The Best "Lady's Gun"

Historically, the term "lady's gun" has been applied to rather small handguns using cartridges of relatively low power, such as the .22 Short, .22 Long Rifle, ..25 ACP, and 32 S&W Long.  Usually cute and petite, sometimes gaudy or garish, and occasionally cheap pieces of junk, traditional "ladies' guns" have not consistently demonstrated the effectiveness and reliability necessary for self defense.  Sadly, many ladies have had these types of handguns foist upon them by well meaning
individuals who genuinely believed that women could neither handle nor appreciate the qualities of handguns that were beyond the scope of "ladies' guns".

Perhaps this is because of a problem that originates through a stereotypical view of women being fearful of guns and intimidated by their noise and recoil.  Hence the solution is something cute that does not kick very much.  If there is merit to this solution, there are men who should be carrying "ladies' guns" for their are many who are intimidated by noise and recoil.  Conversely, many ladies are excellent shots, proficient with a wide variety of firearms, including those of large caliber that produce heavy recoil.

For defensive purposes, the best "lady's gun" is a handgun that matches the specific needs and the level of proficiency of the woman who will use it.  While gender might influence these requirements to some degree (e.g. what is most effectively concealed within specific wardrobe requirements, what handgun best fits smaller hands, what handgun is user friendly to shorter fingers, etc.), it is not a primary determining factor. The best "lady's gun" must meet the general requirements necessary for any defensive handgun: it must be reliable, concealable (if necessary), provide reasonable stopping power, and be of a design that the shooter consistently operates safely, accurately, and effectively (see "What is the Best Handgun for Concealed Carry?").