e5casey

I carry an XD .40 and really like it. I don't know why but having no safety on a pistol makes me somewhat nervous. With the XD the gun will not fire without your hand depressing a small switch and your able to tell if you have a round chambered by a dove tail that flips up on top of the slide.

Vprdrvr

Definitely recommend the XD or pocket S&W revolver

DustyRoads

Do you realize what you have started? This thread could go on for years.

Can't go wrong with a Smith and Wesson .22 revolver.

Pilotpip

Good advise above. On all fronts. I've been a lifelong hunter and shoot shotguns all the time. I decided a couple years ago it was time to buy a handgun. My basic criteria were simple, it has to be under $600 and chambered in 9mm since I wanted to shoot it a lot to become proficient and 9mm is one of the less expensive rounds.

After much research, I bought an FNX-9. I liked the way it fit my hand, and I liked that it came with a 3rd magazine. I'm sure glocks and XDMs are nice but I couldn't stand the way they felt in my hand. I don't doubt that they're quality firearms (look at how many suggestions there are for them), they just don't work for me.

You'll find tons of opinions on what is best. I would do what was suggested above, go in on a weekday and try them out. I don't think you can go wrong with any of the above but see which you like for yourself and your wife. I'm also amazed at how much better I got with the handgun after taking a defensive shooting class at a local range.