the perfect blend of concealment and capacity to empower you to carry with confidence.

Related Articles: Make Mine a 10: Three Top Loads for 10mm Automatic

Related Articles: 19 Most Expensive Guns Sold on GunBroker September 2024

Related Articles: The Springfield Echelon Comp Runs Fast, Easy & Accurate

Tags: compact handguns, concealed carry, Rost Martin, Ruger, self defense, SIG Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Springfield Armory